Rainbird Trail
Hike through Ketchikan's vibrant rainforest, a moderate trail with lush scenery and scenic overlooks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Rainbird Trail
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through Ketchikan's vibrant rainforest, a moderate trail with lush scenery and scenic overlooks.
"Gorgeous hiking trail through the evergreen rainforest, but be prepared for ample local rain. "
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Waterproof boots with good grip are essential due to slippery rocks and mud.
💧 Pack Rain Gear
Ketchikan is known for rain; waterproof jackets and pants are highly recommended.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 · 178 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Forest Immersion
Wander through a vibrant evergreen rainforest with towering trees and a fresh, earthy scent.
+1
Scenic Overlooks
Catch glimpses of Pennock Island, Ketchikan town, and surrounding mountains from designated viewpoints.
Wildflower Blooms
During certain seasons, discover a variety of beautiful wildflowers dotting the forest floor.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Alaskan Elements
Trail Navigation & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Waterproof boots with good grip are essential due to slippery rocks and mud.
💧 Pack Rain Gear
Ketchikan is known for rain; waterproof jackets and pants are highly recommended.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Some trail sections can be unclear; an offline map app is a lifesaver.
🚶♀️ Consider Trekking Poles
Helpful for balance on steep sections and slippery rocks, especially if it's wet.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Waterproof boots with good grip are essential due to slippery rocks and mud.
💧 Pack Rain Gear
Ketchikan is known for rain; waterproof jackets and pants are highly recommended.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Some trail sections can be unclear; an offline map app is a lifesaver.
🚶♀️ Consider Trekking Poles
Helpful for balance on steep sections and slippery rocks, especially if it's wet.
📸 Capture the Greenery
The lush rainforest offers incredible photo opportunities, especially after a rain shower.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Rainbird Trail for its immersive rainforest experience and scenic beauty, offering a great free activity for cruise passengers. However, some find it more challenging than expected, with slippery and uneven terrain requiring sturdy footwear and caution.
"This trail takes you through a beautiful, lush forest with large trees, babbling streams, and good views of Pennock Island, parts of Ketchikan, and surrounding mountains. Most trail apps mark this as an easy trail although I’d say it’s more moderate . Be prepared for steep hills, tree roots, slippery rocks in some areas - sturdy footwear and hiking poles are recommended. I didn’t use hiking poles and got around fine but I could see how they could be useful. The best lookout point is closer to the South access of the trail - there’s a clearing with a short wood fence right next to the trail. You can walk to the South access of the trail from the cruise port, or the bus route also goes by both the North and South access points of the trail. We had a rental car so started at the UAS campus access point where you can park within the University’s parking lot."
Matt Peppes
"There are some points that the trail track is not so obvious. I thought I was on track but actually walked away the trail and down as much 50 yards where I could not go any further and had to climb back up, which was wet and tough. That took half an hour and had to be quite careful because there are quite some rotten trunks that would not support an adult’s weight. Overall is quite a pleasant hike with extremely fresh forest smell and a little bit of view down at the town and ships."
Stanley Siu
"Gorgeous hiking trail through the evergreen rainforest. Honestly, the toughest part is reaching it on foot from the town. Waterproof hiking boots and solid gear to put against ample local rain are highly recommended. Many a person comes down with a mud-caked posterior.
A note: Regard the map of the trail. One half is maintained and the other half is not. If nervous about the wilder side of the trail, then there is a clear path that allows you to exit to the roadway. The sidewalk runs to town."
Johnathan Williams
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can walk to the South access point of the Rainbird Trail from the cruise port, which takes about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, a bus route also services both the North and South access points. Taxis are also an option and can take you directly to a trailhead.
Yes, if you have a rental car, you can park at the University of Alaska Southeast (UAS) campus, which provides access to the northern part of the trail.
Absolutely! The trail is accessible to all visitors. If you're staying in Ketchikan, you can use local transport or drive to the trailheads.
While the trail has some steep sections and roots, the lower parts are more manageable. It's best to check with local guides or park services for the most accessible routes.
The Rainbird Trail is primarily a hiking trail and is not generally recommended for cycling due to its uneven terrain, roots, and potential for slippery conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Rainbird Trail is part of the Tongass National Forest and is free to access.
The trail is open year-round, but it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
There is no general entrance fee for the Tongass National Forest. However, specific developed recreation areas within the forest might have day-use fees. The Rainbird Trail itself is free.
No permits are required for day hiking on the Rainbird Trail.
While not mandatory, guided tours are available from local operators in Ketchikan, which can enhance your experience and provide insights into the local flora and fauna.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike can take anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and how much you stop to enjoy the scenery.
Most trail apps mark it as easy, but many visitors describe it as moderate due to steep hills, tree roots, and slippery rocks. Be prepared for some elevation gain.
You might spot mule deer, various birds, and if you're lucky, even slugs.
Restroom facilities are generally not available directly on the trail itself. It's best to use facilities at the trailhead or in town before you begin your hike.
Maintenance varies. Some sections have been improved with stone steps and hardened tread, while others can be less obvious. Recent brush removal has been noted.
📸 📸 Photography
The best lookout point is near the South access, offering views of the town and ships. The lush forest itself provides many picturesque moments.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the forest's green hues, but be prepared for potential fog or mist.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. The key is to be prepared for the elements, so a waterproof case or bag is advisable.
Drone usage is subject to regulations within the Tongass National Forest. It's best to check with the U.S. Forest Service for current rules and restrictions before flying.
Expect to capture images of dense rainforest, moss-covered trees, winding paths, and scenic overlooks.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit