Thorne Bay AlaskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Thorne Bay, Alaska.
1. El Capitan Cave
UNDERGROUND LIMESTONE WONDERLAND
El Capitan Cave is one of the premier attractions near Thorne Bay, offering visitors a chance to explore Alaska's fascinating underground limestone formations. The cave system features impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and unique geological features formed over thousands of years. Guided spelunking tours are available for adventure-seekers wanting to discover this natural wonder within the Tongass National Forest.
2. Sandy Beach Recreation Area
SCENIC COASTAL RETREAT
Sandy Beach Recreation Area provides visitors with a beautiful shoreline escape perfect for beachcombing, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The area features pristine beaches, facilities for day use, and stunning views of Clarence Strait. Nature enthusiasts can explore the old-growth forests of Sitka Spruce that border the beach while enjoying the peaceful coastal atmosphere.
3. Balls Lake Trail and Picnic Site
SERENE FOREST HIKING
Balls Lake Trail and Picnic Site offers visitors a peaceful nature experience with well-maintained hiking paths through the Tongass National Forest. The trail circles a picturesque lake and provides multiple spots for wildlife viewing and photography. Picnic facilities make this an ideal location for families and outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in Southeast Alaska's natural beauty.
4. The Claw Welcome Sign
ICONIC LOGGING MONUMENT
The Claw Welcome Sign is Thorne Bay's unique landmark featuring the world's largest log-handling grapple that pays homage to the town's logging heritage. This impressive structure serves as both a welcome monument and a reminder of Thorne Bay's past as North America's largest logging camp in the 1960s and 70s. Visitors often stop to photograph this distinctive symbol of the community's timber industry roots.
5. Eagles Nest Campground
FORESTED WATERFRONT CAMPING
Eagles Nest Campground is a popular USFS-maintained camping destination offering waterfront sites near Thorne Bay. The campground provides essential facilities while maintaining a rustic atmosphere that allows visitors to connect with Southeast Alaska's natural environment. Campers enjoy easy access to fishing, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities in the surrounding Tongass National Forest.
6. Thorne River
PREMIER FISHING WATERS
The Thorne River offers world-class freshwater fishing opportunities just minutes from downtown Thorne Bay. Anglers can target various salmon species, trout, and other gamefish in these productive waters flowing through pristine forest landscapes. The river holds historical significance as the discovery site of the 5,360-year-old Thorne River Basket, an archeologically important artifact now preserved in the Alaska State Museum.
7. Salt Chuck Trail
COASTAL FOREST PATH
Salt Chuck Trail provides hikers with a scenic route through coastal forests near Thorne Bay with opportunities for wildlife spotting. The trail offers varying terrain and viewpoints overlooking saltwater inlets and tidal areas. Birdwatchers particularly enjoy this trail for the diversity of species that can be observed in the transition zones between forest and shoreline.
8. Big Lake Fish Pass
WILDLIFE VIEWING HOTSPOT
Big Lake Fish Pass is a natural channel where visitors can observe salmon during spawning season and other wildlife throughout the year. The area provides excellent photography opportunities with scenic viewpoints overlooking the water passage. This location serves as both a recreational site and an important ecological area demonstrating the interconnectedness of Southeast Alaska's marine and freshwater ecosystems.
9. Adventure Alaska Southeast
GUIDED WILDERNESS EXPERIENCES
Adventure Alaska Southeast offers guided fishing, kayaking, and wildlife excursions from their base in Thorne Bay. Their experienced guides provide customized adventures that showcase the best of Prince of Wales Island's natural attractions and wildlife. Visitors can choose from half-day to multi-day expeditions tailored to different skill levels and interests.
10. The Boardwalk Lodge
LUXURY WILDERNESS RETREAT
The Boardwalk Lodge combines luxury accommodations with premier access to Thorne Bay's outdoor adventures, specializing in guided fishing experiences. The lodge features comfortable rooms, gourmet dining featuring fresh local seafood, and comprehensive packages for fishing enthusiasts. Guests enjoy personalized service and expert guides who showcase the best fishing spots around Prince of Wales Island.
11. Thorne Bay Market
LOCAL GROCERIES & SUPPLIES
Thorne Bay Market serves as the community's primary grocery store offering essentials, local products, and supplies for visitors and residents alike. The market stocks fishing gear, outdoor equipment, and specialty Alaskan food items that showcase regional flavors. Travelers appreciate this convenient stop for provisioning before heading out to explore the surrounding wilderness areas.
12. Kasaan Totem Historic District
NATIVE CULTURAL HERITAGE
The Kasaan Totem Historic District, located near Thorne Bay on Prince of Wales Island, preserves the cultural heritage of the Haida people through authentic totem poles and a restored clan house. Visitors can walk a scenic trail through old-growth forest to reach the historic Chief Son-i-Hat Whale House and surrounding totem poles. This significant cultural site offers insight into the indigenous artistic traditions and history of Southeast Alaska.
13. Tongass Trading Company
HISTORIC ALASKAN RETAILER
Tongass Trading Company in nearby Ketchikan is a historic establishment dating back to 1898 that offers visitors authentic Alaskan souvenirs, outdoor gear, and local products. The store features multiple departments including clothing, hardware, sporting goods, and Alaska-themed gifts. Many travelers from Thorne Bay make the trip to this iconic retailer for its comprehensive selection and historic atmosphere.
14. Cape Fox Lodge
PANORAMIC DINING EXPERIENCE
Cape Fox Lodge's restaurant in Ketchikan offers spectacular views of the harbor while serving fresh Alaskan seafood and regional specialties. The dining establishment features large windows overlooking the Tongass Narrows, creating a memorable setting for enjoying local cuisine. Visitors from Thorne Bay often schedule a meal here during trips to Ketchikan for its combination of scenic vistas and authentic Alaskan flavors.
15. Misty Fjords National Monument
MAJESTIC GLACIAL LANDSCAPES
Misty Fjords National Monument showcases dramatic sea cliffs, waterfalls, and fjords carved by ancient glaciers, accessible by boat or floatplane from Ketchikan near Thorne Bay. This two-million-acre wilderness area features 3,000-foot vertical granite walls, lush rainforest, and diverse wildlife including bears, eagles, and marine mammals. Many visitors from Thorne Bay take day trips to experience this breathtaking landscape often described as Alaska's answer to Yosemite for its awe-inspiring natural beauty.