Connell Lake Rainforest Hike Small Group 6 Guests Max

Old-growth forest and lake views on a trail that stays under six hikers

A small-group hike through Ketchikan's Tongass National Forest at Connell Lake, limited to 6 guests and led by a lifelong local. The trail winds 2–3 miles through old-growth rainforest with moss-covered floors, passing lake and mountain views. Your guide shares insight into the plants, wildlife and history that define Southeast Alaska's temperate rainforest.

The experience

Connell Lake Trail sits inside Tongass National Forest, one of the largest temperate rainforests in North America. The hike follows an unpaved path through towering old-growth trees and moss-covered forest floors, with the lake and surrounding mountains visible as you move through the ecosystem. A lifelong Ketchikan local leads the group. Someone who grew up exploring these forests and can point out the plants, wildlife and history that make the place distinctive. With a maximum of 6 guests, the pace stays personal and the noise level stays low, a sharp contrast to the larger cruise excursions that leave from the same port.

The trail covers 2–3 miles at an easy-to-moderate pace, though the ground is unpaved with hills and loose gravel. You'll carry a cinch bag with your belongings and a packed lunch of fresh fruit, trail mix, an energy bar and pretzels. Everything you'll need without the weight of a full backpack. Bottled water is provided. If you don't have rain gear, the operator supplies a poncho. The hike is timed so you're back at the ship well before departure.

What’s included

• Bottled water.
• entrance fee to Tongass National Forest.
• a packed lunch of fresh fruit, trail mix, energy bar and pretzels carried in your cinch bag.
• a cinch bag for carrying belongings.
• a poncho if you don't have rain gear of your own.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day except SaturdayDepartures at 08:00 and 13:30

Book up to4h before

AgesAdult (14 to 80 years) · Youth (8 to 13 years) · Under 8: can't be booked

GroupUp to 6

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPets welcomeNot recommended with heart problems

Operated by Dawn

Is this one for you?At 3.5 hours, this hike leaves time to return to your ship and explore Ketchikan's town before departure, or simply rest after the forest. The small group of 6 keeps the pace manageable and the experience intimate, so you're not racing to keep up with a larger tour or competing for the guide's attention.

Traveler reviews

5.00★★★★★★★★★★

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (8 to 13 years). Children under 8 can't be included in the booking.

What is the Tongass National Forest like on this trail?

Tongass National Forest is a temperate rainforest defined by towering old-growth trees, moss-covered forest floors and an ecosystem unique to Southeast Alaska. The trail at Connell Lake passes through this landscape with views of the lake and surrounding mountains, and your guide explains the plants, wildlife and history that shape the forest.

How much walking is involved on the Connell Lake hike?

The trail covers 2–3 miles over an easy-to-moderate hike. The ground is unpaved with hills and loose gravel, so it requires a moderate level of physical fitness. The pace is set by the group, and you move at your own speed through the forest.

What do I carry during the hike?

You carry a cinch bag with your belongings and a packed lunch of fresh fruit, trail mix, an energy bar and pretzels. The bag is lightweight and designed for a day hike. The operator packs out everything at the end so you leave no trace.

Is this hike suitable if I'm not an experienced hiker?

The trail is easy-to-moderate and welcomes hikers of varying experience. You set your own pace and the group stays small, so there's no pressure to keep up. The hike is not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health or those who need assistance with walking, and the unpaved terrain with loose gravel requires at least a moderate level of fitness.

How does the timing work with a cruise ship departure?

The hike is scheduled so you're back at your ship refreshed and with plenty of time before departure. The 3.5-hour outing leaves room to return, freshen up and board without rushing.