Under the Canopy: Exploring Ketchikan’s Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary
Walk ancient rainforest trails, study Tsimshian totems and fly the canopy in Tongass National Forest
You step off the damp boardwalk and the forest folds around you like a deep green conversation. Rain mists the needles and moss, beads on the shoulders of spruce and hemlock, and the air carries that singular smell of old growth — loam, salt, and a distant flash of ocean. At the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary, just outside the port town of Ketchikan, the Tongass National Forest does not whisper; it insists. Trails thread through a tilted world of cathedral trees and braided streams, while the estuary below shuffles with salmon and the bald eagles sit like punctuation marks on the horizon.
Trail Wisdom
Dress for drizzle
Bring a breathable waterproof shell; rain is frequent and makes trails slippery.
Secure your camera on the zipline
Use wrist straps or a chest harness—loose gear can fall when zipping between platforms.
Bring binoculars
Small optics reveal eagles on the estuary and bears below without disturbing wildlife.
Stay on boardwalks and trails
The estuary and peat soils are sensitive; off-trail travel damages habitat and hides hazards.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Historic sawmill site with totem-carving demonstrations
- •Tidal estuary viewpoints where salmon runs concentrate wildlife
Wildlife
Black bear, Bald eagle
Conservation Note
The sanctuary sits within Tongass National Forest, an old-growth coastal rainforest; guides emphasize staying on trails, respecting cultural sites and avoiding wildlife disturbance to minimize human impact.
The totem park at the sanctuary is the first Tsimshian totem pole park in the United States and features a monumental 40-foot pole alongside 17 additional carvings by the same artist.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Migratory birds, Early salmon runs, Fewer crowds
Challenges: Mud, Unpredictable weather
Spring brings movement to the estuary and active birds, but trails can be muddy and conditions variable.
summer
Best for: Stable daylight, Zipline and walking tours, Wildlife viewing
Challenges: Higher visitor numbers, Occasional rain
Long daylight and generally milder weather make summer the most popular season for guided tours and canopy rides.
fall
Best for: Salmon runs, Vivid foliage, Quieter trails
Challenges: Cooling temperatures, Earlier nightfall
Autumn sharpens the landscape—salmon pull predators to shorelines and colors deepen, but temperatures drop.
winter
Best for: Solitude, Storm-watching on the coast
Challenges: Limited services, Short daylight, cold wet conditions
Winter is quiet and dramatic but not ideal for most guided experiences; expect limited operations and cold, wet weather.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Waterproof shell jacketEssential
Keeps you dry and comfortable through common coastal rain and drizzle.
Sturdy hiking boots with good treadEssential
Protects ankles on uneven boardwalks and provides traction on mossy or wet surfaces.
Binoculars
Helps spot eagles, bears and estuary activity without disturbing wildlife.
Secure camera strap or chest harness
Prevents dropped gear when on the zipline and frees hands for safety.
Common Questions
How long is the Rainforest Sanctuary walking tour?
The small-group walking tour runs about 2.75 hours and includes boardwalk and trail sections, a totem park visit, and estuary viewpoints.
Is the zipline safe for beginners?
Yes — guides provide a full safety briefing, harnessing and instruction; the experience is designed for first-time zippers with no special skills required.
Can cruise passengers join these tours?
Yes — tours are timed for cruise ship schedules with options for pickup near the dock or downtown Ketchikan; allow ample time for boarding and transfer.
What wildlife might I see?
Common sightings include bald eagles, black bears near salmon runs, Sitka black-tailed deer and occasional marine mammals off the shore.
Are there age or weight limits for the zipline?
Yes — most operators set minimum age and maximum weight limits for safety; check specific tour policies when booking.
What should I wear?
Layered clothing with a waterproof outer, sturdy boots, and a hat; avoid loose straps on cameras for zipline days.
What to Pack
Waterproof jacket, sturdy hiking boots, binoculars, snacks/water — protection from rain, good footing, wildlife viewing and mid-hike energy.
Did You Know
The sanctuary’s totem park was the first Tsimshian totem pole park established in the United States and includes a 40-foot totem carved by a single artist, reflecting the region’s long Indigenous carving traditions.
Quick Travel Tips
Book shore excursions in advance; wear layers and waterproofs; carry small cash for souvenir purchases; allow extra time for transfers from the cruise dock.
Local Flavor
Ketchikan is a working coastal town with a strong Indigenous presence and a seafood-driven palate—expect smoked salmon, fresh halibut and small eateries that celebrate local catches alongside craftspeople who keep carving traditions alive.
Logistics Snapshot
Duration: 2.5–4 hrs; Difficulty: moderate; Meeting point: downtown Ketchikan or ship pier; Book ahead in summer; Bring rain gear and sturdy boots.
Sustainability Note
Support local Indigenous-led interpretation when possible, stay on designated trails, pack out waste and avoid feeding wildlife; these practices protect sensitive estuary and old-growth habitats.