Hidden in Southeast Alaska lies a place that feels almost untouched—where 17 million acres of dense forest stretch between mountain peaks, glacial icefields, and icy fjords. This isn’t just any wilderness. It's the Tongass National Forest—the largest temperate rain forest in the world. And it’s not in some remote, hard-to-reach corner of the planet. It’s in the United States.
What Makes Tongass Stand Out
Tongass is more than just a massive stretch of green on the map. With over 700 miles of hiking trails, 128 glaciers, and 17,000 miles of waterways, this rain forest is packed with raw natural beauty and teeming with wildlife. Brown bears, bald eagles, moose, and even flying squirrels call it home. It's also a vital ecosystem that supports five species of Pacific salmon and centuries-old Indigenous cultures like the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples.
Stretching across the Inside Passage, the region is dotted with islands that form the Alexander Archipelago. The waterways connecting these lands are perfect for wildlife cruises—expect sightings of humpback whales, sea lions, and sea otters. It’s not unusual to watch eagles swoop down for fish as your boat cuts through misty fjords.
Getting There and Getting Around
Instagram | momsgoodeats | Between May and September, most Tongass National Forest visitors arrive by cruise.
Most travelers arrive via cruise ships, especially between May and September. Ships stop in coastal towns like Juneau, Sitka, and Ketchikan—each offering a gateway to explore the rain forest. For those flying in, Juneau International Airport and Ketchikan International Airport are the main hubs, but boat or seaplane is often needed to reach deeper parts of the forest.
There’s no official entrance or entry fee, but the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center in Juneau and the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center in Ketchikan are good places to start. Here, you’ll find exhibits, short films, and park rangers available for guidance.
Quick tip: Cell service is spotty, so carry a physical map, pack layers, and don’t forget rain gear—this is a rain forest.
When to Visit
Alaska’s summer—roughly June to August—is when Tongass shines brightest, with temps between 40°F and 70°F. It’s also the busiest season, as cruise crowds peak. If you're looking for a quieter time, consider late spring or early fall. September sees the most rainfall, while November is perfect for whale watching during Sitka WhaleFest.
For those chasing the Northern Lights, you’ll need to head farther north. However, from August through April, there’s still a chance to catch a glimpse on particularly clear nights.
Must-Do Activities in Tongass Rain Forest
1. Bear Watching
Visit one of four U.S. Forest Service-managed bear observation sites. Permits may be required, but the chance to watch bears in the wild is well worth the prep.
2. Glacier Viewing
Whether it's by floatplane, boat, dog sled, or on foot, seeing a glacier up close is unforgettable. Mendenhall Glacier is a top pick, especially accessible from Juneau.
3. Whale Watching
Cruise tours through the Inside Passage are ideal for spotting marine wildlife. Humpbacks are frequent stars here, along with orcas, otters, and harbor seals.
4. Explore Wilderness Areas
Nineteen designated wilderness zones offer deep forest hikes, fishing, kayaking, and camping. Admiralty Island and Misty Fjords National Monuments are two of the most visited.
Hikes Worth the Trek
1. Mount Roberts Alpine Loop | A short but scenic trail accessed via the Goldbelt Tram in Juneau. Expect panoramic views and totem poles along the path.
2. East Glacier Loop | Start at Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center and take this moderate 3-mile loop for sweeping views of the glacier.
3. Perseverance Trail | Once a railway route, this 3 to 5-mile trail leads through old mining zones and forested terrain.
4. Indian River Trail | A lush hike near Sitka that ends at a dramatic waterfall, reachable by the local Ride bus.
Where to Stay Near the Forest
1. Raven’s Roost Cabin
www.recreation.gov | Reach Raven's Roost Cabin near Petersburg by helicopter or trail for backcountry solitude.
Accessible only by helicopter or trail, this Forest Service cabin near Petersburg is ideal for backcountry solitude.
2. Mendenhall Campground
RVs and tents welcome with glacier views, flush toilets, drinking water, and fire pits. It’s a top pick for those wanting comfort without leaving nature.
3. Four Points by Sheraton Juneau
If modern comforts are your thing, this downtown hotel places you near restaurants, shops, and scenic waterfront walks.
4. Salmon Falls Fishing Resort
Located in Ketchikan, this resort pairs fishing tours with upscale accommodations and locally inspired meals.
Where to Eat Like a Local
1. Tracy’s Crab Shack (Juneau)
Famed for Alaskan king crab legs, crab bisque, and crab cakes—all served up waterfront.
2. Bush Pilot’s Lounge (Ketchikan)
Grab a seat by the window to watch seaplanes while enjoying a fresh seafood dinner and house-made desserts.
3. Campfire Kitchen (Sitka)
Inside Harbor Mountain Brewing Co., this spot offers wood-fired pizzas and local brews—try the reindeer hot dog for something uniquely Alaskan.
Why Tongass Belongs on Your Bucket List
Alaska’s Tongass National Forest isn’t just big—it’s one of the most biodiverse and visually striking rainforests in the world. Whether you're hiking to waterfalls, cruising past breaching whales, or spotting bears from a safe distance, the experience offers a rare blend of adventure, culture, and raw natural wonder.
It’s a place where every step feels like a discovery, and every view tells a story shaped by centuries of wild growth and rich heritage.
