The best road cycling routes in Tongass National Forest

Tongass National Forest offers a remarkable variety of terrain for road cycling. You can experience rides from sea level along dramatic coastlines to areas with significant elevation gain in mountainous regions. Routes traverse dense green forests, glacial fjords, and lush valleys, often on paved roads or dedicated bike paths. The region is known for its spectacular rugged mountains and expansive forests of cedar, spruce, and hemlock.

Yes, there are several options suitable for families and beginners. For example, the Juneau to Mendenhall Loop Road is an easy 26.1-mile route offering views of the Mendenhall Glacier area. The Airport Dike Trail (Mendenhall Refuge Trail) is also a wheelchair-accessible and paved trail, excellent for easy cycling and bird watching. Additionally, the Ward Lake Trail near Ketchikan is a mostly flat, gravel path, about 1 mile long, popular for its accessibility.

Several areas within Tongass National Forest offer excellent road cycling. Juneau is a popular starting point, with routes like the Juneau to Mendenhall Loop Road and the Auke Lake to Eagle Beach. Sitka is recognized as a bike-friendly community with 14 miles of paved roads. Prince of Wales Island is also noted for its nearly 300 miles of paved roads with decent shoulders and relatively low traffic.

Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, the Skagway to White Pass route is a difficult 25.9-mile path featuring a substantial elevation gain through mountainous terrain. On Douglas Island, cycling towards Eaglecrest Road offers a challenging 1000-foot elevation gain over 5 miles.

The Tongass National Forest is teeming with wildlife. Cyclists have opportunities to spot eagles, bears (black and brown), spawning salmon, Sitka black-tailed deer, wolves, mountain goats, moose, and diverse bird species. Along coastal waters, marine mammals like Dall's and harbor porpoises, harbor seals, sea otters, orcas, and humpback and minke whales can be seen.

Yes, the region is rich with scenic beauty. The Juneau to Mendenhall Loop Road offers views of the iconic Mendenhall Glacier Viewpoint. Douglas Island routes provide beautiful coastline views, and you might even spot whales near False Outer Point. The forest itself, with its towering Sitka spruce and western hemlock trees, offers immersive experiences in the world's largest intact temperate rainforest.

While specific weather conditions can vary, the best season for road cycling in Tongass National Forest is generally during the warmer, drier months, typically from late spring through early fall. This period offers more favorable weather, longer daylight hours, and better road conditions, allowing for a more enjoyable experience amidst the lush landscapes.

Yes, there are circular routes to explore. For instance, the Cope Park – Alaska State Capitol loop from car parking and the Cope Park – Alaska State Capitol loop from Juneau are both easy loop trails in the Juneau area, offering a convenient way to experience the local scenery.

E-bikes, specifically Class 1, 2, and 3, are generally allowed on motorized trails and roads within Tongass National Forest. However, it's important to note that wilderness areas are off-limits to all vehicles, including bicycles and e-bikes, to protect natural resources.

Generally, specific permits are not required for road cycling on most forest roads in Tongass National Forest. However, it's always advisable to check with the local Forest Service office for any specific area restrictions or temporary closures that might be in place, especially if you plan to venture into less common areas.

The Tongass National Forest is home to unique natural features, including glacial fjords, rich estuaries, and expansive forests of majestic cedar, spruce, and hemlock. You can cycle through areas where tidewater glaciers spill down from mountains, such as near the Mendenhall Glacier. The forest is also the world's largest intact temperate rainforest, offering lush vegetation with moss, ferns, and lichens draping trees.

Yes, many routes offer stunning views of both lakes and mountains. The Juneau to Mendenhall Loop Road provides views of the Mendenhall Glacier and its associated lake. Routes near Juneau and Sitka often feature dramatic backdrops of rugged mountains. You can also explore areas with highlights like Upper Dewey Lake or various mountain peaks such as Summit of Deer Mountain.