Summary
Accessibility to Misty Fjords
Misty Fjords is located approximately 20 miles from Ketchikan and can only be reached by ship or plane. Small cruise ships featuring Inside Passage itineraries frequently include a day of sailing in this splendid park. Moreover, air excursions are available from Ketchikan.
About Misty Fjords National Monument
Designated as a National Monument in 1978, Misty Fjords is nestled within the vast Tongass National Forest in Southeast Alaska. The area is renowned for its awe-inspiring granite cliffs that rise dramatically toward the sky, veiled by misty clouds that blanket the surrounding lush rainforest. Consequently, wildlife thrives here, and the tranquil waters provide a serene escape from the outside world. The only interruptions in this peaceful environment are the many flight-seeing planes circulating like giant mosquitoes.
Misty Fjords Kayak Rangers
Before entering the pristine waters of Misty Fjords, the Spirit of Yorktown made a stop near a secluded cove to rescue two young women serving as summer rangers in the area. They resided in a floating A-frame cabin anchored in the cove, a choice that adapts well to the high tides of Misty Fjords, which can fluctuate by up to 20 feet. This accommodation strategy also offers some protection from local wildlife, including bears.
These rangers utilize kayaks for mobility within the park, maintaining trails and conducting wildlife surveys. A larger vessel collects them weekly to return to Ketchikan for rest and to replenish their supplies. They possess extensive knowledge about the flora and fauna of Southeast Alaska and shared fascinating stories about the local wildlife, including encounters with the playful bears.
Scenic Rudyerd Bay
Rudyerd Bay is undoubtedly the most picturesque area in Misty Fjords. Surrounded by towering granite cliffs and bursting with vibrant wildlife, it attracts a multitude of vessels and floatplanes. Picture the breathtaking scenery as you cruise along the bay, taking in the remarkable views.
Exploring the Punchbowl
By definition, a fjord is formed in a valley shaped by a retreating glacier, now submerged by the sea. The famous “Punchbowl” shape of the staggering 3,000-foot granite cliff within Rudyerd Bay serves as a striking example of such glacier activity. Notably, this natural wonder showcases how glaciers can sculpt even the sturdiest of cliffs.
The overall experience of Misty Fjords is both inspiring and tranquil, providing visitors with an unrivaled opportunity to engage deeply with Southeast Alaska’s majestic landscapes.
