プリンスオブウェールズ-ハイダー国勢調査地域のおすすめウォーキング＆ハイキングルート

On a clear day you can easily see Ketchikan sprawling below you from the summit of Deer Mountain. Ketchikan International Airport is also visible just across the water, on neighboring Gravina Island. As always when running in Alaska, you should be alert to the risk of unexpected wildlife encounters, and the possibility of fast-moving, rapidly changing weather.

For many visitors, the Rainbird trail is most easily accessed from the Third Avenue trailhead, closer to the cruise ship docks. However, if you have a rental car, this parking area at the University of Alaska Southeast makes a convenient starting place — or a turnaround spot, if you started running back on Third Avenue.

Canada's northernmost ice-free port.

Part of the Balls Trail loop passes through Eagles Nest Campground, before rejoining the natural tread trail around the lake. Watch for wildlife, large and small, from bald eagles and black bears to tiny toadlets in the undergrowth.

This short interpretive loop is accessible. Look for signs that describe the salmon lifecycle that occurs in the nearby stream.

The Balls Lake Trail loops around the north end of the lake, then connects with the Eagles Nest Campground, before returning to the Balls Lake Picnic Area. You can start and end this hike from either the picnic area or the campground. Rubber boots or other waterproof footwear may be a good idea on this hike; parts of the trail are often quite wet. Watch for waterfowl on the lake, bald eagles in the trees, and terrestrial animals like black bears and black-tailed deer.

For many visitors, the Rainbird trail is most easily accessed from the Third Avenue trailhead, closer to the cruise ship docks. However, if you have a rental car, this parking area at the University of Alaska Southeast makes a convenient starting place — or a turnaround spot, if you started hiking back on Third Avenue. If you decide you don't want to hike all the way back, you can even call a taxi to pick you up here.

The Cape Fox Lodge is one of the finest hotels in Ketchikan, owned by one of the local Alaska Native corporations. Even if you're not staying there, take a moment to step inside and visit both the gift shop and the mini-museum for a glimpse of truly fine, authentic Alaska Native artwork. The lodge windows also offer remarkable vistas overlooking Ketchikan and the water beyond.