The best walks and hikes around Ketchikan

Yes, Ketchikan has several accessible trails perfect for families. A great option is the Creek Street and Salmon Stairs Loop, a short walk through a historic area. For a nature-focused outing, the Ward Lake Trail is a popular, mostly flat 1-mile loop within the Tongass National Forest, ideal for all ages.

Hiking in the Tongass National Forest means you'll be in a temperate rainforest. Expect trails to be damp, with moss-covered trees and potentially muddy sections. The forest canopy is dense with Sitka spruce and western hemlock. Always wear waterproof footwear with good grip and carry rain gear, as weather can change quickly.

Absolutely. Waterfalls are a common feature of the landscape. While many are visible from boat or floatplane tours in areas like Misty Fjords National Monument, some trails lead to them. The Lunch Falls Trail is a short loop known for its beautiful waterfall views, offering a rewarding experience without a strenuous trek.

Many trails are suitable for a half-day adventure. The Rainbird Trail is a fantastic choice, offering great views of the town and Tongass Narrows in about an hour. It's a 2-mile (3.2 km) path that provides a full rainforest experience in a short amount of time.

The Deer Mountain trail is a challenging hike. While the route on komoot is about 4.9 miles (7.9 km) and takes around 3.5 hours, many hikers find it takes closer to 5-6 hours for the full round trip, especially when allowing time to enjoy the panoramic views from the top. It involves a significant elevation gain of over 2,500 feet.

The trails around Ketchikan are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Hikers frequently praise the lush, vibrant rainforest scenery and the well-maintained paths. The feeling of immersion in the vast Tongass National Forest is a recurring highlight in reviews.

Most trails in the Ketchikan area and the Tongass National Forest are dog-friendly, but they must be kept under control or on a leash, especially as you may encounter wildlife. Always check specific trailhead signage for any local restrictions and be sure to clean up after your pet.

Some trailheads, like the one for the Rainbird Trail, are accessible by walking from downtown, though it involves an uphill walk to get there. For trails further out, such as those in the Ward Lake Recreation Area (like Perseverance Lake and Connell Lake), you will need a car or a taxi as public transport options are limited.

The trails around Ketchikan offer excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. It's common to see bald eagles soaring overhead. On the forest floor, you might spot Sitka black-tailed deer. Black bears are also native to the area, so it's crucial to be bear-aware: make noise while you hike, carry bear spray, and know how to use it.

Yes, there are several loop trails. The Connell Lake Trail is a well-regarded 4-mile loop that takes you through classic Tongass rainforest scenery and around the lake. It's a great way to experience the area without having to backtrack on the same path.

Besides the individual routes, several areas are local favorites for hiking. The Deer Mountain Trailhead is the starting point for one of the region's most iconic and challenging hikes. For a more moderate and scenic lakeside experience, the Perseverance Lake Trail is highly praised for its well-maintained path and beautiful scenery. The Carlanna Lake Trail is another excellent, easy-to-navigate option leading to a picturesque mountain lake.

Given the region's nickname, 'The Liquid Sunshine State,' rain gear is essential. Pack a waterproof jacket and pants. Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good traction. It's also wise to bring layers of clothing, as temperatures can change with elevation and weather. Don't forget water, snacks, a map, and bear spray for safety.