Tongass National Forest

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Hiking

Hiking trails throughout the Tongass provide access to special places. Many of these are not your average trail. Muskegs are a fragile - and wet - environment, calling for special trail-building techniques. Many trails are planks raised over the wet ground to protect both the environment and hikers' feet. However, the raised planks may not be enough to keep your feet dry, so check with district offices for the appropriate foot gear before you go.

Elsewhere, especially in the woods, corduroy (small logs laid side-by-side on the ground to provide footing in the mud) may help you across a boggy patch before you hit the drier forest duff, and wooden steps, some made out of split logs, will help you up steep slopes. Beware of the "helpful" devils club branches along the trail - their nasty spines will inflict great pain!

As you hike, keep your eyes open for nature's surprises, from tiny bog plants to far-from-tiny bears. And speaking of bears, remember, you're in their territory. Always make your presence known. They don't want to be surprised any more than you do and will avoid you if they can. Wearing bear bells (or cow bells), talking or singing loudly, and generally making noise can make life easier for both you and the bears.

For current trail conditions, check with the local Forest Service office.

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USDA Forest Service - Tongass National Forest
Last Modified: February 02, 2007