Tongass National Forest

Alaska Marine Highway Interpretive Programs

Set Sail Through Your National Forest

Did you know that ships on the Alaska Marine Highway sail through America’s largest national forest, taking passengers through some of the most breathtaking and awe inspiring scenery in the world? In Southeast Alaska, ferries travel through the Tongass National Forest – a forest of islands. At nearly 17 million acres, the Tongass National Forest is the largest protected temperate rainforest in the world!

Take along a guide

What could be better than discovering these treasures while riding the Alaska Marine Highway? Discovering these treasures with a knowledgeable and friendly Forest Service interpreter! Throughout the summer months, Forest Service interpreters are on board sailing throughout Southeast Alaska. For over 35 years, this partnership between the Forest Service and the Alaska Marine Highway has helped passengers understand and enjoy the natural and cultural history of their national forests and Alaska.

See you on board

Once you board the ferry, look for the Forest Service information desk. Here you can usually find an interpreter waiting to answer your question, pick up a brochure on a topic of interest and find out what programs are scheduled for the day. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the wildlife, forests, geology, glaciers, marine mammals, people, and the history of the area. If you need any help spotting points of interest along the way, just ask. Don’t worry about the younger passengers, because there’s something for them too! Activities and special programs for children are available for our young and young at heart passengers.

Check out the locals

Besides the spectacular scenery, Alaska’s national forests are also home to plentiful wildlife – much of which can be seen from the water. While on board the Alaska Marine Highway, keep your eyes open for some of the area’s most interesting residents, including whales, sea lions, porpoises, eagles, and bears, just to name a few.