KETCHIKAN WALKING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
A Quiet Ascent: Old‑Growth Rainforest, a Mountain Lake and the Avalanche Chute Above Ketchikan
A guided, small‑group 4‑mile roundtrip hike led by Tongass Teague that moves from lake shore trail through Sitka spruce forest to the base of an avalanche chute.
A Quiet Ascent: Old‑Growth Rainforest, a Mountain Lake and the Avalanche Chute Above Ketchikan.
Settle into a deliberately paced 4‑mile roundtrip hike on a cherished Ketchikan trail guided by Tongass Teague. The route threads an improved gravel lakeside path before climbing into an old‑growth Sitka spruce rainforest, delivering mountain views and a destination at the bottom of an avalanche chute where groups pause to sightsee and learn about local flora, fauna and logging history.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Old‑Growth Sitka Spruce
The ascent moves through an old‑growth rainforest featuring large specimens of Sitka spruce; the trail alternates improved tread and more natural rooty sections that reveal the forest’s size and history.
A Quiet Mountain Lake Shoreline
The initial mile follows an improved gravel trail alongside a forested mountain lake with plentiful picture stops where the water and tree line frame the approach to the climb.
Avalanche Chute Terminus
The hike culminates at the bottom of an avalanche chute—the tour’s destination and a favored viewpoint—where groups pause to sightsee and discuss local ecology and logging history.
What the day feels like
What the Trek Feels Like
Over roughly three hours you’ll load and drive briefly to the trailhead, walk an easy gravel mile beside a mountain lake, then transition onto a more natural tread of gravel, rocks and roots as you climb through old growth to the avalanche chute. Expect moments of quiet forest, photo stops at the lake, and a deliberate summit pause before descending back the same way.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this hike suits — and who should skip it.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The full excursion is about 3 hours total covering 4 miles roundtrip.
Meet inside the Berth 3 Glass Shelter next to Sockeye Sam's at 425 Water Street, Ketchikan, AK 99901 prior to load‑out.
Layered clothing (jacket, sweater), sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes, rain jacket and rain pants, and a backpack—liners or garbage bags recommended; camera encouraged. Backpacks and rain ponchos are available if needed.
This is a rural hike with no facilities at the trailhead. Public restrooms are available at Berth 3 before or after the tour; for on‑trail bathroom needs the operator carries toilet paper and waste kits (Wag Bags). The excursion is tobacco‑, drug‑ and alcohol‑free and follows leave‑no‑trace principles.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Will I see wildlife?
Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed; generally the tour does not see much wildlife, though on rare occasions guests have observed Sitka black‑tail deer, black bear, mountain goats, loon, slugs, squirrels, and stellar jays.
I'm scared of bears; how can you assure my safety?
There are no grizzly or brown bears in the Ketchikan area; black bears are present but are rarely sighted on this trail. The guide carries bear spray and wild bears typically avoid people; attacks are extremely unlikely.
I have a knee injury — can I do this trail?
Strongly recommended that you do not: the hike ascends roughly 800 feet on rocky, rooty terrain that is hard on knees and the operator is not able to carry participants out in the event of injury.
How strenuous is the hike and who should avoid it?
The hike is somewhat strenuous and intended for those in relatively good shape who enjoy exercise and uphill, uneven terrain. It is not recommended for mostly sedentary visitors or those with significant health issues.
How many people are in a group and who leads the tour?
The tour is led by the owner/operator, Tongass Teague, and is limited to small groups—no more than seven guests.
Are there restrooms on the trail?
No facilities are available at the trailhead or along the trail; public restrooms are available at Berth 3 before or after the tour. For emergencies the guide carries toilet paper and Wag Bags to pack out waste.
How long does the hike take and what is the distance?
Expect about 3 hours total for a 4‑mile roundtrip hike, including drive time to and from the trailhead.