By Jacqueline Chandler
USDA Forest Service U.S. Department of Agriculture

ALASKA — If someone asks, ‘hey what is so unique about Alaska’s National Forests – the Tongass and the Chugach?”, the hardest part about answering this question might be deciding where to begin.

For example, Alaska includes the largest national forest in the country – the Tongass – and the northernmost, and third largest – the Chugach. Or you might simply share the region’s theme – Alaska’s National Forests- where nature, people and tradition come together – and you would have touched only the surface of what these remarkable forests have to offer.

Nature In Alaska Is Breathtaking!

Alaska’s national forests are celebrated for their pristine, unspoiled nature. Their vast and varied landscapes include temperate rainforests, rugged mountains, glaciers and extensive coastlines. They provide critical habitat for diverse wildlife and plants, a testament to the value of both conservation and human enjoyment.

The Tongass National Forest is one of the world’s largest temperate rainforests—characterized by dense vegetation, towering old-growth trees, and high amounts of rainfall. The city of Ketchikan, located within the Tongass, averages over 150 inches of precipitation annually. In these majestic landscapes, spectacular alpine glaciers can still be seen at work, and glacially carved landscapes, such as fjords and icefields. These features are not only visually stunning but important for studying climate change.

As far as economic impact, the Tongass and Chugach, like most national forests provide multiple benefits to local communities. They provide clean air and water, preserve cultural resources, and conserve land for enjoyment of present and future generations. The Tongass reports contributing to more than 3,700 jobs around minerals and energy, recreation and agency operations. On the Chugach, the forest greatly contributes to recreational activities and services.

Nicknamed the “fun forest” by Forest Service staff, the Chugach National Forest offers a breathtaking landscape in the heart of southcentral Alaska and serves as the backyard for over half of the local residents as well as a coveted destination for hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

Overall, the forests are home to a diverse array of wildlife, including brown and black bears, moose, bald eagles and five species of salmon.

The coastal areas also support marine life, such as sea otters, humpback whales, orcas and seals. The plant life is equally diverse, with ancient trees, vibrant mosses and a variety of understory plants that contribute to the forests’ lush appearance. Significant portions of these forests are designated as wilderness areas, national monuments or have been designated with a protected status to preserve their natural beauty and ecological integrity.

The old-growth forests in these regions also play a crucial role in sequestering carbon, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change. Furthermore, the forests influence local hydrology—water quality and availability—and extensive root systems help maintain soil stability and reduce erosion. They have a significant impact on regional climate, moderating temperatures and influencing weather patterns in southeastern and south-central Alaska.

People Of Alaska

People are drawn to Alaska’s national forests’ diverse recreational opportunities, cultural and historical significance, educational value and the promise of adventure and solitude. These factors combine to create a unique and compelling destination for a wide range of visitors as well as those who call Alaska home.

Dramatic and diverse vistas draw nature lovers and photographers from around the world. The presence of numerous glaciers and icefields, such as the Mendenhall Glacier in Tongass, provides unique and awe-inspiring sights that are rare elsewhere.

These forests offer unparalleled opportunities for outdoor recreation, including wildlife viewing, hiking, fishing, and kayaking.

The forests are also home to Alaskans of many backgrounds, including the Alaska Natives who have called this place home since time immemorial. You can find important Alaska Native cultural sites, events and more, as well as those of Filipino, Russian and Norwegian heritage. The forests also include historical landmarks from the gold rush era, early European exploration and World War II, adding layers of human history to the natural landscape.

With countless trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes, the forests offer something for hikers of all levels. Camping in these scenic areas is a popular activity. Rich fish populations, especially salmon and trout, attract anglers. Hunting is also a traditional and popular activity in designated areas. Kayaking, canoeing and boating in the fjords, rivers and coastal waters provide unique perspectives of the forests and opportunities to explore remote areas.

For those seeking additional adventure, the vast wilderness of Alaska’s national forests provides a sense of exploration and discovery. Activities such as mountaineering, glacier trekking and backcountry skiing offer thrilling experiences. Despite their remote nature, many parts of these forests are accessible via road, boat or small aircraft, making them attractive destinations for adventurers.

Many visitors are drawn to the forests to support and learn about conservation efforts. Educational programs and guided tours provide insights into the forests’ ecosystems and the importance of preserving them. Scientists, students and nature enthusiasts visit the forests for research and study, taking advantage of the unique ecological and geological features. The remote and vast nature of these forests offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Visitors can find solitude, tranquility and a deep connection with nature.

Traditions In Alaska

Alaska’s national forests are known for their rich traditions and culture due to the deep roots of the Indigenous Alaska Native peoples, the preservation and celebration of traditional practices, vibrant oral histories, cultural festivals, educational efforts, integration of traditional knowledge into environmental stewardship and ongoing cultural preservation initiatives. These elements in combination create a living cultural heritage that attracts visitors and enriches the understanding of the forests’ significance.

Southcentral Alaska is home to several Indigenous cultures, each with its own unique traditions, languages and histories. The primary Indigenous groups include the Dena’ina, Ahtna, Eyak, and Sugpiag, also known as the Alutiiq, peoples.

Indigenous Peoples, including the Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian tribes, have also lived in the southeast Alaska region for thousands of years. A deep connection to the land is evident in their traditions, stories and way of life.

The forests contain numerous cultural sites, such as totem poles, ancient village sites and petroglyphs, which offer insights into the history and spiritual beliefs of these communities.

Alaska Native cultures have a tradition of living sustainably off the land—utilizing resources like fish, game and plants in ways that ensure their availability for future generations. This includes practices like subsistence fishing and hunting. Traditional craftsmanship, including carving, weaving and beadwork, is a vital part of the cultural heritage. These skills are passed down through generations and often displayed and celebrated in local art and cultural festivals.

Storytelling is also a crucial aspect of preserving and passing on cultural knowledge. Legends, myths and historical tales are shared orally, keeping the culture and traditions alive and vibrant. Efforts to revitalize and preserve these oral traditions are ongoing, with Indigenous groups actively working to document and share their stories with younger generations and the broader public.

Annual cultural events and festivals celebrate Alaska Native heritage, featuring traditional music, dance, food and art. These gatherings are not only a way to preserve traditions, but also an opportunity to share them with visitors. Potlatches, or ceremonial gatherings, are significant cultural events where families and communities come together to celebrate important occasions, distribute gifts and reinforce social bonds.

Indigenous Knowledge plays a crucial role in environmental stewardship and conservation practices within the forests. Traditional Ecological Knowledge is often integrated into modern management strategies to maintain the health and sustainability of the ecosystems. Efforts to preserve cultural landscapes ensure that traditional practices and sites are protected and respected within the management of national forests.

Language preservation initiatives are crucial as Alaska Native languages are endangered. Programs aimed at teaching and revitalizing these languages help maintain cultural identity and continuity. Engaging younger generations in cultural practices, traditional arts and language learning is essential for the preservation and continuation of Indigenous cultures.

Alaska and its national forests offer a beautiful place to live and visit for a myriad of reasons, offering a unique combination of natural beauty, diverse wildlife, cultural richness and outdoor adventures. Enjoy three, 5-minute Theme Video Vignettes for the story of Alaska’s National Forests – where nature, people and tradition come together.