Questions Asked
Frequently
Some of the most commonly asked questions about our tours. Don’t see your question; reach out!
Top Rated Off-Road Tours Close to Anchorage!
“We had a blast! It was the most fun and exhilarating ATV ride my family and I have been on.” Eli A.
We are located in Palmer, Alaska, just 45 minutes from downtown Anchorage.
Check-in for your off road adventure is right at the trail head; a big public lot next to the Jim Creek Recreational Campground
For directions on your phone, CLICK HERE.
Address and directions will be included with your confirmation.
Helmets, rain boots and safety glasses are provided by 49th State Motor Tours.
Make sure to wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty!
We recommend bringing a sweatshirt, hoodie or jacket in case you get chilly + extra socks in case your feet get wet.
You will want to have rain pants, rain jacket or waterproof layer with you just in case.
Sunblock, sunglasses and bug repellent is always recommended. Feel free to pack a small bag with snacks and water!
Drivers are asked to refrain from taking photos while vehicle is in motion but there will be many opportunities to stop and get photos of Alaska’s jaw dropping scenery. Your guide will be sure to stop at the best photo opportunity spots and we encourage everyone to bring a camera.
We urge all of our guests to pack electronic items in a waterproof bag.
You will be exposed to varying conditions from puddles, rivers, dirt & mud.
Our full day off-road tour includes a hot meal cooked on location by your guide for the day.
If you have any dietary restrictions please let us know ahead of time.
For the shorter, Knik River Trail Adventure you’re welcome to bring snacks & water! There are some awesome local restaurants we recommend for after your tour.
There are no minimum or maximum ages for our tour but guests should be able to handle rough and bumpy trail riding.
Anyone under the age of 18 must have a parent or legal guardian sign a release and accompany them on the tour.
Guests must be 18 or older to drive ATVs.
Guests who are 16 or 17 with a valid driver license are able to drive our Side by Sides with guide approval; Their parent or guardian must ride with them in a side-by-side.
CANCELLATION FEES
Call or email us 2 weeks or more before your tour and you will receive a 100% refund.
At least a week before the tour and you will receive a 50% refund. Less than a week, including no shows, no refund will be given.
If you need an exception to this policy for stand-by flights or a medical emergency please call.
Be aware, we rarely cancel for weather. If we do have to cancel a tour due to weather, mechanical failure or another unavoidable reason, you will receive a 100% refund of any monies and fees we have collected.
These cancellation policies only apply to 49th State Motor Tours fees.
We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to help pay for cancellation fees in the event that you aren’t able to participate in your adventure with us. If you have not purchased travel insurance and cannot make your reservation, please let us know as soon as possible to discuss options including rescheduling. We reserve the right to charge full cancellation fees for no call/no shows, so please make sure you call before your tour.
Riding ATVs is bouncy, dirty, and often wet. Adventurers with neck/back/joint injuries, heart concerns, or who experience seizures should consult with their doctor before participating in this activity.
It is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED that anyone who is pregnant or has had recent surgery not participate in this tour. Please keep in mind that this is a physical activity. Mobility requirements vary from day to day and trail to trail, but all require some mobility.
Riding an ATV on our tours does require some past ATV experience.
Our Side by Sides are fun for all and no prior off-road experience is necessary!
All tours start with an introduction to the machines so you’ll feel comfortable operating them.
Our machines are incredibly easy, automatic machines that most people can learn to operate in only a few minutes. Terrain varies by trail. If we ever get to a part of the trail that you are uncertain of, let your guide know. Your guide can pilot your machine through the obstacle and get you back to milder terrain. That is what we are here for.
If you book an ATV (or 4 wheeler) you will be the sole person on the machine.
If you have multiple people in your group and you book a Side by Side, one person can drive the whole time or if you choose you can swap spots/take turns driving at particular points in the day (anyone over the age of 16 with a valid drivers license and guide approval!).
Our tours run in all weather and weather tends to changed quickly here in Alaska. It’s best to be prepared for anything by wearing layers!
Yes! Maybe! No! Animals are not guaranteed – Moose, bald eagles and dall sheep are often spotted especially on our full day tour.
Helmets are required by law & we provide a variety of sizes!
Eye protection is mandatory – we provide protective eyewear.
Yes, a small camera/cell phone will fit in the glove compartment of the Side by Side ATV. We recommend that larger cameras stay with passenger and are covered with a jacket/shirt.
No activity is without risk. Off-roading is no exception. We like to say that off-roading is “safe if done safely” as a reminder that we need everyone on the adventure (including you) to be aware and acting safely.
During your adventure with us, you will cover hazardous terrain, encounter wildlife, and travel into the Alaskan wilderness. We ask that you follow the directions of your guide, stay on the trail, look out for your fellow adventurers and let your guide know if you see an unsafe condition develop.
In addition to having substantial experience, guides are trained in wilderness first aid and equipped with first aid supplies, GPS and an emergency beacon.
Is a waterproof layer included?
No. Ponchos are available for purchase prior to your tour if you do not have a waterproof layer.
Is food provided on the Knik River Trail Adventure?
No. The Knik River Trail Adventure is a short, fast paced introduction to Alaska off-roading.
When should I arrive for my tour?
We recommend planning on arriving 15 minutes prior to your tour start time.

