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Ketchikan
Alaska
Visit Ketchikan
Ketchikan, Alaska, often referred to as the "Salmon Capital of the World," is a vibrant port city that serves as the southeastern gateway to Alaska's stunning wilderness. Nestled at the southern tip of the Inside Passage, Ketchikan is surrounded by lush rainforest and is steeped in rich Native heritage, making it a fascinating destination for both nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
Upon arriving in Ketchikan, visitors are greeted by the picturesque setting of colorful totem poles that stand as a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of the area. The city boasts the world's largest collection of standing totem poles, which can be explored at several locations including Saxman Native Village, Totem Bight State Park, and the Totem Heritage Center. These sites offer a glimpse into the art and traditions of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples, with opportunities to watch carvers work on new totems and learn about the stories and legends that each pole represents.
Ketchikan’s downtown area, particularly along Creek Street, is a charming place to stroll and soak in local history. Once the red-light district, Creek Street is now a quaint boardwalk lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants housed in historic wooden buildings perched on stilts above the creek. A walk along this historic boardwalk offers a peek into Ketchikan's colorful past, complete with tales of fishermen, bootleggers, and the early pioneers of Alaska. For the adventurous, the surrounding Tongass National Forest offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities. Visitors can embark on hiking trails, join a fishing expedition to catch the famed Alaskan salmon, or take a floatplane for a breathtaking aerial view of the Misty Fjords National Monument, a stunning landscape of sea cliffs, steep fjords, and rock walls jutting straight out of the water.
Whether you're exploring its historical sites, engaging with local art and culture, or venturing into the wilds of the surrounding landscape, Ketchikan provides a unique blend of experiences that capture the essence of Alaska’s incredible beauty and heritage.
Ketchikan Monthly Weather Conditions
LOW
TEMP
HIGH
TEMP
DAYS OF PRECIP.
January
30°F
39°F
24
February
33°F
39°F
22
March
35°F
42°F
22
April
39°F
51°F
21
May
42°F
55°F
21
June
51°F
57°F
21
July
55°F
62°F
22
August
55°F
63°F
22
September
51°F
57°F
22
October
43°F
52°F
24
November
36°F
42°F
20
December
32°F
39°F
21
Need to Know Before You Go To Ketchikan
Nickname:
Salmon Capital of the World
Primary Language:
English
Time Zone:
America/Juneau
Current Time:
Electric Plug Type:
Type A and Type B
Annual Visitors:
Over 1 million
Primary Export:
Fish and seafood products
Busiest Travel Months:
July, August, June
Quietest Travel Months:
December, January, February
Find your Next Adventure in Ketchikan
Explore Ketchikan
Iconic Landmarks
Creek Street
This historic boardwalk was once the red-light district of Ketchikan during the early 20th century. Today, it's a picturesque street lined with colorful wooden buildings housing shops, galleries, and restaurants. Creek Street is also famous for its salmon runs, where visitors can watch fish leaping up the rapids.
Totem Bight State Historical Park
This park is a great place to learn about the Native cultures of Alaska. It features a collection of beautifully restored totem poles and a traditional clan house. The park offers a glimpse into the Tlingit and Haida ways of life and their artistry in totem pole carving.
Misty Fjords National Monument
Accessible by boat or floatplane, Misty Fjords offers some of the most spectacular wilderness in the area. The monument is characterized by deep fjords, towering cliffs, waterfalls, and lush forests. It's a perfect spot for sightseeing, wildlife viewing, and photography.
The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show
This entertaining show gives visitors a taste of Alaska's logging history. Competitions in chopping, sawing, climbing, and log rolling provide a lively and educational experience for all ages.
Dolly’s House Museum
Located on Creek Street, this former brothel, operated by Dolly Arthur, is now a museum that offers a peek into the life of Ketchikan in the early 20th century. The museum retains much of its original furnishings and artifacts, providing a unique historical perspective.
Southeast Alaska Discovery Center
This center provides interactive exhibits and educational programs about the natural and cultural heritage of Southeast Alaska. It's a great starting point for visitors wanting to learn about the region's ecosystems, wildlife, and history before exploring further.
Cultural Experiences
Totem Heritage Center
This center houses one of the world's largest collections of unrestored 19th-century totem poles. It offers a deep dive into the art and traditions of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples. Visitors can also participate in workshops and classes to learn about Native crafts and cultures.
Saxman Native Village
Just a few miles south of Ketchikan, this village features a collection of totem poles, one of the largest such collections in the world. The village includes a clan house and a carving center where visitors can watch native carvers at work. The cultural tours often include traditional dances and stories, providing insight into the rich heritage of the native community.
Southeast Alaska Discovery Center
Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, this center provides interactive exhibits about the ecosystems and cultures of Southeast Alaska. It's a great place to learn about the region's history, including the impact of the timber industry, and the traditions of the native peoples.
Creek Street
Once Ketchikan's red-light district, Creek Street is now a charming historic boardwalk lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants. The area is steeped in history and offers a picturesque view of Ketchikan Creek, especially when salmon are running. The Dolly’s House Museum on Creek Street provides a glimpse into the life of an early 20th-century brothel owner.
First Friday Art Walk
Participate in this monthly event where local galleries and businesses showcase artwork by local artists. It's a fantastic way to engage with the community, enjoy some local creativity, and learn more about the cultural fabric of Ketchikan.
Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show
While not traditional cultural heritage, this show is a fun and entertaining way to experience a part of Alaska's history and the logging industry, which has played a significant role in the state's development. The show features real lumberjacks competing in events like chopping, sawing, and log rolling.
Outdoor Adventures
Misty Fjords National Monument
Explore the breathtaking Misty Fjords National Monument by floatplane or boat. This area features dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and pristine fjords. A floatplane tour provides stunning aerial views and the opportunity to land on remote lakes or saltwater.
Salmon Fishing
Experience world-class salmon fishing in the waters around Ketchikan. Whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner, guided fishing trips are available, offering the chance to catch king, silver, or pink salmon, depending on the season.
Hiking the Deer Mountain Trail
Hike the Deer Mountain Trail for spectacular views of Ketchikan, the surrounding waterways, and distant mountains. This challenging trail offers a rewarding trek through Southeast Alaska's lush rainforest.
Kayaking
Paddle through the protected waters near Ketchikan, exploring coastal areas and potentially spotting wildlife such as eagles, seals, and even whales. Guided kayaking tours can take you to remote areas inaccessible by larger boats.
Zipline Adventure
Experience the thrill of ziplining through the rainforest canopy, over streams, and across lush valleys. This adventure is a great way to experience the dense Alaskan wilderness and get an adrenaline rush.
Totem Bight State Historical Park
Visit Totem Bight State Historical Park to see beautifully carved totem poles and a traditional clan house. Walking through the park offers a mix of cultural education and natural beauty, with scenic views of the ocean and forested areas.
Off the Beaten Path
Tongass Historical Museum Walking Tours
While the museum itself is a common stop, joining one of their guided walking tours can offer deeper insights into Ketchikan's past.
Explore Settlers Cove State Recreation Site
Located about 18 miles north of Ketchikan, this less frequented state park offers beautiful scenery with a peaceful beach, a lush rainforest, and opportunities for picnicking, hiking, and wildlife viewing. It's a great spot to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in nature.
Visit Saxman Native Village
While still a popular destination, visiting Saxman Native Village can feel more personal compared to more tourist-heavy spots. You can see one of the largest collections of totem poles and gain a deeper understanding of the Tlingit culture. Try to visit during a time when there aren’t large tour groups for a more personal experience.
Hike the Deer Mountain Trail
For those looking for a challenging hike, the Deer Mountain Trail offers a strenuous yet rewarding trek with panoramic views of Ketchikan, the surrounding waterways, and distant mountains. It's less crowded than other scenic spots and provides a great opportunity for solitude and reflection.
Kayak in Clover Pass
Rent a kayak and explore the serene waters of Clover Pass. This area is less trafficked than the main harbor and offers stunning views of the Alaskan wilderness and wildlife. Paddling here allows for a quiet, personal connection with the natural beauty of the area.
Misty Fjords National Monument by Floatplane
While visiting Misty Fjords itself is a popular excursion, experiencing it by floatplane offers an exclusive vantage point and the thrill of landing on remote lakes or fjords. Opt for a smaller tour operator or a private tour to make this experience more personal and less crowded.
Ketchikan Fun Facts
Ketchikan, Alaska, is a fascinating place with a rich history and vibrant culture. Here are the top 10 fun facts about this unique town: 1. Salmon Capital of the World Ketchikan is known as the "Salmon Capital of the World." The area is famous for its abundant salmon runs, which attract anglers from all over the globe. 2. Totem Poles Ketchikan has one of the largest collections of totem poles in the world. These can be seen at various locations around the town, including Saxman Native Village, Totem Bight State Park, and the Totem Heritage Center. 3. Misty Fjords National Monument Just 22 miles east of Ketchikan, this breathtaking wilderness area features dramatic cliffs, fjords, and waterfalls. It's accessible by boat or floatplane, offering stunning views and wildlife sightings. 4. Creek Street This historic boardwalk was once the red-light district of Ketchikan during the early 20th century. Today, it's a charming street with shops, galleries, and restaurants, all perched on stilts along the creek. 5. The Rainiest City in the United States Ketchikan is one of the rainiest places in the United States, receiving an average of around 140 inches of rain per year, which contributes to its lush, green landscape. 6. Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show Reflecting Ketchikanâs history in the timber industry, this show offers a fun and entertaining look at traditional logging skills, with competitions in chopping, sawing, climbing, and log rolling. 7. First City of Alaska Ketchikan is known as the "First City" of Alaska because it's the first major city you encounter as you travel northbound into the state. 8. Dollyâs House Museum Located on Creek Street, this was once the home of Dolly Arthur, Ketchikan's most famous madam. The house is now a museum that offers a glimpse into the town's colorful past during the prohibition era. 9. The Bridge to Nowhere A controversial construction project, the Gravina Island Bridge, often referred to as the “Bridge to Nowhere”, was intended to replace the ferry to Gravina Island, where Ketchikanâs airport is located. Funding issues led to the project's cancellation, making it a topic of national debate. 10. Rich Native Heritage Ketchikan is home to a significant population of Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian people. Their influence is evident in the townâs art and culture, particularly in the abundant totem poles and other native artworks. These facts highlight Ketchikan's unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and intriguing history, making it a captivating destination for visitors.
Featured Picture Gallery
Cruise Tourism is a Major Portion of the Ketchikan Economy
Experience the Local Fishing Industry By Taking a Fishing Charter
Experience the Rich Alaskan Culture of Ketchikan
Explore the Local City to Learn More About Ketchikan
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