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Discover the peaceful beauty of Ward Creek Trail in Tongass National Forest with Island Girl Hiking Company. This beginner-friendly trek offers scenic views and wildlife sightings in a setting perfect for slowing down and reconnecting with nature. Read on to learn what makes this Alaskan adventure a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts.
Discover the peaceful beauty of Ward Creek Trail in Tongass National Forest with Island Girl Hiking Company. This beginner-friendly trek offers scenic views and wildlife sightings in a setting perfect for slowing down and reconnecting with nature. Read on to learn what makes this Alaskan adventure a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts.
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Operated by Island Girl Hiking Company · Ketchikan, Alaska
Standing at the edge of Tongass National Forest in Ketchikan, the Ward Creek Trail offers a serene yet invigorating journey through lush Alaskan wilderness. Led by owner Dawn, Island Girl Hiking Company crafts a gentle, accessible hike perfect for those seeking backcountry beauty without the intensity of tougher terrain. The trail, winding alongside Ward Creek, features a mixture of towering Sitka spruce and cedar trees, their moss-draped branches creating a canopy that filters dappled sunlight onto the forest floor. During the trek, hikers pass a small waterfall cascading over rocks—a perfect spot for a water break or a quick snap of the vibrant greenery. The route is dotted with signs of local wildlife: tracks in the mud, distant calls of birds, and perhaps a glimpse of a deer or an otter by the creek. Founded in a region famed for its wilderness and cultural history, Island Girl Hiking Co. emphasizes conservation, ensuring the pristine environment remains unspoiled for future adventurers.
This trail’s easy terrain makes it ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and families wanting to connect with Alaska’s iconic landscape. Whether you're capturing reflection shots in the creek, admiring the sweeping mountain views, or simply breathing in the crisp forest air, the Ward Creek Trail leaves visitors refreshed and inspired. Its manageable length (around 2 miles round-trip) allows for a leisurely pace, making it suitable for all fitness levels. Dawn’s guided hikes also include educational insights into local flora, fauna, and conservation efforts, enriching your outdoor experience.
Perfect as a day trip from Ketchikan, this outing invites visitors to slow down and soak in Alaska’s quiet majesty without the need for technical skills or strenuous exertion. Dress comfortably, bring your camera, and enjoy the gentle rhythm of nature surrounded by a landscape that feels truly wild yet welcoming.
easy.
2 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels, including beginners and families
Yes, the Ward Creek Trail is easy and family-friendly, making it perfect for children and beginners.
The trail is primarily natural with minimal facilities, so plan to bring your own water and snacks.
Wildlife sightings are common, especially birds, otters, and deer, but cannot be guaranteed.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography and quieter wildlife activity.
Yes, but winter conditions can make access more challenging, so check local weather and trail conditions.
Guided hikes with Island Girl Hiking Co. are available, but the trail is easy enough for self-guided visits.
The trail and surrounding forest have long been a vital part of local indigenous cultures and histories.
Island Girl Hiking Co. prioritizes Leave No Trace principles to preserve the region’s pristine wilderness.
Island Girl Hiking Company is a Ketchikan, Alaska–based guide service offering guided hikes in the Tongass National Forest. Led by owner Dawn, the company runs personalized Private/Small Group Hike options and named trail hikes on Connell Lake, Ward Creek, and Lunch Creek. Trips emphasize connection to Southeast Alaska’s landscapes, with interpretation focused on local ecology and conservation. Hike options include an easy-to-moderate Connell Lake Trail Hike with lake and mountain views, a Ward Creek Trail Hike suited for photographers and nature lovers, and a longer Lunch Creek Trail Hike that typically lasts 3.5 to 4 hours and features waterfalls and old-growth trees. Private and small-group excursions allow travelers to set pace, enjoy focused interpretation, and share the experience with family or friends. Dawn leads each outing and provides a light snack on select hikes, giving guests time to enjoy fresh air and scenery. Island Girl Hiking Company highlights conservation education during outings to foster respect for the Tongass National Forest and Southeast Alaska habitats. Activities are owner-guided and tailored to group size and ability. The business operates from Ketchikan, making it accessible for visitors seeking local, guided hiking experiences near town. Travelers looking for personal attention, local trail knowledge, and opportunities to learn about Alaska’s temperate rainforest can choose Island Girl Hiking Company for guided day hikes around Ketchikan. Guided hikes are suitable for varying fitness levels, with options for easy to moderate walks and private pacing. Reservations are arranged through Island Girl Hiking Company in Ketchikan, ensuring local guide availability.
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