Alaska Wild Guides
Our Story
We started Alaska Wild Guides with weathered hands and hearts full of adventure, right here in the rugged wilderness that shaped us. From our workshop in Girdwood, surrounded by decades of well-maintained snowmobiles and maps of remote Alaskan terrain, we've built something special. Every throttle cable we've adjusted, every trail we've blazed, and every guest we've guided has been driven by one simple belief: Alaska's wilderness deserves to be experienced authentically. Our team brings years of backcountry expertise to every expedition, whether it's snowmobiling under the northern lights in Talkeetna or embarking on our signature 5-day Snow Safari. We're not just tour operators – we're Alaskan adventurers sharing the untamed spirit that calls this incredible landscape home. When you ride with us, you're experiencing Alaska through the eyes of those who live and breathe its wild beauty every single day.
Our Team
Derek & Amanda - Owners
Born and raised in Alaska, it could be said that Alaska runs through their blood. Derek has been guiding in Alaska for over 28 years and is enjoying passing his knowledge to the next generation of guides. Amanda had a background in finance and takes care of the companies behind the scenes operations.
Fred - Manager
For the past eight years, I’ve been chasing adventure—guiding snowmobiles, jet skis, mountaineering, and kayaking across Alaska and Colorado. I’m happiest outside and love helping people discover the wild in a whole new way!
Bryce - Lead Jet Ski Guide
I’m Bryce Barnes, born and raised in Maine, and I moved to Alaska in 2022 to pursue a mountain guiding career. Since then, I’ve guided canoeing, hiking, glacier and ice climbing, and I’m heading into my second season of jet ski guiding. In my free time, I’m usually biking, camping, or hiking to glaciers—and in the winter, it’s all about snowboarding, ice climbing, and building terrain parks.
Jake - Lead Snowmobile Guide
Jake is a life long Alaskan that loves adventure and being in the great outdoors. When he's not guiding or maintaining snow machines he can be found out on the Frisbee Golf Coarse.
Our Mission
At Alaska Wild Guides, we believe the Last Frontier should be experienced authentically, safely, and with deep respect for its pristine wilderness. Our mission is simple: to create transformative adventures that connect you with Alaska's raw beauty while ensuring every guest feels confident, prepared, and inspired. We're not just tour operators—we're passionate Alaskan guides who live and breathe this incredible landscape year-round. From the moment you join us, whether it's snowmobiling under touring mountains or exploring backcountry trails, you'll experience the difference that local expertise and genuine care make. We provide comprehensive safety training, top-quality gear, and small group experiences that prioritize your comfort and wonder. Our commitment extends beyond the adventure itself—we're dedicated to responsible wilderness practices that preserve Alaska's majesty for future generations. When you choose Alaska Wild Guides, you're choosing guides who treat every guest like family and every adventure as an opportunity to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Why Choose Alaska Wild Guides?
Family-owned and operated by lifelong Alaskans, we deliver intimate wilderness experiences with small groups and unmatched local expertise across Alaska's most spectacular locations.
Local Experts
Born and raised Alaskans guide you through pristine wilderness with generations of backcountry knowledge.
Small Groups
Intimate tours cover more ground and expose you to Alaska's unique wonders better than anyone.
Family Owned
Personal wilderness experiences delivered by passionate owners who live and breathe Alaska's wild beauty.
Book Your Alaska Adventure.
Limited spots available for snowmobiling and Jet Ski tours - secure your wilderness experience today