Southeast Alaska — Alaska Outdoor Guide

Overview

Southeast Alaska, also known as the Alaska Panhandle, is a nature lover’s paradise. This narrow strip of land, bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Canadian province of British Columbia to the east, is characterized by its stunning coastline, majestic mountains, and pristine forests. As an Alaska outdoor guide, I can attest that Southeast Alaska offers some of the most spectacular hiking trails, campgrounds, and parks in the state. With its unique blend of Native American culture, gold rush history, and incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, Southeast Alaska is a must-visit destination for any outdoor enthusiast.

From the bustling port city of Juneau, the state capital, to the charming towns of Haines and Skagway, Southeast Alaska is filled with exciting opportunities for hiking, camping, kayaking, and wildlife watching. The region is home to the famous Inside Passage, a 1,000-mile stretch of protected waterways that offer breathtaking scenery and unparalleled access to Alaska’s wilderness. With its mild climate and stunning natural beauty, Southeast Alaska is an ideal destination for outdoor adventures, and this guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip.

Getting There & Access

To get to Southeast Alaska, you can fly into Juneau International Airport (JNU), which is served by several major airlines, including Alaska Airlines and Delta Air Lines. From Juneau, you can rent a car or take a shuttle or taxi to your destination. If you’re planning to visit the surrounding areas, such as Haines or Skagway, you can take a ferry or a small plane. The GPS coordinates for Juneau are 58.3019° N, 134.4197° W.

For those who prefer to drive, the Alaska Marine Highway System offers ferry service from Bellingham, Washington, and Prince Rupert, British Columbia. The ferry ride takes around 37 hours from Bellingham and 10 hours from Prince Rupert. The GPS coordinates for the ferry terminal in Juneau are 58.2963° N, 134.4219° W.

  • Juneau International Airport (JNU): 1873 Shell Simmons Dr, Juneau, AK 99801
  • Alaska Marine Highway System: 6858 Glacier Hwy, Juneau, AK 99801
  • Rent-a-Car: Several companies, including Avis, Hertz, and Enterprise, have locations in Juneau

What to Expect

Southeast Alaska is a hiker’s paradise, with countless trails that range from easy day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips. The terrain is varied, with dense forests, steep mountains, and scenic coastlines. Some of the most popular hiking trails in the region include the West Glacier Trail, the Mendenhall Glacier Trail, and the Tongass National Forest trails.

Terrain and Scenery

The terrain in Southeast Alaska is characterized by its rugged mountains, glaciers, and fjords. The region is home to the Tongass National Forest, which covers over 17 million acres and offers endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. The scenery is breathtaking, with towering mountains, sparkling lakes, and stunning coastline views.

Some of the must-see attractions in the region include the Mendenhall Glacier, the Tracy Arm Fjord, and the LeConte Glacier. The Mendenhall Glacier is one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska, and visitors can take a short hike to the glacier’s foot or take a kayak tour to get up close and personal. The Tracy Arm Fjord is a narrow, 30-mile-long fjord that is home to stunning scenery, wildlife, and glaciers. The LeConte Glacier is another popular destination, known for its stunning scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Southeast Alaska depends on your interests and what you want to do. The summer months (June to August) are the peak tourist season, with warm weather, long days, and access to all the hiking trails and attractions. The spring months (April to May) are a great time to see wildlife, including bears, whales, and eagles, and the fall months (September to October) offer stunning foliage and Northern Lights displays.

The winter months (November to March) are the best time for skiing, snowshoeing, and dog sledding, but some of the hiking trails and attractions may be closed due to snow and ice. The daylight hours in Southeast Alaska vary greatly depending on the time of year, with up to 18 hours of daylight in the summer and as few as 6 hours in the winter.

  • Summer (June to August): 18 hours of daylight, warm weather, peak tourist season
  • Spring (April to May): 14-16 hours of daylight, wildlife viewing, mild weather
  • Fall (September to October): 10-14 hours of daylight, stunning foliage, Northern Lights displays
  • Winter (November to March): 6-10 hours of daylight, skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding

Essential Gear & Preparation

To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Southeast Alaska, it’s essential to bring the right gear and be prepared for the wilderness. Some of the essential items to bring include:

  • Hiking boots or sturdy shoes
  • Waterproof jacket and pants
  • Insulating layers (fleece, wool, or synthetic)
  • Warm hat and gloves
  • First aid kit
  • Map and compass (and/or GPS device)
  • Headlamp or flashlight
  • Water bottle or hydration bladder
  • Food and snacks
  • Bear spray (optional)

It’s also important to be prepared for the unpredictable weather in Southeast Alaska, with rain, wind, and cold temperatures possible at any time. Make sure to check the weather forecast before heading out and be prepared to turn back if the weather becomes too severe.

