Ketchikan, Alaska
Ketchikan, Alaska, is a picturesque city situated near the southeastern edge of the state. Initially a prominent fishing spot utilized by Alaska natives, it evolved into a vital commercial center for global fishing enterprises during the nineteenth century. Embracing its title as "The Salmon Capital of the World," the city continues to attract visitors for both commercial and sport fishing activities.
The city has a rich heritage of totem poles, meticulously crafted by Native Alaskans, forming the largest collection in the state. While strolling along the waterfront and main streets, visitors will see various totem poles, with the majority displayed in Saxman Village or the Totem Heritage Center.
Downtown Ketchikan offers a blend of shopping, culture, and history, with art galleries, seafood eateries, and the iconic Creek Street all within easy reach.
Many local residents are registered artists and their work can be viewed inside shops, galleries, and in public places around town.
The Cape Fox tram runs every day from the Cape Fox Lodge to Creek Street below and back again. The tram is located on the first floor in the lodge’s main lobby. The views are excellent for a quick ride up/down.
See the Alaskan lumberjacks compete against British Columbia's woodsmen in various lumberjack events to determine the "Bull of the Woods". The competition includes axe-wielding, chainsaw-cutting, speed climbing, and log rolling. The athletes showcase their strength and agility, honoring Alaska's logging history. Spectators can cheer loudly for the competitors, many of whom have competed on ESPN. The event is held on the pier in Ketchikan and easy to reach.
Ketchikan is situated in the heart of the Tongass National Forest, which happens to be the largest forest in the U.S. Exploring the Tongass can be done by cruising along the shores, hiking or biking the nearby trails, flying to remote lake or picnic spots, and joining guided tours. One of the popular activities is the 3-mile hike to Talbot Lake. For a different experience, you can opt for an electric bike ride inland to Connell Lake, enjoying the natural splendor of the surrounding Tongass National Forest. The total roundtrip distance is approximately 6 miles.
Travel 10 miles north of Ketchikan to visit Totem Bight State Historical Park, an 11-acre park featuring ancient totem poles set in a lush rainforest.
Misty Fjords National Monument, is often called the “Yosemite of the North” for its similar geology. Glaciers carved this light-colored granite into deep U-shaped troughs that filled with sea water. Their walls are nearly vertical and often rise 2,000 to 3,000 feet. From above, catch sightings of wildlife in their natural habitat.
Journey to Herring Cove in the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary for wildlife viewing. Set out on the trail of the wild black bears that call this forest home. An elevated boardwalk overlooking Eagle Creek allows you to keep watch for the arrival of bears who come here to fish for salmon. Shoals of fish return to the creek to spawn, which attracts the bears; you may spot other wildlife as they lie in wait, including bald eagles, mink deer and seals. Cap your hike with a walk through the Herring Bay Lumber Company sawmill; then, see birds of prey at the Alaska Raptor Center and meet a native master totem carver and view his collection of works.
Explore the lives of Alaskan fishermen aboard crab-fishing and other vessel’s featured on Deadliest Catch. Meet the brave crew, learn about their experiences at sea, handle fishing gear, and witness wildlife like eagles up close.
Saltwater fishing is some of the best in Ketchikan. Five species of wild Pacific salmon are in this area: Kings (chinooks), Cohos (silvers), Sockeyes (reds), Chums (dogs) and Pinks (humpies).
The third-largest island in the United States, Prince of Wales Island, is reachable by inter-island ferry (3 hours) or seaplane (20-80 minutes). The island is a prime destination for sport fishers, hunting, hiking, and nature tours.
A seasonal, complimentary shuttle bus runs a 20-minute circuit around downtown Ketchikan, which is very useful for tourists. Taxis can be ordered or hailed on the street. Lyft and Uber are available. Cars and bicycles can be rented in town, but those hiring cars should note that parking can be expensive as permits are required.
Ketchikan International Airport is on Gravina Island, around a five minute ferry ride away.
