Soar Over Alaska’s Misty Fjords: A Floatplane Flight Through Towering Wilderness

Ketchikan•easy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2 hours total (including prep and transit)

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; no physical exertion required

Overview

Take to the skies over Misty Fjords National Monument on a floatplane tour from Ketchikan, Alaska, soaring above towering cliffs, glassy lakes, and rushing waterfalls. Experience Alaska’s largest national forest from a unique aerial perspective, combined with expert narration and guaranteed window seats.

Soar Over Alaska’s Misty Fjords: A Floatplane Flight Through Towering Wilderness

other

air-tour

wildlife

Select participants and date

Date

Tue, Nov 4

Travelers

The drone of the floatplane’s engine hums beneath the wings as you lift off from Ketchikan’s sheltered harbor, departing the bustling port for a journey into an otherworldly expanse: Misty Fjords National Monument. Out the window, the Tongass National Forest unfurls below — America’s largest national forest, a vast 17-million-acre playground of cliffs, emerald lakes, and waterfalls. Jagged cliffs thrust boldly skyward, carving sheer walls nearly 3,000 feet tall that dare the clouds to settle. Calm waters mirror vertical granite faces streaked with moss and lichen, while alpine lakes sparkle like scattered gems amid dense conifer stands.

Adventure Photos

Soar Over Alaska’s Misty Fjords: A Floatplane Flight Through Towering Wilderness photo 1

Adventure Tips

Dress in layers for coastal weather

Alaska’s coastal climate can shift quickly; bring wind and rain-resistant layers to stay comfortable before and after your flight.

Bring a camera with a zoom lens

Wildlife and distant cliffs often show best through zoom; a steady hand or stabilizer helps capture clear photos from the moving aircraft.

Confirm your departure time in advance

Morning and afternoon flights run daily, but times can vary — call ahead or check your booking to avoid missing your flight.

Arrive early to check in and prepare

Allow at least 15 minutes before boarding to complete safety briefings and load efficiently onto the floatplane.

Local Insights

Wildlife

Bald eagle
Black bear

History

Misty Fjords area has been historically significant to the Tlingit people who have long called these forests and waters home, rich in traditions linked to the land and sea.

Conservation

The region is protected as part of Tongass National Forest, where efforts focus on preserving pristine wilderness amid active sustainable forestry management.