Laramie Peak | Wheatland

Tongass National Forest is the largest national forest in the United States, located in Southeast Alaska. It encompasses a significant portion of the Inside Passage.

Visual Characteristics

The forest is characterized by dense temperate rainforest, dominated by Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and Alaska cedar. The terrain features rugged mountains, glaciers, fjords, and numerous islands. Water bodies range from clear glacial melt streams to deep, dark saltwater inlets. Vegetation density is high, with a thick understory of mosses, ferns, and berry bushes.

Location & Access Logistics

Tongass National Forest is accessible via Juneau, Alaska. From downtown Juneau, the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center is approximately 13 miles northeast via Glacier Highway. Access to various trailheads and remote areas within the forest requires boat or floatplane transport, as many locations are not road-accessible. Limited parking is available at developed sites like the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. Public transport options to the Mendenhall Glacier include the Capital Transit Route 3 bus.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Tongass National Forest was established on February 1, 1907. It is a temperate rainforest ecosystem, one of the largest remaining in the world. Its geological features are shaped by glacial activity and tectonic forces, with U-shaped valleys and fjords carved by ancient ice sheets. The forest's ecological significance lies in its biodiversity and role as a carbon sink.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include hiking on designated trails such as the East Glacier Loop Trail or the Nugget Creek Trail. Wildlife viewing opportunities exist for bears, eagles, and marine mammals. Kayaking and boat tours are available in the fjords. Photography of glaciers, waterfalls, and old-growth forest is a common pursuit. Fishing is permitted in designated areas with appropriate licenses.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Developed areas like the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center offer restrooms, interpretive displays, and limited food concessions. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available in developed areas near Juneau but is unreliable in remote forest sections. Shade is abundant due to the dense tree canopy. Some trailheads have basic picnic facilities.

Best Time to Visit

The best months for visiting are typically from June to August, offering the mildest weather and longest daylight hours. For photography, early morning and late afternoon light provides optimal conditions for illuminating the forest and glaciers. High tide is generally preferred for boat access to certain coastal areas.

Facts & Legends

A unique aspect of Tongass is its designation as a "roadless area" in significant portions, preserving its wilderness character. Local Tlingit legends speak of spirits inhabiting the ancient forests and mountains, influencing the natural landscape.

Nearby Landmarks

• Mendenhall Glacier (0.5km West)
• Juneau Icefield (10km North)
• Tracy Arm Fjord (40km Southeast, accessible by boat tour)
• Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve (Approximately 80km Northwest, accessible by boat or plane)
• Mount Roberts (5km Southwest)