Misty Fjords National Monument Wilderness

Misty Fjords National Monument Wilderness spans over 2.1 million acres of remote backcountry in southeast Alaska. The landscape is defined by deep fjords, temperate rainforest, alpine terrain, and rugged coastal geography shaped by glaciation. This is genuine wilderness—no roads, motorized access, or mechanized travel are permitted.

Recreation here centers on backpacking, hiking, and camping in one of Alaska's most isolated settings. Many visitors reach the area by floatplane or boat, then travel on foot through old-growth forest and along waterways. Solitude is the primary draw; this is not a destination for crowds or developed trails.

Visiting demands serious wilderness preparation. You must be entirely self-sufficient, practice Leave No Trace principles, and navigate rugged terrain often in wet conditions. Access typically requires charter floatplane or boat service from nearby towns. The season is short and weather unpredictable; summer (June through September) offers the most stable conditions, though rain and fog are common. Winter travel is feasible but requires mountaineering experience and cold-weather skills. This wilderness is managed by the Forest Service and reserved for those ready to embrace true backcountry travel.