If you want a fun trail hiking across a boardwalk until you reach beautiful views, the Connell Lake Trail in Ketchikan, Alaska is a fantastic day hike for skills of all ages! The trail boasts incredible sights throughout the whole hike, so no matter how far you go, you’ll enjoy the scenery that surrounds you.

Ketchikan has many fabulous trails for you to hike.
Heidi Levielle / AllTrails
Located inside the Tongass National Forest, there's so much to see and do. This beautiful trail travels over many boardwalks, keeping your feet dry during the wet days you can find in this area.
This hike is a combination of boardwalks and groomed, natural trail.
Sandra Kinzer / AllTrails
There's also a number of beautiful wooden bridges that seem to fit perfectly in with the surrounding landscape. These cross a number of streams so that you can cross them safely, and stay dry during your hike.
The trail is an easy out-and-back trail, following along the shoreline of Connell Lake, and ending at Talbot Lake.
Deborah Rose / AllTrails
It's 2.1 miles one way, and the elevation gain is primarily when you head out to the lakes. It will be all downhill on your travels back!

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The total elevation gain is 1,309 feet over the duration of the hike.
Heidi Levielle / AllTrails
When you arrive, there are great spots to have a picnic, or you can fish in Talbot Lake. Spend an hour or two relaxing in this beautiful spot in the Tongass National Forest.
These lakes are located in the Ward Lake Recreation Area, which is very popular with locals.
Debra Stouffer / AllTrails
The Connell Lake Trail is one of the quieter hikes in the recreation area. But you may find kids tubing, or families kayaking or canoeing in the lakes when you arrive!
Many hikers gush about the magical qualities on the trail, especially when the sun shines through the forest canopy.
Heidi Levielle / AllTrails
With moss hanging off the trees, and beautiful bridges around every turn, it's a lovely way to spend a morning or afternoon.
Bring the whole family to experience this easy and fun hike.
Debra Stouffer / AllTrails
There's a parking area right at the head of the trail, so there's plenty of parking. It's only six miles from downtown Ketchikan, so it'll be a short drive for you!

Have you hiked the Connell Lake Trail before? What did you think? Will you do it again next time you’re in Ketchikan? Let us know in the comments below!

If you want to grabs some food before the hike, The Best Breakfast In Ketchikan, Alaska Can Be Devoured At Sweet Mermaids

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Connell Rd, Ketchikan, AK 99901, USA