Ketchikan: Rainforest Zipline & Canopy Adventure Small Group

Summary

Zip through Tongass forest canopies spot eagles and bears pause for coffee

You’ll soar above Ketchikan’s Tongass rainforest on eight zip lines, cross swaying bridges with eagles overhead, spot bears by creeks below, and warm up with coffee at a historic sawmill—all guided by locals who know every tree and story. Expect muddy boots, laughter in your harness, and views that stick with you long after you’re back on solid ground.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel my stomach drop before we’d even left the ground. The air in Ketchikan was thick with that wet cedar smell—kind of sharp, kind of sweet—and our guide, Jamie, grinned when he saw me eyeing the first platform. “It’s higher than it looks,” he said, and yeah, he wasn’t kidding. We clipped in and suddenly I was gliding above this tangled green world, spruce needles brushing past my gloves. I could hear water somewhere below and a raven cackling off to the side—felt like the whole forest was watching us.

There were eight zip lines in total (I lost count after five), each one a little longer or higher than the last. At one point Jamie pointed out a flash of white—bald eagle overhead—and later we paused on a swaying suspension bridge just long enough to spot a bear down by the creek. Everyone went quiet for a second, except for someone’s rain jacket squeaking against the harness. My hands were shaking but not from fear, more like too much adrenaline and cold air mixed together. I tried to say “Tongass” like Jamie did but probably butchered it; he just laughed.

After all that flying around, we stopped at this old general store near a sawmill—smelled like burnt coffee and wood shavings inside. I grabbed something hot (can’t remember if it was tea or coffee) and wandered through the little totem park out back. The carvings looked different in person than any photo—more worn down, more alive somehow. I still think about that view from up top, looking out across all those trees with rain misting sideways. It’s hard to explain unless you’ve been there yourself.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Rainforest zipline and local exploration

• Zipline through rainforest canopy
• Cross suspension bridges and rappel
• Spot bears and bald eagles
• Visit General Store and totem park
• Explore historic sawmill and blacksmith shop
• Enjoy a cold brew or hot coffee

Top questions

How many zip lines are included in this Ketchikan canopy tour?

The tour features eight zip lines plus suspension bridges and a rappel feature.

Is pickup included for this rainforest zipline adventure?

Yes, pickup is included as part of your small group experience.

What should I wear for the Tongass National Forest zipline?

You’ll need closed-toe shoes; long pants and layered clothing are recommended due to weather.

Are there weight or height restrictions for this Ketchikan zipline tour?

Yes—participants must weigh between 70-250 lbs (32-113 kg) and be at least 57 inches (145 cm) tall.

Can children join this canopy & zipline adventure?

Minors can join but must be accompanied by an adult on tour.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

No lunch is provided but you can get hot coffee or tea at the general store stop.

Will I see wildlife during the rainforest canopy tour?

You might see bald eagles or bears feeding near creeks—the guides help spot them when possible.

Does the tour operate in rainy weather?

Yes—it runs in all weather conditions so dress appropriately for rain or cold.

What’s included

Your day includes all necessary safety equipment for ziplining through Tongass National Forest, air-conditioned vehicle transport with pickup in Ketchikan, guidance from local staff throughout each platform and bridge crossing, time to explore a historic sawmill and totem park area afterward—and a chance to grab hot coffee or tea before heading back into town.