Rainforest Hike in the Tongass National Forest
A guided hike through America's Largest National Forest with a local naturalist
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Perfect for cruise passengers
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Duration: 2 Hours
$119/Adult
$90/Child
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3 Miles Traversed
Slight Incline/Decline
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Small Groups
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65+ 5-Star Reviews
Step Into the Tongass: The Largest Temperate Rainforest on Earth
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This isn’t a bus-window tour. Starting from downtown Sitka, your guide walks you straight into the Tongass National Forest — 17 million acres of old-growth spruce, hemlock, and cedar that make up the largest intact temperate rainforest on the planet.
Over two hours, you’ll hike well-maintained forest trails at an easy, conversational pace while your naturalist guide brings the ecosystem to life. You’ll learn to identify devil’s club, salmonberry, and blueberry along the trail. You’ll hear how the Tlingit people have used these forests for subsistence and foraging since time immemorial. And you’ll keep an eye out for bald eagles overhead and, in late summer, salmon spawning in the creeks below.
Your guide carries bear spray and gives a wilderness safety briefing before entering the forest. Snacks, bottled water, and trekking poles are provided. All you need is comfortable shoes and a layer for rain — this is a rainforest, after all.
Who this Hike is For
This is an easy-to-moderate hike on maintained gravel and boardwalk trails. No prior hiking experience needed. We take frequent stops to talk about what we’re seeing, so the pace is relaxed. It works well for families, couples, and solo travelers. If you can walk comfortably for about an hour, you’ll do great here.
Cruise passengers: this tour is timed to work with your ship schedule. We’ll have you back with time to spare.
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Before You Go
Meeting Point
Harrigan Centennial Hall, downtown Sitka. Look for the guide in red. Most cruise shuttles drop off here.
Cruise Passengers
Take the free shuttle from the cruise terminal. Reserve your shuttle at sitkadock.com.
What’s Included
Naturalist guide, bear safety gear, snacks (salmon jerky & local treats), bottled water, trekking poles on request.
What to Wear
Comfortable walking shoes (trail shoes or sneakers are fine). A rain layer — this is a rainforest. Dress in layers.
