Douglas Island

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Douglas Island lies just across the Gastineau Channel from downtown Juneau and offers a quieter, more natural atmosphere. The island is known for its beaches, forest trails, and scenic views back toward the city and surrounding mountains.

What to See & Do

  • 🏖️ Walk along Sandy Beach, a rare sandy stretch made from historic mine tailings 🌊
  • ⛏️ Explore the Treadwell Mine Historic Trail to see ruins of the world’s once-largest gold mine 📜
  • 🏙️ Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Juneau skyline and cruise ships from the shore 🚢
  • 🌲 Hike the Rainforest Trail through old-growth Sitka spruce and western hemlocks 🍃
  • 🐋 Spot marine life including humpback whales and sea lions in the Gastineau Channel 🌊
  • 🐕 Experience summer dog sledding on wheels through the lush island forests 🐾

How to Get There

  • 🚗 Cross the Juneau-Douglas Bridge, just a 5-minute drive from downtown Juneau 🛣️
  • 🚕 Catch a short taxi or rideshare to Savikko Park or North Douglas 🏨
  • 🚌 Take local Bus Route 1 or 11, which serves the Douglas community and Sandy Beach 🚐
  • 🚲 Bike across the bridge for a scenic commute with dedicated pedestrian lanes 🏁

Travel Tips

  • 🧥 Bring a windproof jacket as the coastal breeze across the channel can be chilly 🌬️
  • 🌊 Visit Sandy Beach during low tide to explore the widest area of the shoreline 📉
  • 🐻 Stay “bear aware” while hiking the Treadwell Ditch or Rainforest trails 🌲
  • 🧭 Respect the historic ruins; stay on marked paths to protect the artifacts and yourself 🛡️

Suggested Itinerary

  • 🌉 14:00 – Cross the Douglas Bridge and head to Savikko Park 🚗
  • ⛏️ 14:30 – Walk the Treadwell Mine Historic Trail to see the “Glory Hole” and ruins 🏚️
  • 🏖️ 15:30 – Relax at Sandy Beach and photograph the Juneau skyline and Mount Roberts 📸
  • 🏙️ 17:00 – Grab a pizza at the local Island Pub before returning to Juneau 🍕

Opening Hours & Entry

Open:

Daily: All day access to public areas

Entry Fee:

Free

Best Time to Visit:

Morning or early evening

Location

📌 Douglas Island, Juneau, Alaska, USA

👉 View on Google Maps

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