Mendenhall Glacier visitor improvements
The Tongass National Forest seeks public comment on the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Facility Improvements Project draft environmental impact statement.
Welcome to the Tongass National Forest
The Tongass is the nation’s largest national forest and covers most of Southeast Alaska, surrounding the famous Inside Passage and offers unique chances to view eagles, bears, spawning salmon, and the breath-taking vistas of “wild” Alaska. Hike or take a sled-dog ride on a glacier, stroll along boardwalk trails, learn about fisheries management, fish in streams or the ocean, or relax at a remote cabin. If spying some truly wild wildlife is on your bucket list, visit the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center and Steep Creek Bear Viewing area in Juneau, Anan Wildlife Observatory in Wrangell, Fish Creek Bear Viewing Area in Hyder, or Pack Creek Brown Bear Viewing Area on Admiralty Island, or immerse yourself in native culture at the stunning Southeast Alaska Discovery Center, located just steps away from the cruise ship docks in downtown Ketchikan.
Over the next two months, District Offices on the Tongass National Forest will be opening their doors as front office staff return from maximum telework. Check with your local Ranger District for more details.
Recent News
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Situk River Federal subsistence Chinook Salmon fishery closed
Release Date: May 12, 2022 Yakutat, Alaska
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World Migratory Bird Day celebration planned for Juneau
Release Date: May 10, 2022 Juneau, AK
Features
Southeast Alaska Sustainability Strategy (SASS)

Engaging communities and sustaining economies. After consultation with Tribal Nations and Alaska Native corporations and engagement in a public process to explore investment ideas from Southeast Alaska communities, over 270 investment ideas collectively valued at $276 million were proposed. While not every idea or proposal can be included in the initial investment, the input, ideas, and conversations reflect the deep need for equitable economic stimulus in the region.
Prince of Wales Landscape Level Analysis Project (POW LLA)

The process for implementation of the activities authorized by the POW LLA Final Record Of Decision will be guided by input from the tribes and the public, and maintained within a ‘living document’. This document will be adjusted as public input helps determine the location and types of activities, as well as how extensively they will occur across the landscape.
Spotlights
Students learn about Federal Subsistence Board process

High schoolers enroll in a dual enrollment class that teaches students about important role that natural resources play in their way of life.
Juneau District record breaking cabin and shelter visitor use

The Juneau Ranger District set new records for use of many of its recreation facilities over the past two years.
Tongass National Forest Visitor Guide 2020

The Tongass has something for everyone. Explore, renew, and refresh among the islands and along the coastline and take home exciting memories of adventures in Alaska.
State of The Tongass FY20

We believe our approach to stewardship should be integrated and collaborative, with community involvement from development to implementation in order to meet the needs of our customers.