The Tongass National Forest is a vast, temperate rainforest in Alaska known for its diverse wildlife and old-growth trees. - National Forest Official Website
Details
Tongass National Forest
The Tongass National Forest is located in southeastern Alaska and is the largest national forest in the United States, covering an area of approximately 16.7 million acres. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and abundant wildlife.
Features:
The Tongass National Forest is home to towering mountains, lush rainforests, pristine rivers, and countless islands and fjords.
It contains over 5,000 glaciers, which make up nearly one-third of all the glaciers in the United States.
The forest is also home to a variety of wildlife, including brown bears, wolves, bald eagles, and salmon.
Visitors to the Tongass National Forest can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.
Ecological Significance:
The Tongass National Forest is one of the last remaining temperate rainforests in the world, with an annual rainfall of up to 150 inches in some areas.
It is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world.
The forest plays a crucial role in regulating the global climate, as its trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen through photosynthesis.
Additionally, the Tongass National Forest provides important habitat for endangered species, such as the Alexander Archipelago wolf and the Queen Charlotte goshawk.
Tongass National Forest
Points of Interest
Most Popular Points of Interest in Tongass National Forest
Mendenhall Glacier: This stunning glacier located near Juneau is a must-see attraction in Tongass National Forest. Visitors can take a boat tour to get up close to the glacier or hike to one of the nearby viewing points for a breathtaking sight.
Misty Fjords National Monument: Known for its towering cliffs, deep fjords, and misty atmosphere, Misty Fjords is a popular destination for kayaking, boating, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can also take a scenic flight over the monument for a bird's eye view of its beauty.
Tracy Arm Fjord: Another stunning fjord in Tongass National Forest, Tracy Arm is known for its massive glaciers and pristine wilderness. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the glaciers up close or enjoy the scenery from one of the many hiking trails in the area.
Petersburg: This charming fishing town is a popular stop for visitors to Tongass National Forest. Known for its rich history and vibrant culture, Petersburg offers a variety of activities including fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
Wrangell: Another historic town in Tongass National Forest, Wrangell is a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the region's cultural heritage. The town offers a variety of museums, art galleries, and historic sites to explore.
Tongass National Forest – Images
Description: I stopped by the @ForestService Ranger Station in Wrangell for a discussion on a range of issues important to Alaskans, including subsistence salmon fishing, maintaining public use cabins, and cleaning up Zarembo Island.
Image by United States House of Representatives - Office of Don Young – Public domain – Wikimedia
Description: Lena Point Trail, Tongass National Forest, Juneau, Alaska.
Description: Tongass National Forest
Taken by me on en:Douglas Island in the City and Borough of Juneau, Alaska.
Henryhartley 03:06, Sep 20, 2004 (UTC)
Image by The original uploader was Henryhartley at English Wikipedia. – CC BY-SA 3.0 – Wikimedia