Sitka Alaska Guided Hike Small Group Tongass Trails

Hike through old growth forest where steep mountains rise above the trail.

A guided small group hike in Sitka, Alaska takes you into the Tongass National Forest on moderate trails through rugged terrain and towering old growth trees. Your local guide provides information on the area's culture, flora, fauna and history while you navigate muddy, rocky and slippery ground on foot. The tour includes round-trip transportation, trekking poles, water, snacks, safety briefing and bear spray carried by your guide. The experience lasts around four hours and suits hikers comfortable with steep climbs and unpredictable weather.

The experience

You'll hike trails in the Tongass National Forest, where old growth trees tower overhead and steep mountains frame the landscape. The terrain is moderate in difficulty but demands stable footing on rough ground. Expect mud, rocks and slippery sections. Your local, professional guide leads a small group, which means the pace and route can shift to match what your group is comfortable with. They carry bear spray, brief you on safety, and share knowledge of the local culture, wildlife and history as you move through the forest.

Round-trip transportation picks you up from a location of your choice and brings you back when the hike ends. You'll have trekking poles to steady yourself on steep sections, water and snacks to keep you fueled, and sunscreen to protect against the sun that breaks through the canopy. The hike takes around four hours total. Weather in a rainforest is unpredictable (rain, mist and wildlife sightings are not guaranteed), but the operator promises a meaningful experience in the Alaskan wilderness regardless of conditions.

This tour is built for hikers who want to get off the beaten path and are ready for challenging terrain. It's not suited to those seeking only photo stops or travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health. If you want to extend the day, the operator also offers a Peaks and Pints option that adds a brewery visit and tour at Harbor Mountain Brewing Co. after the hike.

What’s included

• Guided hike led by a local professional guide.
• round-trip transportation to the trailhead of your choice.
• trekking poles.
• bear spray carried by the guide.
• water and snacks.
• sunscreen.
• safety briefing and equipment.
• all fees and taxes.

Options for this experience

2 options

Sitka, Alaska: Half-Day HikeGuide in English · Available from 1 May 2027Lasts 4 hours; includes snacks; pickup is included

Hike and brewery tour combinedGuide in English · Available from 1 May 2027Lasts 5 hours; includes a beer or a non-alcoholic beverage; pickup is included

You'll see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates and prices

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 1 May 2027

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (6 and older) · Under 6: can't be booked

GroupUp to 7

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.You can choose from 14 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsNo refund if you cancel.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

ConfirmationConfirmation within 48 h

Prices and times updated 11 days ago

Good to know

Pets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Alpenglow Adventures Sitka

Is this one for you?Choose the half-day hike if you want a morning or afternoon on the trail without committing a full day, or add the brewery tour if you'd rather end with a guided visit to Harbor Mountain Brewing Co. The small group format means you're not locked into a fixed pace: your guide adjusts to your group's comfort level on steep, muddy terrain.

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. No refund if you cancel.

What's the hiking difficulty like on these Sitka trails?

The trails are classified as moderate difficulty and require stable footing on rough, well-maintained terrain that may be muddy, rocky and slippery. Steep climbs are part of the route, so you need to be comfortable with elevation gain and uneven ground underfoot.

What do I need to bring on the hike?

Pack breathable layers, waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking shoes and a day pack. The operator provides trekking poles, water, snacks, sunscreen and a safety briefing. You supply the clothing and pack your own gear.

How does the small group size change the experience?

Small groups let your guide adjust the pace and route to match your group's hiking ability and preferences. You can communicate your requests and Alaskan goals so the day fits what you actually want to do.

What happens if the weather is bad or we don't see wildlife?

Weather in a rainforest is unpredictable, and wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. The operator cannot promise clear skies or animal encounters, but guarantees a meaningful small group experience in the Alaskan wilderness regardless of conditions.

Does the tour include transportation to the trailhead?

Yes, round-trip transportation to and from your chosen location is included. You'll be picked up, driven to the trailhead, and brought back to your starting point when the hike ends.