Best Tongass National Forest Day Trips & Things to Do

Stretching across nearly 17 million acres in Southeast Alaska, Tongass National Forest is the largest intact temperate rainforest in the world, offering travelers an unparalleled wilderness experience. Home to glacially carved fjords, towering cedar trees, and vibrant marine life, it encompasses iconic areas like Admiralty Island - known as the "Fortress of the Bears" - and the historic town of Kake, a gateway to ancient Tlingit cultural sites. Visitors can kayak through Tracy Arm’s ice-filled waters, hike the scenic trails of Misty Fjords, or spot humpback whales and bald eagles in Endicott Arm. With its vast network of waterways, remote islands, and pristine old-growth stands, Tongass invites adventure while remaining a vital sanctuary for Alaska’s natural and cultural heritage.