Ketchikan sits inside the Tongass National Forest — the largest temperate rainforest in the world — and receives over 150 inches of rain per year. That might sound like a reason to stay inside. It isn’t. The trails here are extraordinary, and if you dress for the conditions, you’ll have one of the best hikes of your life.
Here’s what to wear.
The Non-Negotiables
A waterproof rain jacket is the single most important thing you’ll pack. Not water-resistant — waterproof, with a hood, taped seams, and enough coverage to handle a genuine Southeast Alaska downpour. Don’t leave the ship or hotel without it.
Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support and aggressive traction are equally essential. Ketchikan’s trails are rooted, rocky, and often muddy. Trail runners can work on groomed paths, but a proper waterproof boot keeps your feet dry and your ankles stable on technical terrain.
Waterproof or water-resistant pants round out your lower half. Leave the jeans behind — wet denim is cold, heavy, and genuinely miserable on a rainforest trail.
Layer Everything Else
Temperatures in Ketchikan range from the low 40s to the mid-60s°F in summer, and conditions change fast. Build your outfit in layers:
- Base layer: Moisture-wicking synthetic or merino wool. No cotton, ever — it holds moisture against your skin and loses its ability to insulate when wet.
- Mid layer: A fleece jacket or lightweight insulated vest you can easily stow in your pack when you’re working hard on the trail.
- Outer layer: Your waterproof rain jacket over everything.
Small Things That Make a Big Difference
- Merino wool hiking socks — stay warm even when damp, resist odor, dry faster than cotton
- Wool or synthetic beanie — you lose a lot of heat through your head in cool, wet conditions
- Gloves or liner gloves — fingers get cold fast when wet
- A dry bag or pack cover — protect your phone, camera, and extra layers
Pack smart, embrace the rain, and enjoy one of the most stunning hiking environments in North America.
