Tongass National Forest Trek: Experience Old-Growth Rainforest and Rivers in Ketchikan
5.0
31 Ratings
Ketchikan
Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Tongass National Forest on a 3.6-mile hike through an old-growth rainforest. Discover waterfalls, serene rivers, and endangered forests with a small group of up to 7 guests.
Duration: 3 hours, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Tongass National Forest - Come join us on a lovely 3.6-mile roundtrip hike through an Alaska State Park into the Tongass National Forest. Enjoy a small group of up to 7 guests! First relax on the 40-minute scenic drive to the end of the road. Then hike an improved gravel trail alongside a river with glimpses of waterfalls. Walk through a magical old-growth rainforest displaying impressive specimens of Sitka spruce and western red cedar.

Besides some stairs at the beginning of the hike, the trail flattens out and winds along the river valley below a ridge. 1 mile down the trail, our destination is a stone bench beside a serene bow in the river, where we can pause and enjoy one another and the peace and quiet.

This tour is led by owner and operator, Tongass Teague. Enjoy connecting with him, each other, and the wilderness of Southeast Alaska. Ask about how to practice mindfulness on the hike and in other areas of your life! Ask about our endangered old-growth forests and how to protect them!

What's Included
  • Private transportation
  • Bottled water
  • Entry/Admission to Alaska State Park and Tongass National Forest
  • In-vehicle air conditioning
  • Backpacks and trekking poles if needed
What's Not Included
  • On-board restrooms
  • On-board WiFi
Additional Information

Embark on a beautiful 3.6-mile roundtrip hike through an Alaska State Park into the Tongass National Forest, accompanied by a small group of no more than 7 participants! Start off by relaxing during a picturesque 40-minute drive to the road’s end. From here, we’ll traverse a well-kept gravel path that follows a river, offering glimpses of cascading waterfalls. Stroll through a captivating old-growth rainforest showcasing stunning specimens of Sitka spruce and western red cedar outlining the trail.

Except for a few steps at the hike’s onset, the trail proceeds to flatten and meanders alongside the river basin, beneath a range. One mile into the hike, a stone bench by a tranquil curve in the river marks our spot for a pause to savor the camaraderie and the stillness around us.

The tour is guided by the owner and operator, Tongass Teague. Relish in your connection with him, the group, and the untouched wilds of Southeast Alaska. Feel free to inquire about mindful practices or about our endangered old-growth forests and ways to safeguard them!

  • MUST WEAR FACE MASKS IN VEHICLE DURING TRANSPORTATION
Location
Tongass National Forest
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(31 Ratings)
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Seaside52957016255
Jun 1, 2024
Wonderful afternoon hike! - My husband and I had a great afternoon hike with Teague! He’s a very patient and informative guide. The forest was beautiful. We highly recommend the Ketchikan Old Growth Creek Trek if you are visiting the area.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Barbaragb8692fw
May 20, 2024
GREAT day on the Magical Old-Growth Creek Trek - Last week my hubby and I enjoyed one of our best days hiking in nature. We were guided by Tongass Teague LLC. Teague was our professional, friendly and gentle-souled hiking guide. He showed us the awesomeness of Ketchikan's natural wonders along the Old Growth Creek hiking trail. Something amazing happened; nature was patiently waiting to share with us her lushness and her harmonious musical sounds that occur between flora and fauna. It's all there, waiting for you, too. The only thing that is asked of us, is to be still, be present and be open to take in the splendor of nature. HIGHLY RECOMMEND. This is a great hike for multi-generations
Review provided by Tripadvisor
168alannap
Apr 30, 2024
Memorable hike and wonderful experience! - My husband and I booked the "Magical Old-Growth Creek Trek" with Teague during the last week of April 2024, and it was an experience we will cherish forever. From the moment we met him, Teague exuded warmth and enthusiasm for sharing the wonders of Alaska's wilderness. Pick-up was simple, and he text us beforehand to be sure we felt comfortable with directions. He met us right off the boat, and ensured everyone had water and rain gear. He even served some hot tea during a break, which was incredibly thoughtful and fun. Throughout the hike, Teague proved to be not only a knowledgeable guide but also a passionate educator. His insights into the flora, fauna, and ecology of the forest enriched our understanding of this remarkable ecosystem. Every step of the way, he shared fascinating tidbits and anecdotes, making the journey not just scenic but also intellectually stimulating. Our group included a family with a youngster who easily made the trek. His genuine enthusiasm for sharing his love of Alaska was infectious. Wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone seeking an unforgettable walk in the Last Frontier. Thank you, Teague!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Kmonfalcone
Oct 19, 2023
Tongass Magic in Ketchikan - My 7 year old daughter and I went on this hike in October 2023. It was beautiful. The guide picked us up at our cruise ship port, and was prepared with a booster seat, masks, water and ponchos. Could not have been easier. His vehicle was cleaner than mine ever will be (Ha!) in addition to his knowledge, he graciously took photos, offered us mint tea at a break, and was overall very attentive and kind.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ernieb869
Sep 22, 2023
Great way to explore the wilderness! - We really enjoyed this tour and highly recommended for going off the beaten path and enjoying the beautiful Tongass forest. Our guide Teague was excellent and very knowledgeable showing us some amazing trees and scenic points on our hike. He was very friendly and very chill person making the hike most enjoyable. A must do when you visit Ketchikan!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
N4199sqchrise
Sep 20, 2023
Awesome hike - I highly recommend Teague. Took us on a hike through the rainforest. Very knowledgeable and was a great guide.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Luvsoregon
Aug 24, 2023
Beautiful hike and friendly guide - Beautiful morning hike. We loved the hike and really enjoyed Teague. It was a nice break from the standard cruise excursion.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Robin
Aug 14, 2023
A perfect hike through the rainforest - The reviews don't lie. We came across Teague after noting being super excited with the cruise ship excursion (Or they booked up super fast) and I'm so happy we ended up hiking with him. Finding the pick up point was easy and then we got to have a private hike down Lunch Creek trail. Had lots of information for us in the area, forest, and history. Got to see Salmon, seals, and eagles so 100% a win of a hike and trip. Requested to get dropped off at Creek Street then just walked/shopped our way back to ship.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
372marciei
Aug 13, 2023
Fun and stimulating - This was just a wonderful hike into the majestic Tongass National Forest with Teague. It was just challenging enough to be fun, and we learned a lot about the forest and the region. Teague was such an engaging guide!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Kim_f
Aug 5, 2023
Great tour! - Beautiful scenery from the forest to the ocean. Teague was a great guide. I would certainly do it again!
Review provided by Viator
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up to 7 guests
1 Adult
June 2024
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