The northwest temperate rainforest is as lush and alive as the rainforests of the Amazon, without most of the things that kill you. The cool, rainy climate is perfect for the unique Sitka Spruce and under their canopy an abundance of wildlife, flowers, and berries flourish. Sitka boasts an excellent hiking route that is easily accessible from downtown and a favorite of locals: the Indian River Falls Trial. At 4.5 miles one-way and with a mere 1000 feet of elevation, this trail is moderate and great for a casual day hike with family and friends. Allot about 2-3 hours each way for a full day soaking in the beauty of the rainforest.

The Indian River Trailhead is 0.4 miles down Indian River Road and there’s a parking lot on the right. Map here.

Indian River Trail starts a short drive from downtown Sitka. There is a community bus from downtown to the trailhead that runs every sixty minutes from May to September.
USDA Forest Service Alaska | Flickr
The Indian River Falls Trial follows the turquoise blue Indian River up a valley to a magnificent waterfall. It is a moderate 8.4 mile trail used by visitors and locals alike for hiking and trail running, and is accessible year round.
robin-and-david | Flickr
Most of the trail runs through second-growth forest that is between 75–150 years old. You’ll see large Sitka spruce, Alaska yellow cedar, and western hemlock that form a canopy to protect the rainforest floor below.
ah zut | Flickr
The trail follows the river for most of the journey, opening up to an area of muskeg with a boardwalk. Then the last mile there is some boulder hopping across a creek to the access the waterfall.
Greg McMichael | Flickr
Salmonberries are a local favorite and are found in this area. In early August they ripen to a bright combination of yellow and orange.
Eric Heath | Flickr

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The river is full of Pacific Pink Salmon, Trout (Cutthroat and Rainbow), and Dolly Varden. Fishing is prohibited, but there are a few swimming spots if you want to brave the icy water.
Tom Lianza | Flickr
The forest is a protected place to see wildlife including deer, a wide variety of birds and occasionally a bear.
USDA Forest Service Alaska | Flickr
Where there are salmon, there are bears. Sitka brown bears have their own trail on the other side of the river, so it’s rare to encounter one on this hike.
Patrick Denker | Flickr
Take the normal precautions of hiking in the middle of the day, making lots of noise, sealing up food containers and traveling in groups.
The trail ends at the staggering 70-foot tall Indian River Falls. Bring a picnic to enjoy while listening to the falls.
robin-and-david | Flickr
Enjoy the beautiful Indian River Trail through the rainforest in Sitka.
ajburcar | Flickr

Check out these These 20 Trails In Alaska Will Lead You To Unforgettable Places and 14 Easy Hikes To Add To Your Outdoor Bucket List In Alaska.

Have you hiked the Indian River Trail? Tell us about it in the comments below.

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