What it's like
The Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary is a 40-acre temperate rainforest close to Ketchikan. Its hiking trails wind through hemlock, cedar and spruce, and salmon spawning streams run through the forest. It is a place to see how the Tongass looks at ground level.
A visit is a slow walk on a well-kept forest trail. The main route is about 3/4 mile, with gravel and an elevated boardwalk. Wildlife such as black bears, seals, deer, minks, martens and birds may appear, depending on the day and season. The Southeast Alaska Discovery Center on Main Street has exhibits on the rainforest if you want more background.
Good to know
- Ketchikan averages over 160 inches of rain a year, so bring rain gear and expect wet trails.
- Wheelchair access is possible but depends on weather. Heavy rain can make the trail hard to navigate, and no wheelchairs are provided on site.
- Summer rain is generally light and sporadic, with daytime highs in the high sixties F.
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 that go here
Prices are per person, booked with our partner, Shore Excursions Group.
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.
Margaret Creek Wildlife Observation Site
A Forest Service bear viewing site on Revillagigedo Island, where a rainforest trail leads to a platform over Margaret Creek. Visitors come to look for black bears, birds and salmon.
Southeast Alaska Discovery Center
A Forest Service visitor center in downtown Ketchikan, with exhibits on the Tongass rainforest, native cultures and wildlife. A good first stop in town.
Creek Street
Creek Street is a wooden boardwalk built on stilts above Ketchikan Creek, the most scenic stretch of downtown. Shops, galleries and old brothel buildings line the walk.
The same kind of day, elsewhere
Rainforest and jungle
