Take a walk on the wild side — literally — in Tongass National Forest, and marvel at the ferocious beauty of the Alaskan wilderness. At 500 square miles (the size of West Virginia), ‘the Tongass' is the world's largest temperate rain forest, home to majestic mountains, verdant old-growth forest, fjords, bays, islands and streams. Unspoiled natural surroundings are center stage in this tour. Your small group is met on the dock by a seasoned guide (who will accompany you throughout) for the short drive to the trailhead. Step into the ancient forest, fill your lungs with clean, cool air and allow peace and solitude to envelope you. During the three-mile walk, there will be pauses for photos and wildlife sightings. Listen and watch as your experienced guide shares secrets of the forest and leads you to the best viewing spots. During the salmon-spawning season (May through October) you may see enormous bears scoop fish from rushing streams. The very essence of the Tongass is its towering tree canopy, dominated by evergreens, red and yellow cedar, hemlock, and spruce. Here, nearly every intersection is an animal crossing. Birdsong is the lingua franca. Come to this primal place to regain your sense of awe and childlike wonder.