Hiking in Ketchikan
Hiking around Ketchikan runs from easy lakeside strolls to a steep climb up Deer Mountain, which rises at the foot of town. Many of the trails start close to downtown, so the rainforest is a short walk from town. Expect rain and wet, muddy footing, and plan for layers.
Places to go
Tongass National Forest
Tongass National Forest is the large forest that surrounds Ketchikan. Its trails, backcountry roads and waters are open for hiking, cycling, paddling and fishing.
Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary
A 40-acre temperate rainforest near Ketchikan, with forest trails, salmon spawning streams and a boardwalk through hemlock, cedar and spruce.
Tours to book
Prices are per person, booked with our partner, Shore Excursions Group.
Small Group Ketchikan Salmon Cooking Class and Dining Experience
What to expect
Hiking here means trails through the Tongass National Forest, one of the largest temperate rainforests in the world. Some start right in town. The Rainbird Trail is 1.3 miles into the rainforest with a few short, steep climbs, and it can be reached from downtown or the University of Alaska Southeast campus. Trails farther out, such as the Carlanna Lake Trail, need a drive on gravel road.
A typical trail walk lasts two to three hours. Easy walks suit families and first-timers. The climb up Deer Mountain is strenuous and rewards you with wide views over town and the water. Many walks pass hemlock, cedar and spruce, and some follow salmon streams. Dress in layers, since the weather can turn from sunny to cold rain within an hour.
Where to go
- Deer Mountain. A mountain at the foot of town that can be hiked from Ketchikan. The climb is strenuous and offers spectacular views. At the edge of town, by walk.
- Rainbird Trail. A 1.3-mile trail into the rainforest with a few short, steep climbs. Quick access from downtown or the UAS campus. By walk. A trip that goes here: Wilderness Hike and Brew, 2 Hours 30 Minutes, $149 a person
- Carlanna Lake Trail. An easy 3-mile round-trip walk to a lake, good for a gentler hike in the forest. By gravel road from the end of Canyon Road. A trip that goes here: Tongass National Forest Scenic Lake Hike, 3 Hours, $285 a person
- Married Man's Way. A trail winding into the hills above Creek Street, once used by brothel patrons to escape police raids. Above Creek Street, close to downtown, by walk.
Getting there
Deer Mountain and Rainbird Trail can be reached on foot from downtown. Carlanna Lake Trail is reached by a gravel road from the end of Canyon Road, so most people go by taxi or with a guided tour.
When to go
Guided Tongass hikes run April to October. Summer rain is generally lighter and more sporadic than the rest of the year.
Good to know
- Pack rain gear and wear shoes that can handle wet, muddy trails.
- Dress in layers, since the weather can change quickly from warm and sunny to windy and cold.
- Allow extra time on the way back if you drive a gravel road.
- Bears can be active in the forest, so make noise on the trail and keep food and garbage put away.
Questions
Can you hike Deer Mountain from Ketchikan on your own?
Yes. Deer Mountain can be hiked straight from town, and the trailhead is at the edge of town, reached on foot. The climb is strenuous, so it suits experienced walkers who have time for the round trip.
What is the easiest hike near Ketchikan?
The Carlanna Lake Trail is an easy 3-mile round-trip walk to a lake. It is reached by a gravel road from the end of Canyon Road, so a taxi or guided tour is the usual way out.
Is there a hike I can do from downtown Ketchikan?
The Rainbird Trail is 1.3 miles into the rainforest, with a few short, steep climbs. It starts from downtown or the University of Alaska Southeast campus and is a quick way into the forest.
