FAQs about the Natural History of the Inside Passage

Sitka Spruce Source: Oregon State University

13. What are the tallest trees in Southeast Alaska? In Alaska in general?

The ancient forests of the Pacific Northwest, containing as many as 25 different species of conifers, are dominated by only a few. The stately coast redwood, with the largest of all at 367 feet, dominates in northern California. Coast Douglas fir, which can grow up to 300 feet, dominates in Oregon, Washington, and inland British Columbia. The Sitka spruce dominates southeast Alaska and coastal British Columbia. Sitka spruces grow exceedingly fast in the rain forests of Southeast Alaska, with most of the largest specimens only 400-700 years old. A Sitka spruce near Exchange Cove on Prince of Wales Island is perhaps the tallest tree in the state at 185 feet. Taking second place is a western hemlock standing 150 feet tall on Admiralty Island and a 132 foot black cottonwood provides a lofty perch for eagles in Haines. The Sitka spruce is the State Tree of Alaska and its wood is world-famous for combining strength and elasticity.

Additonal Resources:

National Register of Big Trees

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