If you’re visiting Sitka, Alaska, you’ll be spending time in the Tongass National Forest—one of the most unique landscapes in North America. At nearly 17 million acres, it’s the largest national forest in the United States and part of the world’s largest temperate rainforest.
But what really stands out isn’t the size—it’s what it feels like to walk through it.
A Living Rainforest
The forest around Sitka is dense, green, and incredibly alive. Sitka spruce and western hemlock tower overhead, forming a thick canopy that lets in just enough light to keep everything below growing.
The ground is soft with moss, and you’ll see ferns, fallen logs, and berry bushes like blueberry and salmonberry throughout the forest. It’s the kind of place where something is growing everywhere you look.
You’ll also come across different types of terrain within a short distance—coastal forest, rocky shorelines, and muskeg (a type of open, boggy wetland). That variety is part of what makes hiking here so interesting.
Wildlife in the Area
Wildlife is a big part of the Tongass experience, even if you don’t always see it right away.
On Baranof Island, where Sitka is located, coastal brown bears are the only bear species. You may also notice signs of Sitka black-tailed deer, especially along quieter trails.
Bald eagles are common and easy to spot, especially near the water. Along the shoreline or in estuaries, you might see river otters, seabirds, and other coastal animals.
In late summer and fall, salmon return to spawn in local streams. This is one of the most active times of year for wildlife, as bears, eagles, and other animals take advantage of the food source.
A Landscape Shaped by Water
Water is everywhere in the Tongass, and it’s what keeps the forest thriving.
Rain is common, and while that can surprise visitors, it’s also what makes the forest so green. On most hikes, you’ll cross small streams, hear running water nearby, or walk along the ocean.
It’s all part of the experience here.
What to Expect Throughout the Year
Conditions in the Tongass change with the seasons, and each one offers something a little different:
- Spring: New growth, more active wildlife, and flowing streams
- Summer: Long days and peak hiking conditions
- Late Summer–Fall: Salmon runs, berries, and increased wildlife activity
- Winter: Quieter trails and a more peaceful, low-traffic experience
There’s no bad time to be out here—it just depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for.
Exploring the Tongass
The Tongass is wild, and that’s part of what makes it special. It’s also a place where it helps to have some local knowledge.
Hiking with a guide can give you a better understanding of what you’re seeing—from plants and animal signs to how the ecosystem fits together—and help you explore areas you might not find on your own.
Spending time in the Tongass isn’t about covering miles as much as it is about slowing down and paying attention. If you take your time, there’s a lot to see out here.
