KETCHIKAN GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Raft into the Tongass: Coastal Wildlife and Old‑Growth Trails on Ketchikan’s Rainforest Island Adventure
A roughly 4-hour guided motorized‑raft cruise and shore hike to a remote Tongass island — this guide explains what to expect, what’s included, and how to prepare.
Raft into the Tongass: Coastal Wildlife and Old‑Growth Trails on Ketchikan’s Rainforest Island Adventure.
The Rainforest Island Adventure steers a rigid inflatable raft along Clover Passage and deposits you on a remote Tongass islet for a short, interpretive hike through old‑growth forest to a secluded beach, with stops to scan for marine life and bald eagles along the way.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Coastal marine life and bald eagles
The coastal cruise offers close‑up chances to spot whales, Stellar sea lions, harbor seals, porpoise and migrating seabirds, with bald eagles commonly seen along the route.
Old‑growth Tongass and living cultural history
Onshore, a one‑mile, mostly boardwalk trail winds through ancient stands of Western red and yellow cedar and Sitka spruce; guides interpret the botany and the cultural uses of these species by Alaska Native communities.
Secluded beach, boardwalk trail and campfire snack
After the hike along a gently sloped, well‑maintained path you gather by a campfire for an Alaskan‑style snack before re‑boarding for the return cruise.
What the day feels like
How the day moves
Expect a brisk motorized ride along the coast to a remote island, a guided walk through unspoiled Tongass rainforest on a boardwalked, gently sloped trail, a quiet stretch on a secluded beach and a relaxed snack by the campfire before returning to the dock.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this excursion suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Approximately a 4‑hour excursion with multiple daily departures from late April through mid‑October to accommodate cruise and tour schedules; the trip runs in most weather conditions.
Dress in warm layers and be prepared for inclement weather; raingear is provided but guests are encouraged to bring their own for comfort. Bring a camera and binoculars.
The tour includes round‑trip transportation from the dock, use of quality raingear and life jackets, plus a snack and beverages.
Moderate to good physical condition is necessary; the trail has a gradual slope, limited restroom facilities are available, and children must meet weight and supervision requirements for life jackets.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Rainforest Island Adventure?
The excursion is approximately 4 hours in duration.
What wildlife might we see?
Guests may see whales, Stellar sea lions, harbor seals, porpoise, bald eagles and migrating seabirds along the coastal cruise and onshore areas.
Are there age or weight restrictions for children?
All children must weigh at least 40 pounds to participate and fit into required life jackets; children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult, and guests aged 13–17 need a signed parental consent form if unaccompanied.
What should I wear and bring?
Dress in warm layers and be prepared for inclement weather; raingear and life jackets are provided, though guests are encouraged to bring their own raingear. Bring a camera and binoculars for wildlife viewing.
Are restroom facilities available?
Restroom facilities are limited on this excursion.
When does the tour operate during the year?
The operator runs multiple daily departures from late April through mid‑October to match cruise and tour schedules.