Deer Mountain Trail in Ketchikan, Alaska will work off the cruiseship buffets. Within walking distance of Ketchikan's cruiseship docks, this trail goes straight up Deer Mountain. The steep trail was originally used as access to the ski area and is located in the Tongass National Forest, Ketchikan-Misty Fiords Ranger District.
ACCESS: To access the trailhead parking area, walk or drive up the Ketchikan Lakes Road for 1/2 mile, to the junction with the street to the landfill. Turn left and the parking area is 100 feet northeast (towards the mountain) of the junction. Or better yet, hail a cab. ($7.50) June through September
ATTRACTIONS: Old growth forest covers the lower elevations; the trail passes beneath a canopy of Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and red cedar. Above the treeline there is alpine vegetation -- low, scrubby plants such as dwarf blueberry, heathers, and other high-altitude flowers. Wildlife includes black bear, mountain goats, Sitka black-tail deer, red squirrels, ptarmigan, and many other bird species.
There are dramatic views of Annette, Pennock, Gravina and Prince of Wales Island from an overlook one mile up the trail. Even better views are available at the old ski hut site, the first plateau above the timber line, and on the summits.
MAPS: USGS Ketchikan B-5.
LENGTH: 2.5 mi. to summit.
DESCRIPTION: From the Deer Mountain trailhead there is gravel and boardwalk through a short section of muskeg; then the trail begins a steep climb to the summit. While there are brief sections of boardwalk or wood stairs, most of the trail is natural tread. There are many switchbacks, and the trail is very steep. The Deer Mountain summit and the A-frame shelter are popular destinations for locals and visitors.
The shelter is located in the saddle between the Deer Mountain summit and the next summit to the northeast. Overnight use of the cabin requires a permit.
HISTORY: The trail to Deer Mountain Summit was used in the 1930's to provide access to a ski hut on the upper flank of the mountain. Deer Mountain Trail was selected as a National Recreation Trail in 1978.
DIFFICULTY: Difficult, uneven, steep.
TRIP TIME: 2.5 hours to summit only (one way)
ELEVATION GAIN: The Deer Mountain peak visible from downtown Ketchikan is 3,001 feet above sea level. Ketchikan, a port town is at 0 feet, therefore the elevation gain is 3,001 feet.
SAFETY: The weather can change rapidly in this area. Be prepared for all weather conditions including strong winds, snow, and low visibility due to fog and rain. Check the local forecast before you leave.
Tongass National Forest experts recommend that you take these items -- even on short day hikes:
- raingear
- matches and fire-starter knife
- shelter
- map and compass "first aid kit
- extra food
- signal mirror, flares and a whistle
Enjoy this article? Receive e-mail alerts when new hiking articles are available. Just click on the “Subscribe to get instant updates” link above. Learn more hiking tips at www.vagabondinglulu.com
Comments