Wilderness Landing — Attraction in Hoonah

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to roll through a forest straight out of a Tolkien novel—with a splash of Discovery Channel—you need to hop aboard the Mountaintop Forest tram in Icy Strait Point. The journey begins with a swoop up the mountain on a gondola so smooth, it feels like nature’s own elevator. At the summit, you trade wires for wheels as a breezy, open-air tram glides through a cathedral of towering spruce and moss-draped magic. It's lush, it's peaceful, and yes—there’s a non-zero chance a bear might photobomb your selfie (just wave politely). Your local guide isn't just a fact machine—they're a forest storyteller, sharing centuries-old Tlingit legends while casually pointing out “Devil’s Club,” a spiky shrub with a misleading name and surprisingly wholesome uses. You’ll pause at mirror-like ponds, cruise past whispering muskegs, and probably say “wow” at least six times. This isn’t your average tour—it’s a full-sensory date with the Alaskan wild. There’s mist in the air, pine in your lungs, and that oddly specific happiness that comes from riding a tram where Wi-Fi can’t find you. Bottom line? You’ll leave with a camera full of forest and a heart full of wonder. Just don’t forget bug spray…and maybe a bear...

Beautiful scenery, be it sun shine or raining. The gondolas were a fun ride up to the peak and covered a wide view of the forest area and surrounding waters from the Port. The trail at the top of the peak can be a bit of trouble for those with walking or breathing disabilities, so do take note. Especially during the colder days, like when I visited. They do have a purchasable wilderness ride as an alternative at the top of the peak, but I'm sure you'll need to buy tickets at either port. The park staff were well prepared for emergencies as this is bear country l, should one be encountered. The cannery was also a fun shopping/dining area if you chose to avoid the high up areas of the park. Besides the cannery and buildings at yhr port, this place is not for those with fears of height or unable to do treks without...

was pleasantly surprised at visiting Icy Strait Point and Wilderness Landing. I took the Gondola and Tram Excursion. I watched the fast moving Zipline pass over my head. Once you reach the pier, one takes a Gondola to an area where you pick up another Gondola to reach the tram to tour the rain forest. Before you ride the higher Gondola, you may shop, and sit around a fire and listen to music while drinking or eating food. Then you take a longer Gondola to a higher level where you catch the tram. The tram is a guided ridden tour around the rain forest. Dave, our guide, was knowledgeable, friendly and knew the history of the Island, spoke and pointed out the edible and herbal plants. Overall everyone was friendly, and I enjoyed learning about the culture of the people and the plants/trees...