Beautiful Hike on Tongass National Forests Lunch Creek Trail

The Lunch Creek Trail in Southeastern Alaska‘s Tongass National Forest offers a captivating hiking experience for the adventurous outdoors enthusiast. Winding through a diversity of landscapes, from lush temperate rainforests to rugged alpine terrain, each step on this moderate trail reveals the region’s natural splendor. Hikers can expect to encounter local wildlife and enjoy the serene sounds of rushing creeks, all while marveling at the towering conifers and vibrant wildflowers that adorn the path. What awaits those who venture forth on this trail is an unforgettable connection with the wilderness.

This experience made our article of Ketchikan’s 4 Best Lunch Experiences.

Key Points

1. Explore the diverse landscapes of Tongass National Forest, including temperate rainforests, rugged coastlines, and vibrant wildflowers along the Lunch Creek Trail.

2. Set out on a guided moderate-level hike with an experienced tour company that provides essential gear and refreshments for a comfortable and immersive experience.

3. Witness the abundance of wildlife, such as black bears, bald eagles, and Roosevelt elk, as you traverse through the lush and scenic rainforest.

4. Enjoy the soothing sounds of rushing creeks and the transition from towering conifers to open meadows, offering a unique and visually stunning hiking adventure.

5. Properly prepare with appropriate footwear and trekking poles to navigate the gradual incline and rocky, uneven terrain of the Lunch Creek Trail with ease and safety.

Hiking in the Tongass National Forest

One of the premier hiking destinations in Alaska is the Tongass National Forest, a vast wilderness that spans over 16 million acres across the southeastern part of the state.

As the largest national forest in the United States, the Tongass offers endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. From lush temperate rainforests to rugged coastlines, the landscape is diverse and breathtaking.

The Tongass National Forest, a vast wilderness teeming with diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to rugged coastlines, offers endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Hiking trails like the Lunch Creek Trail provide access to this natural wonder, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of the Alaskan wilderness.

With its moderate difficulty and stunning scenery, the Lunch Creek Trail is a must-visit for any adventurer exploring the Tongass.

Getting to the Lunch Creek Trail

The Lunch Creek Trail is located within the vast expanse of the Tongass National Forest, near the scenic city of Ketchikan, Alaska.

To get there, travelers will meet at the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau on Front Street, where they’ll look for the Island Girl Hiking Company sign next to The Rock sculpture. From there, the hike departs and returns to the same meeting point.

Hikers should plan to arrive 15 minutes early to check in and get prepared for the moderate-level trek through the lush, temperate rainforest. The trail offers stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape.

Gear and Essentials for the Hike

As hikers prepare for the Tongass National Forest trek, the guided tour company provides essential gear to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.

The company supplies a cinch pack for the hike, allowing hands-free exploration. Ponchos are available in case hikers lack proper rain gear.

Plus, the tour includes bottled water, healthy snacks like fresh fruit, trail mix, energy bars, and pretzels to fuel the journey.

This thoughtful provision of necessary equipment and sustenance allows participants to fully enjoy the stunning natural surroundings of the Lunch Creek Trail without worry.

Exploring the Diverse Landscapes

Though the Tongass National Forest is known for its vast, lush temperate rainforests, the Lunch Creek Trail offers hikers a chance to explore the region’s diverse landscapes.

The trail winds through a mosaic of dense forests, open meadows, and rocky alpine terrain. Hikers may spot wildlife like black bears, bald eagles, and Roosevelt elk as they traverse the changing scenery.

Towering conifers give way to vibrant wildflowers, and the sound of rushing creeks provides a soothing backdrop. Each step unveils a new slice of Alaskan beauty, making the Lunch Creek Trail a true delight for nature enthusiasts.

Wildlife Sightings Along the Trail

While hiking the Lunch Creek Trail, hikers may have the opportunity to spot an array of fascinating wildlife indigenous to the Tongass National Forest.

Some potential sightings include:

• Black bears foraging for berries or salmon in the creek

• Bald eagles soaring overhead or perched in the towering old-growth trees

• Harbor seals swimming in the nearby waters of Behm Canal

• Herds of Sitka black-tailed deer grazing on the forest floor

These wild encounters can make the hiking experience even more memorable and connect visitors to the vibrant ecosystem of the Tongass.

Navigating the Moderate Terrain

The Lunch Creek Trail in the Tongass National Forest presents a moderate level of difficulty, making it an accessible hike for most visitors.

The trail features a gradual incline, with some steeper sections that may require extra caution. Hikers should wear proper footwear with good traction to navigate the rocky and sometimes muddy terrain.

The trail features a gradual incline, with some steeper sections requiring extra caution. Proper footwear with good traction is recommended for the rocky, sometimes muddy terrain.

Trekking poles can also be helpful for stability on the ascent and descent. While not overly strenuous, the hike does require a moderate level of physical fitness.

Hikers should be prepared to navigate some uneven ground and be mindful of their pace and footing throughout the journey.

Returning to the Starting Point

At the conclusion of the hike, the group will retrace their steps back along the Lunch Creek Trail to the starting point at the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau.

This return journey offers the opportunity to:

• Take in the breathtaking scenery one last time

• Reflect on the highlights and challenges of the adventure

• Debrief with fellow hikers and the guide

• Prepare for the next stage of the day’s activities

The well-marked trail makes the return trip straightforward, allowing the group to move at a comfortable pace.

With the hard work behind them, hikers can appreciate the beauty of their surroundings on the way back.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Hike?

No, pets are not allowed on the hike. The experience is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, and it’s not suitable for those needing assistance or with serious medical conditions.

What if I Need to Use the Restroom During the Hike?

The hike does not provide any restroom facilities along the trail, so hikers should plan ahead and use the restroom before the hike starts. If needed, hikers can discreetly step off the trail to take care of personal needs.

Is There an Option to Book a Private Tour?

Yes, the tour company offers private hiking tours for groups up to 8 travelers. Private tours can be booked for an additional fee and provide a more personalized experience on the Lunch Creek Trail in Tongass National Forest.

Can I Leave My Luggage at the Meeting Point?

The meeting point does not offer luggage storage. Travelers must bring only what they need for the hike and leave any extra bags or luggage behind. The tour company does not provide or arrange for luggage storage services.

Is There Cell Phone Reception Along the Trail?

Cell phone reception may be limited along the Lunch Creek Trail due to the remote location within the Tongass National Forest. Hikers should plan accordingly and be prepared for potential gaps in cellular coverage during the hike.

The Sum Up

The Lunch Creek Trail in Tongass National Forest offers a remarkable hiking experience. Traversing diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to rugged alpine terrain, hikers are immersed in the serene sounds of rushing creeks and may spot local wildlife. With towering conifers and vibrant wildflowers, each step reveals the stunning natural beauty of southeastern Alaska, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.