Misty Fjords National Monument – Ketchikan, Alaska

Misty Fjords National Monument is one of the most spectacular natural wonders in Southeast Alaska, known for its towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and deep, glacier‑carved fjords. A visit to Misty Fjords National Monument gives travelers a breathtaking wilderness experience, with dramatic scenery that can only be reached by boat or floatplane from Ketchikan.

Fun Facts

• Misty Fjords spans over 2.3 million acres of protected wilderness.
• The fjords were carved by glaciers over thousands of years, leaving sheer cliffs rising 3,000 feet above the water.
• The area is part of the Tongass National Forest, the largest temperate rainforest in the world.
• The monument is named for the near‑constant mist and low clouds that drift through the fjords.
• Wildlife includes bears, mountain goats, seals, porpoises, whales, and bald eagles.
• The iconic New Eddystone Rock, a volcanic spire, rises dramatically from the water.
• Many boat tours travel through Rudyerd Bay, one of the most photographed fjords.
• The only ways to visit are by boat tour or floatplane flightseeing.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Visitors experience Misty Fjords by cruising through narrow fjords surrounded by towering cliffs, waterfalls, and lush rainforest. Boat tours offer narration about geology, wildlife, and the area’s natural history, with plenty of opportunities for photography.

Floatplane tours provide a bird’s‑eye view of the fjords, lakes, and cliffs, often with a water landing in a remote cove. The scenery is dramatic, peaceful, and unforgettable.

Most tours last 2.5–4 hours, depending on the type of excursion.

Why It’s Worth Visiting

Misty Fjords National Monument is perfect for travelers who want a bucket‑list wilderness experience with dramatic scenery and abundant wildlife. It’s one of the most awe‑inspiring landscapes in Alaska and a highlight for many cruise visitors.

Where It’s Located

Misty Fjords lies 40–50 miles east of Ketchikan, deep within the Tongass National Forest.

How to Get There From the Cruise Port

• Boat tour: Departs from Ketchikan harbor; the most popular option.
• Floatplane: Offers the fastest and most dramatic views.
• Combination tours: Some include both boat and plane segments.
• Taxi or shuttle: Only needed if your tour departs from a secondary marina.

Best Time to Visit

• June–August offers the best weather and visibility.
• Morning flights often have calmer air.
• Midday provides bright light for photography.
• Rainy days create dramatic mist and waterfalls — perfect for atmosphere.

Tips for Visiting

• Bring a camera — the scenery is spectacular.
• Wear layers — it can be cool on the water or in the air.
• Choose a floatplane for aerial views and a shorter excursion.
• Choose a boat tour for a relaxed, immersive experience.
• Watch for New Eddystone Rock — a highlight of many tours.
• Book early — Misty Fjords excursions sell out quickly.

Common Complaints

• Weather can limit visibility or cause cancellations.
• Tours can feel long for travelers who prefer fast‑paced activities.
• Wildlife sightings vary by day.
• Floatplane tours may feel expensive — but are often considered worth it.

Final Thoughts

Misty Fjords National Monument is one of the most breathtaking and unforgettable wilderness areas in Alaska. With towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and serene fjords, Misty Fjords National Monument is a must‑visit for cruise travelers who want a dramatic, once‑in‑a‑lifetime adventure from Ketchikan.

For more ideas to plan your day, explore my full guide to the top things to do in Ketchikan.