Is the trail suitable for children?

Yes, the trail is suitable for children comfortable with moderate hikes and uneven terrain.

What is the best time of year to do this trek?

Summer offers the clearest weather and best views, but spring and fall also provide unique scenery and wildlife opportunities.

Are there any difficult sections?

The trail is generally moderate, with some rocky and uneven areas, but no technical skills are required.

Can I see wildlife during the trek?

Yes, chances are good to see eagles, black bears, and other local fauna in their natural habitat.

Is there a maximum group size?

Yes, tours are limited to small groups of up to 7 guests for an intimate experience.

What should I bring on the hike?

Bring sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing, rain gear, water, and snacks for comfort and safety.

Ketchikan Mountain Lake Trek with Tongass Teague LLC

Ketchikan, a vibrant port city in Southeast Alaska, serves as the gateway to towering rainforests and rugged mountain terrain. Among its most captivating offerings is the Ketchikan Mountain Lake Trek to Avalanche Chute, guided by Tongass Teague LLC. This 4-mile round-trip hike immerses adventurers in the region’s ancient forests and panoramic mountain vistas, making it a perfect day trip for those seeking both natural beauty and historical insight.

The trek begins in lush, old-growth rainforest where moss-draped Sitka spruce and western hemlock towers dominate the landscape. As hikers ascend, they encounter the striking features of the terrain—crystal-clear mountain lakes and the dramatic slopes of the Avalanche Chute, a steep, snow-fed gully that has shaped the area's geological history. Along the way, guides share stories about the local flora: devil’s club and salal, and fauna like black bears and bald eagles that frequent these forests. The trail offers a dynamic mix of lush greenery, rocky outcrops, and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and waterways.

What makes Tongass Teague stand out is their intimate small-group setting—up to seven guests—ensuring a personalized experience where nature and history intertwine seamlessly. This guided trek not only offers breathtaking scenery but also educates on Southeast Alaska’s logging heritage, connecting visitors to the region's cultural roots.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a curious traveler, this trek promises both adventure and revelation. It’s an ideal way to witness the raw beauty of the Tongass National Forest while gaining insight into the area’s geological and logging history. Prepare to be inspired by Alaska’s wilderness, guided by experts dedicated to conservation and storytelling in one of America’s most extraordinary national landscapes.

About Tongass Teague LLC

Tongass Teague LLC is a Ketchikan, Alaska guide company offering owner-led backcountry and hiking tours in the Tongass National Forest. Founded and operated by Tongass Teague, the business runs small-group and private experiences that highlight Southeast Alaska’s landscapes, ecology, and logging history.

Tours include guided 4x4 SUV drives that leave the pavement for mountain dirt roads and elevated viewpoints, two scenic mountain-lake treks that lead to an avalanche chute, a four-hour Alpine Overlook Adventure Trek, and fully customizable private excursions for photography, totem-pole viewing, or intimate ceremonies such as waterfall-front wedding moments. Each itinerary emphasizes education about local flora and fauna, photo stops, and respectful access to cherished trails.

Group sizes are intentionally limited — some hikes accept no more than seven guests — and many offerings are private by design, allowing a personalized pace and stronger connection to the wilderness. Guides focus on interpretive narration about Sitka spruce forests, wildlife sightings, and the area’s complicated logging past, while underscoring conservation considerations for the Tongass.

Logistics are straightforward for Ketchikan visitors: tours operate from local meeting points and vary in length from two-hour SUV drives to four-hour alpine treks. Tongass Teague LLC presents an alternative to typical sightseeing by combining backcountry driving, accessible trail hiking, and custom private experiences that prioritize safety, local knowledge, and meaningful time outdoors in Southeast Alaska. Offerings suit fit hikers, photographers, couples, and small families seeking wilderness access and private ceremony locations. All tours include guided interpretation, photo opportunities, and thoughtful pacing for safety and enjoyment. guests.