Top 17 Lakes in Tongass National Forest

Many lakes in Tongass National Forest are popular for hiking. For a scenic mountain-lake experience near Ketchikan, consider Perseverance Lake, which offers a noticeable but not overly strenuous hike typically taking two to four hours. Another popular option is Upper Dewey Lake, known for its challenging trail and idyllic blue-green, glacier-fed waters. The Situk Lake Trail also offers an intermediate hike, though it can be wet and muddy.

Yes, Tongass National Forest offers several family-friendly options. Ward Lake near Ketchikan is very popular with locals due to its close proximity to town and mostly flat, circumferential trail, making it ideal for easy walks. Lower Dewey Lake in Skagway also features an easy 2.9-mile loop trail, usually completed in about 1 hour and 30 minutes, providing scenic views suitable for families. The Mendenhall Glacier Viewpoint area also offers family-friendly hiking activities.

The lakes in Tongass National Forest are rich in wildlife. You can often spot various species of salmon, rainbow, and cutthroat trout in the waters. On land, deer and bears are common, especially near the Situk Lake Trail when fish are running. The forest also hosts numerous marine mammals and birds, adding to the diverse ecosystem.

Yes, some lakes offer options for overnight stays. Bakewell Lake provides a rustic wilderness experience with a cabin available for overnight stays. Similarly, the Upper Dewey Lake area has a public use cabin that must be reserved in advance. The Windfall Lake public use cabin also offers accommodation overlooking the lake, complete with a canoe, and requires advance reservation.

The best time to visit the lakes in Tongass National Forest generally aligns with the warmer, drier months, typically from late spring through early fall (May to September). During this period, trails are more accessible, and conditions are more favorable for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. However, be aware that some trails, like the Situk Lake Trail, can still be wet and muddy even in summer.

Yes, fishing is a significant draw in Tongass National Forest. Many lakes and streams are teeming with salmon, rainbow, and cutthroat trout. Bakewell Lake, for instance, is specifically known for its fishing opportunities, offering a more rustic wilderness experience.

For a challenging hike, consider the trail to Upper Dewey Lake. This route features steep inclines that will test your endurance but rewards you with stunning views of a glacier-fed lake. Perseverance Lake also involves a noticeable elevation gain, making it a moderately strenuous option.

Beyond hiking and fishing, the Tongass National Forest offers diverse outdoor activities. You can explore various cycling routes, including options for touring and road cycling, with guides like Cycling in Tongass National Forest and Road Cycling Routes in Tongass National Forest. There are also numerous running trails, such as those found in the Running Trails in Tongass National Forest guide, and opportunities for kayaking and wildlife viewing.

Mendenhall Lake is notable for its direct proximity to the Mendenhall Glacier, offering visitors easy access to explore the glacier and engage in hiking activities. The Mendenhall Glacier Viewpoint provides an unforgettable experience with various hiking routes around this iconic natural wonder. Upper Dewey Lake is also glacier-fed, contributing to its distinctive blue-green color.

Ward Lake, located near Ketchikan, is highly popular for its easy access and flat trail that circles the lake, making it perfect for a quick, relaxing walk. Lower Dewey Lake in Skagway also offers a relatively quick and rewarding 2.9-mile loop trail that can be completed in about 1.5 hours, providing scenic views without a major time commitment.

Trail conditions can vary significantly. Some trails, like the Situk Lake Trail and the trail to the Windfall Lake public use cabin, can be very wet and muddy, especially in summer, though some muddy spots may have gravel improvements. Low-lying portions of trails like the Russell Fiord Trail are prone to flooding. Always be prepared for varying terrain and potential wildlife encounters, particularly bears and moose.