Wildlife & Safety

Southeast Alaska is home to a wide range of wildlife, including bears, moose, wolves, and eagles. To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, it’s essential to be aware of the wildlife and take necessary precautions.

Bears and Moose

Bears and moose are the most common large wildlife species in Southeast Alaska, and it’s essential to know how to identify and avoid them. Black bears are common in the region, and while they tend to avoid humans, they can become aggressive if they feel threatened or if they’re protecting their young. Brown bears are also present in the region, and they’re more aggressive than black bears. Moose are large and powerful, and they can be unpredictable if they feel threatened or if they’re surprised.

To avoid encounters with bears and moose, make sure to:

  • Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising them
  • Stay on designated trails and avoid wandering into dense vegetation
  • Keep a clean campsite and store food and trash properly
  • Be aware of your surroundings and watch for signs of wildlife

If you do encounter a bear or moose, stay calm and follow these steps:

  • Give the animal plenty of space and avoid approaching it
  • Avoid eye contact and try to appear non-threatening
  • Back away slowly and try to leave the area without running
  • Use bear spray if the animal approaches and you’re within spraying distance

History & Background

Southeast Alaska has a rich and diverse history, with evidence of human habitation dating back over 10,000 years. The region was originally inhabited by the Tlingit and Haida Native American tribes, who lived in the area for thousands of years before the arrival of European explorers.

Indigenous Heritage

The Tlingit and Haida tribes have a deep connection to the land and the resources it provides. They were skilled hunters and gatherers, and they lived in harmony with the environment. The Tlingit tribe is known for their expertise in carving and weaving, and their traditional clothing and regalia are still an important part of their cultural heritage.

The Haida tribe is known for their skilled craftsmanship, particularly in woodworking and canoe building. They’re also known for their vibrant art and storytelling, which often features intricate designs and patterns.

Today, the Tlingit and Haida tribes continue to play an important role in Southeast Alaska, with many tribe members involved in conservation efforts, cultural preservation, and tourism. Visitors to the region can learn about the indigenous heritage by visiting the Alaska Native Heritage Center, attending a cultural festival, or taking a guided tour with a local tribe member.

Tips from Locals

As an Alaska outdoor guide, I’ve had the opportunity to explore Southeast Alaska and learn from the locals. Here are some insider tips to help you make the most of your trip:

  • Be prepared for variable weather, with rain, wind, and cold temperatures possible at any time
  • Bring a good map and compass (and/or GPS device), as cell phone reception can be spotty in the region
  • Respect the wildlife and keep a safe distance, especially when it comes to bears and moose
  • Take your time and enjoy the scenery, as the views in Southeast Alaska are truly breathtaking
  • Consider visiting in the shoulder season (April to May or September to October), when the crowds are smaller and the prices are lower

Some of the hidden gems in the region include the Tracy Arm Fjord, which is a narrow, 30-mile-long fjord that’s home to stunning scenery, wildlife, and glaciers. Another hidden gem is the LeConte Glacier, which is a stunning glacier that’s accessible by kayak or boat. The Tongass National Forest is also a must-visit, with its towering trees, sparkling lakes, and stunning coastline views.

Nearby Attractions

Southeast Alaska is surrounded by a wide range of attractions and activities, including:

  • The Mendenhall Glacier, which is one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska
  • The Tongass National Forest, which offers endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching
  • The Tracy Arm Fjord, which is a narrow, 30-mile-long fjord that’s home to stunning scenery, wildlife, and glaciers
  • The LeConte Glacier, which is a stunning glacier that’s accessible by kayak or boat
  • The Alaska Marine Highway System, which offers ferry service to surrounding communities and attractions

Some of the nearby towns and cities include Juneau, Haines, Skagway, and Ketchikan, each with its own unique character and attractions. Juneau is the state capital and is home to a wide range of restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions. Haines is a charming town with a strong outdoor recreation focus, while Skagway is a historic town with a rich gold rush heritage. Ketchikan is a bustling city with a strong fishing industry and a wide range of cultural attractions.

Planning Resources

To plan your trip to Southeast Alaska, here are some useful resources to get you started:

Some of the necessary permits and fees include:

  • Camping permits: $10-20 per night
  • Hiking permits: free or $10-20 per person
  • Fishing licenses: $20-50 per day
  • Bear viewing permits: $50-100 per person

It’s also important to note that some of the attractions and activities in Southeast Alaska may have restricted access or require special permits. Make sure to check with the relevant authorities before heading out to ensure that you have the necessary permits and follow all the rules and regulations.

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