What is Alaska's Inside Passage?

Alaska’s Inside Passage is a breathtaking coastal route that stretches along the state’s southeastern edge, winding through a maze of narrow waterways, forested islands, and deep fjords. This scenic corridor spans roughly 500 miles from the northern tip of British Columbia to the Gulf of Alaska, offering some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in North America.

Sheltered by a series of islands, the Inside Passage provides calm, protected waters, making it a popular route for cruise ships, ferries, and even adventurous kayakers. Along the way, travelers are treated to dramatic mountain backdrops, icy blue glaciers, waterfalls cascading down cliff faces, and thick rainforests that meet the shoreline.

The region is part of the Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the United States and one of the world’s few remaining temperate rainforests. Towering spruce, hemlock, and cedar trees drape the landscape, and the air is often filled with the scent of moss and ocean mist.

The Inside Passage is also home to a rich array of wildlife. It's not uncommon to spot humpback whales breaching, orcas cruising along the surface, sea lions basking on rocky outcrops, and bald eagles soaring overhead. The mix of marine and land ecosystems makes this area a haven for wildlife watchers and nature lovers alike.

Charming port towns dot the route, each with its own story. Juneau, the state capital, is accessible only by boat or plane and is nestled between mountains and the sea. Ketchikan, often called the “Salmon Capital of the World,” is also known for its vibrant Native culture and impressive collection of totem poles. Skagway, once a booming Gold Rush town, still holds echoes of its 19th-century past with wooden boardwalks and restored historic buildings.

Glacier viewing is a highlight of any Inside Passage journey. Massive rivers of ice—like those in Glacier Bay National Park and Tracy Arm Fjord—can be seen calving into the sea, sending thunderous echoes across the fjords. These icy giants are both humbling and majestic, reminders of the region’s ancient geological forces.

With its mix of rugged wilderness, peaceful waterways, and cultural richness, the Inside Passage offers a journey that feels timeless. Whether experienced by ship, small boat, or floatplane, this remote stretch of Alaska reveals nature at its most raw and beautiful.