Fly to Misty Fjords

Granite cliffs, misted mountains, and wilderness stretching beyond the horizon

A flight into one of Alaska’s most extraordinary wilderness landscapes

Just a short flight from Ketchikan, Misty Fjords National Monument reveals one of Southeast Alaska’s most striking natural landscapes.

From the air, sheer granite walls rise thousands of feet above deep fjords, waterfalls spill from high glacial valleys, and mist drifts through mountain passes. The perspective from a seaplane allows the full scale of the region to unfold – from alpine lakes tucked between peaks to dense forests stretching toward the Inside Passage.

Guided by experienced local pilots, each flight offers a calm and immersive way to experience this remarkable corner of Alaska. Routes may vary slightly with weather, light, and wildlife activity, making every journey through the fjords unique.

A Protected Wilderness on a Remarkable Scale

Misty Fjords National Monument spans more than 2.3 million protected acres, forming one of the largest and most pristine wilderness areas in the United States.

Managed by the U.S. Forest Service since its designation in 1978, the region remains largely untouched – a landscape of towering granite cliffs, deep fjords, alpine lakes, and dense forests within the Tongass National Forest.

Along the way, your pilot may point out wildlife often seen in the area, including brown and black bears, mountain goats, bald eagles, humpback whales, and orcas. By the time the flight turns back toward Ketchikan, most guests are still taking in the scale of what they have just experienced.

Duration

1 hour scenic flight or 1.5 hour flight with remote water landing

Aircraft

DeHavilland Beaver or DeHavilland Otter floatplane

Passengers Per Flight

6–10 guests

Departure Location

Ketchikan, Alaska

Best Time to Fly

Spring through early fall

Narration & Guide

Live pilot / guide narration with two-way communication headsets

What makes the Misty Fjords tour unforgettable?

Every passenger enjoys a window seat

Dramatic 3,000-foot granite cliffs rising from the fjords

Waterfalls cascading down mist-covered mountains

Personalized narration from experienced local pilots and guides

Aviation headsets allow conversation with your pilot and fellow guests

Frequent opportunities to spot wildlife in the Tongass National Forest

The Misty Fjords flightseeing tour is ideal for:

  • Nature and wilderness lovers
  • Cruise visitors with limited time in port
  • Photographers seeking dramatic landscapes
  • Families visiting Southeast Alaska
  • Travelers wanting an unforgettable introduction to Alaska’s wild beauty

1.5h Misty Fjords with a water landing $399/person

1h Misty Fjords flightseeing $370/person

A wilderness shaped by glaciers

The Misty Fjords landscape covers more than 2.3 million protected acres, making it one of the largest wilderness areas in the United States.

During the flight, guests may see:

  • Glacially carved fjords stretching deep into the mountains
  • New Eddystone Rock, a dramatic volcanic formation rising from the sea
  • High alpine lakes tucked into mountain valleys
  • Dense forests of the Tongass National Forest
  • Waterfalls plunging thousands of feet into the fjords
  • Wildlife sightings are common and may include bald eagles, mountain goats, black and brown bears, humpback whales, and orcas

Touch down in Alaska’s wilderness

The extended Misty Fjords flight includes the opportunity for a remote water landing on either a tranquil mountain lake or a quiet saltwater inlet.

Depending on the weather and your pilot’s discretion, the aircraft may land on a high-alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks, giving you time to take photographs and experience the landscape’s stillness. At times, landings may take place in a sheltered saltwater inlet, where guests can enjoy sweeping views as the seaplane rests gently on the water.

Guests may also have the opportunity to step onto the aircraft’s floats for photos and a moment to take in the surroundings before continuing the journey.

Begin Your Seawind Adventure

Reach Out & Choose Your Experience

Contact us to book, ask questions, or select a flightseeing tour or charter.

Clear Scheduling & Communication

We confirm flight details and provide transparent updates around timing and weather.

Arrival & Safety Briefing

Meet our team, receive a clear safety briefing, and get comfortable before departure.

Experience Alaska from the Air

Fly confidently with pilots who know these landscapes – and care about your experience.

Misty Fjords Frequently Asked Questions