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Misty Fjords National Monument wilderness guide
National Monument · AK

Misty Fjords National Monument

Misty Fjords National Monument is a striking wilderness area in Southeast Alaska, renowned for its towering cliffs, deep fjords, and lush rainforests, offering an awe-inspiring natural experience.

National Monument2,294,3431+ Trails

Designation

National Monument

Total Wilderness Area

2,294,343

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Misty Fjords National Monument

Misty Fjords National Monument is a striking wilderness area in Southeast Alaska, renowned for its towering cliffs, deep fjords, and lush rainforests, offering an awe-inspiring natural experience.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located in the Tongass National Forest, Misty Fjords National Monument covers over two million acres and provides visitors with breathtaking views of natural granite cliffs, dramatic fjords, and dense forest landscapes. This national monument was designated in 1978 and showcases the transformative power of glacial activity, which sculpted its spectacular features over millennia. The monument is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for kayaking, hiking, and scenic flights that reveal its stunning vistas. Its ecology is rich and varied, home to coastal temperate rainforests that support diverse wildlife including brown bears, mountain goats, and bald eagles. Visitors can explore landmarks such as Punchbowl Cove, Rudyerd Bay, and the iconic New Eddystone Rock, a volcanic plug that rises dramatically from the waters. Misty Fjords is accessible mainly by boat or small plane, providing a sense of remoteness and pristine wilderness appeal.

Field Guide · National Monument
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Misty Fjords National Monument

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Misty Fjords National Monument★ 9.2⌖ 1 miFlightseeing
Misty Fjords National Monument

Misty Fjords National Monument

Explore the breathtaking Misty Fjords National Monument, accessible by boat from Ketchikan, AK. Known for its wildlife and dramatic landscapes, this remote area is best visited in summer for flightseeing, kayaking, and hiking adventures.

FlightseeingView Details→
Scenic Hiking at Dude Mountain Trailhead, Ketchikan, Alaska★ 7.8⌖ 40 miHiking
Dude Mountain Trailhead

Scenic Hiking at Dude Mountain Trailhead, Ketchikan, Alaska

Located near Ketchikan, Alaska, Dude Mountain Trailhead offers a moderately challenging 1.5-mile route with rocky and steep terrain. Enjoy wildlife sightings, panoramic views, and diverse forest landscapes. Best visited late spring to early fall with sturdy boots and insect repellent recommended.

Wildlife Viewing & Scenic Walks at Herring Cove, Ketchikan★ 8.3⌖ 41 miWildlife Watching
Herring Cove

Wildlife Viewing & Scenic Walks at Herring Cove, Ketchikan

Herring Cove near Ketchikan, Alaska, offers easy access to raised boardwalks through wetland and forest areas with excellent wildlife viewing. Visit late July to early September for the best chance to see bears and eagles during salmon runs. Enjoy nature walks and cultural workshops in this calm coastal setting.

Wildlife WatchingView Details→
Scenic Hiking at Connell Lake Trail near Ketchikan, Alaska★ 7.2⌖ 42 miHiking
Connell Lake Trail

Scenic Hiking at Connell Lake Trail near Ketchikan, Alaska

Connell Lake Trail near Ketchikan, Alaska features an easy under 5-mile round trip hike through forest and alongside a lake. Visitors enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and e-biking on mixed terrain paths with boardwalks and bridges. Best visited late spring to early fall. Slippery surfaces possible in wet weather.

Hiking Adventure at Deer Mountain Trailhead, Ketchikan, Alaska★ 8.5⌖ 44 miHiking
Deer Mountain Trailhead

Hiking Adventure at Deer Mountain Trailhead, Ketchikan, Alaska

This 7.4-mile roundtrip trailhead near Ketchikan, Alaska, offers moderate hiking through rainforest to scenic summit views. Popular for wildlife watching and photography, best visited late spring to early fall. Bring waterproof gear and start early for a full day adventure.

Scenic Hiking at Ward Lake Nature Trailhead, Ketchikan, Alaska★ 7.2⌖ 44 miHiking
Ward Lake Nature Trailhead

Scenic Hiking at Ward Lake Nature Trailhead, Ketchikan, Alaska

Explore the easy, flat loop trail around Ward Lake near Ketchikan, Alaska. Ideal for families and birdwatchers, this peaceful hike offers lake views, a charming suspension bridge, and native wildlife sightings. Best visited May through September for mild weather and lush greenery.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Punchbowl Cove with its stunning glacier-carved walls✦ Rudyerd Bay offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities✦ New Eddystone Rock's volcanic formation✦ Remote lakes accessible by kayak or floatplane
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Misty Fjords National Monument

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Misty Fjords National Monument.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No permits or fees required for entry.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Misty Fjords National Monument

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

No formal campgrounds

Camping is dispersed and allowed in backcountry areas; requires preparation and adherence to Leave No Trace principles.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Misty Fjords National Monument

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Hyder
⌖ 30.36 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hyder, Alaska

A remote Alaskan gateway known for rugged wilderness, abundant wildlife, and authentic off-the-grid adventures where natural beauty meets cross-border charm.

Summer to early FallExplore Town
Saxman
⌖ 43.78 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Saxman, Alaska

A culturally rich coastal village offering unique outdoor activities set against Alaska’s temperate rainforest and rugged shoreline.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Ward Cove
⌖ 45.21 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ward Cove, Alaska

A tranquil coastal retreat known for pristine waters and nearby wilderness, perfect for water-based and quiet outdoor adventures in Southeast Alaska.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Metlakatla
⌖ 51.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Metlakatla, Alaska

A remote Alaskan coastal community offering tranquil wilderness access and rich cultural heritage in the Tongass National Forest region.

Late spring to early fallExplore Town
Thorne Bay
⌖ 72.57 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Thorne Bay, Alaska

A remote Alaskan coastal town offering rugged wilderness adventures in the temperate rainforest with abundant wildlife and pristine waterways.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Lax Kw’alaams
⌖ 77.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lax Kw’alaams, British Columbia

A remote coastal community offering rich Indigenous culture, rugged wilderness, and pristine marine environments perfect for outdoor activities off the beaten path.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Misty Fjords National Monument

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Ketchikan Private Tour: Totem Parks, Scenic Trails & Drone PhotographyKetchikan, Alaska · 33.42 mi away
Trails & Outdoor Adventures· Take A Hike

Ketchikan Private Tour: Totem Parks, Scenic Trails & Drone Photography

Short on time but hungry for real place? This three-hour Custom Private Tour in Ketchikan pairs totem parks, temperate rainforest trails and shoreline viewpoints with DSLR and drone photography for unforgettable coastal images. Small groups and permit-backed access make this a perfect, flexible visit for photographers and families.

3 hours

Explore this trip

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.