Tongass National Forest — Attraction in Kupreanof Island

My visit to the Tongass National Forest during the last week of May 2024 aboard the Royal Caribbean cruise ship, Brilliance of the Seas, was nothing short of extraordinary. The journey took me through the picturesque cities of Juneau, Haines, Ketchikan, and Sitka, each offering unique glimpses into the vast wonders of the most northern rainforest in the world. Borrowing a car through Turo was a brilliant decision, allowing me the flexibility to explore at my own pace and immerse myself in the rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty of this remarkable region.

Juneau: A Gateway to Serenity

Our first stop in Juneau set the tone for the entire adventure. The Mendenhall Glacier, with its striking blue ice, was a surreal sight. Driving through the lush, verdant forest, I encountered several totem poles that narrated the profound stories and traditions of the native Tlingit people. The Tongass National Forest in Juneau offered serene trails, pristine lakes, and a peaceful connection to nature that felt almost spiritual. The fresh, crisp air and the sounds of wildlife enhanced the sense of tranquility.

Haines: A Journey Through History

In Haines, the sense of history and cultural heritage was palpable. The Sheldon Museum and Cultural Center provided a deep dive into the local history, while the nearby Chilkoot Lake was perfect for a quiet afternoon picnic. The highlight, however, was the drive through the Haines Highway, where the forest opened up to stunning vistas of snow-capped mountains and expansive valleys. The totem poles here, intricately carved and meticulously maintained, stood as proud sentinels of the land’s heritage.

Ketchikan: The Totem Capital of the World

Ketchikan truly lived up to its reputation as the Totem Capital of the World. The Totem Heritage Center showcased an incredible collection of poles, each with unique designs and stories. A drive to Saxman Native Village was a must, where I was greeted with an impressive array of totem poles amidst the backdrop of the misty rainforest. The rainforest walk in Ketchikan was particularly memorable, with the dense canopy and vibrant undergrowth creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere. It was a magical blend of culture and nature, highlighting the deep connection between the people and their environment.

Sitka: A Harmonious Blend of Culture and Nature

Sitka, with its blend of Russian and Tlingit heritage, offered a unique cultural experience. The Sitka National Historical Park was a treasure trove of totem poles and historical artifacts. Walking through the forest trails, I marveled at the towering trees and the rich biodiversity that the Tongass is renowned for. The views from the top of the Castle Hill were breathtaking, providing a panoramic view of the forest meeting the sea. Sitka’s warm and welcoming community made the experience even more special, and the local cuisine was a delightful bonus.

Overall Experience

The Tongass National Forest, spanning these charming Alaskan cities, offered an unparalleled adventure. The combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and the freedom of exploring with a rental car made this trip an unforgettable experience. Each city provided a unique perspective of the forest, from the glaciers of Juneau to the totem poles of Ketchikan, and the historical richness of Haines and Sitka.

The Brilliance of the Seas provided a comfortable and luxurious base for this adventure, with excellent amenities and service that made each return to the ship feel like coming home. The seamless transition between ports and the breathtaking views from the ship enhanced the overall experience.

In summary, if you’re looking for an adventure that combines breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and the comfort of a world-class cruise, a trip to the Tongass National Forest on the Brilliance of the Seas is an absolute must. This journey through Alaska’s emerald gem has left an indelible mark on my heart, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking to experience the true essence of the...

This is the third National Forest I’ve hiked this year including Tonto National Forest. Both are busy with tourists and a buzz of active, diehard hikers to the every day tourist checking out the sights. Every person appreciates the beauty of nature and how awe inspiring our world is. I prefer the l lesser known trails but those are hard to come by as we keep sharing our love for this world and wanderlust of our naturally beautiful world.

Pro tip: I’ve been on two Alaskan cruises at the time of writing this review and prefer the up close views of glaciers from the ship than I was able to get of Mendenhall Glacier at this tourist spot. The waterfall was stupendous and worth the short one mile easy pathway hike. If you want up close glacier views, hire a private tour. If you want a path less traveled in national forests, start your hike further away from the popular trailheads and seasons....

Tongass National Forest boasts of first growth Sitka spruce and hemlock with some over 5 feet in diameter. You will find all kinds of unique flora and fauna. The wildlife around Hyder Alaska is unparalleled. As a Local I will say that it is totally worth it to come and see the bears catching the salmon. If you hike Titan Trail come prepared with bear spray. You should also come prepared with mosquito spray. You can also see a wolf catching I salmon in Fish Creek if you are very fortunate. The tongass National Forest has many bald eagles. Migratory Birds such as the white swan, Canadian geese, various ducks, and snow geese. Moose Pond is a great place to see these migratory Birds. This area is also known for many types of rare birds. Come to Hyder Alaska and don't forget to patronize the gift shops and talk to some locals. Many of us are happy to share first-hand knowledge of our...