Explore Tongass National Forest on Connell Lake Trail Hike

Ketchikan, Alaska, isn’t just about cruise ships and bustling docks; it’s also a gateway to some of the most pristine wilderness in North America. One of the best ways to appreciate this natural beauty is on a guided hike through Tongass National Forest, specifically along the scenic Connell Lake Trail. Priced at $156 per person, this 3.5-hour adventure offers a chance to walk through towering old-growth trees, moss-covered landscapes, and enjoy spectacular views of Connell Lake and Brown Mountain.

What immediately strikes us about this tour is how it balances easy accessibility with authentic wilderness experience. The guided nature of the hike ensures you’re not just wandering aimlessly but learning about the forest’s flora, fauna, and importance for Alaska’s environment. Two things we particularly love—first, the personalized attention from the guide that makes the experience both educational and relaxed; second, the beautiful scenery that keeps your camera busy even on a cloudy day.

One potential consideration is the trail’s unpaved surface, hills, and loose gravel, which might not suit everyone—especially those with mobility issues or injuries that require frequent stops. It’s also not recommended for those who need assistance walking. However, if you’re moderately fit and enjoy outdoor activity, this is an excellent choice. This hike will suit travelers who appreciate learning about nature, enjoy mild physical activity, and want a peaceful escape from crowds.

Key Points

• Authentic wilderness experience with expert-guided storytelling about local plants and animals
• Stunning vistas of Connell Lake and surrounding mountains make for memorable photo opportunities
• Accessible for moderate fitness levels but not suitable for those with mobility challenges
• All essentials included—water, snacks, a cinch bag, and rain gear if needed
• Small group size (max 8) ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere
• Free cancellation makes it easy to plan with confidence

An In-Depth Look at the Connell Lake Trail Hike

When we first hear about this tour, it’s clear that it’s designed for travelers seeking a blend of gentle physical activity and immersive nature. The three-and-a-half-hour duration strikes a good balance—long enough to enjoy the scenery and learn about the forest, but short enough for most to comfortably fit into a day’s itinerary.

The Meeting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins at the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau on Front Street, a central and easily accessible location in town. Dawn, the guide, meets the group personally—an appreciated touch that adds a local, friendly feel. From there, transportation to the trailhead is included, removing any worries about navigating unfamiliar roads. Arriving relaxed and ready, you’ll start your trek with a small group of up to eight travelers—a size that fosters a personal and intimate experience.

The Trail Itself: Connell Lake and Beyond

The Connell Lake Trail is characterized as easy to moderate—ideal for most hikers with decent mobility. The trail is unpaved, featuring hills and loose gravel, which adds a bit of challenge but also authenticity. As you walk, you’ll pass through moss-covered trees and towering old-growth forests, with the refreshing scent of pine and cedar filling the air.

The views are what many remember most. You’ll enjoy panoramic vistas of Connell Lake, with its calm waters reflecting the sky and the surrounding mountains. The trail also provides a glimpse of Brown Mountain, offering a sense of the vast wilderness that extends beyond your view. The scenery is so striking that it’s easy to forget about the physical effort involved.

Learning and Wildlife Sightings

The guided aspect of this tour is more than just pointing out trees. The guides are knowledgeable about indigenous plants and animals, sharing insights that deepen your appreciation of the forest. One review highlights the guide’s ability to make the experience both informative and relaxed.

On a lucky day, you might spot local wildlife—like a small bear seen from a safe distance, as one reviewer described. While wildlife sightings are unpredictable, the chance to observe Alaska’s natural creatures adds to the allure of this hike.

Food, Water, and Comfort

The tour includes bottled water and healthy snacks—a thoughtful addition that keeps energy levels high. The snacks consist of trail mix, fresh fruit, energy bars, and pretzels, all packed in a cinch bag you carry yourself. If weather conditions turn rainy, ponchos are available, ensuring you stay comfortable no matter the forecast.

Personal Experiences and Reviews

Reviewers consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and friendliness. Nancy described it as the “best excursion of her whole trip,” especially noting the opportunity to learn about indigenous flora and fauna and even witnessing a small bear—a highlight that many travelers dream of.

Robert appreciated how Dawn personally met them at the dock, making the beginning of the trip seamless and personable. He emphasized the peacefulness of the experience and how it provided a welcome break from the busy cruise port.

Price and Value

At $156, the tour offers quite good value considering it includes personalized guiding, transportation, snacks, water, rain gear, and a memorable wilderness experience. Small group sizes of up to 8 travelers ensure you get attention and a relaxed atmosphere—worth the cost for those wanting quality over quantity.

Who Will Love This Hike?

If you’re an active traveler who enjoys learning about local ecosystems and getting a taste of true wilderness, this tour is ideal. It’s perfect for adventurers comfortable with uneven terrain and who appreciate a small-group setting that fosters genuine connection. Nature lovers seeking quiet, unspoiled scenery and opportunity to see wildlife will find this hike particularly rewarding.

This tour may not suit visitors with mobility issues or those who prefer paved paths or very easy walks. It’s a moderate effort, but the scenery and insights make it worthwhile for most travelers with a reasonable level of fitness.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

In an area known for spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife, this guided hike offers a genuine taste of Tongass National Forest without the strenuous effort of long, challenging climbs. The personalized guidance and intimate group size make it feel less like a tour and more like a nature outing with friends.

The combination of beautiful vistas, educational commentary, and the chance to see local wildlife makes this a memorable experience for nature enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. The cost reflects the value of a personalized, well-organized outing, especially considering all included essentials like snacks, water, rain gear, and transportation.

This hike is best suited for active, nature-minded travelers who want to escape the town and enjoy Alaska’s wilderness, even if just for a few hours. It’s an opportunity to connect with the land, learn about its importance, and leave with stories and photos that will enrich your Alaska trip.

FAQ

How long is the hike?
The hike lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and learn about the forest.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau on Front Street, a convenient and central location.

Who guides the hike?
A knowledgeable guide—Dawn—meets you personally, making the experience friendly and informative.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a cinch bag, bottled water, healthy snacks, and rain gear if needed—all designed for comfort and convenience.

Is this suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness who are comfortable walking on unpaved trails. It’s not recommended for those needing assistance with walking.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain, a rain jacket or poncho if rain is forecast, and a camera to capture the views.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start—perfect for flexible travel plans.

Will I see wildlife?
While wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, some travelers have seen bears and other animals from a safe distance.

How many people are in a group?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour can provide ponchos if the weather turns wet, and the scenic views of the forest are still worth experiencing in drizzle or fog.

Exploring the Tongass National Forest on the Connell Lake Trail is a genuine way to see some of Alaska’s most stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful walk, a chance to learn about indigenous plants, or just a break from the crowds, this guided hike offers a meaningful, memorable taste of what makes Alaska so special.