Tongass Rainforest Hike

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Spend two-and-a-half hours exploring the natural beauty of Sitka's remote wilderness on this four-mile active guided hike. Begin your outdoor excursion at your pier where you will board a bus for a brief scenic drive through the stunning Alaska landscape.

Disembark at the head of the Starrigavan Muskeg Trail and set out on your wilderness exploration. As you begin your gentle climb along the meandering trail, your knowledgeable and friendly guides will regale you with information about the area's rich history as well as the flora and fauna. En route you'll have the opportunity to marvel at the beauty of Alaska yellow cedar, lodgepole pine and hemlock trees topped with gnarled branches known as witch's brooms. Your hike will take you to the glistening waters of Starrigavan Creek, where thousands of salmon come to spawn in the late summer and fall. Learn about the region's fishing industry and fascinating life cycle of salmon.

Continue along the one-and-a-half mile Mosquito Loop Trail that takes you higher in elevation. From here you will enjoy breathtaking mountain vistas and spots perfect for viewing the area's abundant birds of prey and sea birds. The trail sneaks along the shore of Starrigavan Bay just inside the forest edge where large western hemlock and Sitka spruce trees form an impressive canopy over most of the trail. Wander through the world's largest temperate rainforest carpeted with mosses and liverworts, punctuated by lady fern, shield fern, and deer fern.

Then descend to the ocean for a walk along the gravelly tidal zone, teeming with marine life. Enjoy a complimentary bottled water as you breathe in the fresh sea air and take in the beauty of one of the world's most amazing landscapes.

Your hike ends at Old Sitka located along Starrigavan Bay. This National Historic Landmark is the site of the first Russian contact on Baranof Island in 1799. As you board your bus for your brief ride back to your ship, relax and contemplate the diverse beauty and rich history of Sitka you discovered during your outdoor adventure.

Special Notes:

Minimum age is 8. Participants should be able to hike up to 4 miles of uneven terrain with a 300-foot elevation gain. Guides can tailor hiking pace to suit group needs.

Liability waiver required to be signed in the presence of the tour operator.

Unaccompanied Minors Policy: Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Medical Restriction:

Participants should be able to hike up to 4 miles of uneven terrain with a 300-foot elevation gain.