Ketchikan is a unique Alaskan community with a wealth of historic as well as scenic wonders. Besides great fishing, there are many other activities to round out your Alaskan adventure.
Boasting the largest native population in the state, Ketchikan is home to the world's greatest collection of totem poles and native art. Examples of these intricately carved cedar poles can be found in Saxman Village, just south of town.To the north is Totem Bight State Park where more poles and a recreated "Long House" are located in a beautiful, natural forest setting.
Activities and Places of Interest
Misty Fjords: You may want to spend a few hours letting your eyes feast from the viewpoint of a float plane as you experience the magnificent Misty Fjords National Monument. Often called "The Grand Canyon of Alaska", this is an awesome area of pristine wilderness where sheer glacier carved granite cliffs plunge dramatically into icy blue waters. The U.S. Forest Service maintains recreational cabins and there are trails for hikers.
Freshwater Fishing: Chartered and fly-in fishing trips to fresh water lakes and rivers may be arranged to accommodate the ambitions of even our most definitive guests.
Whale Spotting: In spring, pods of Killer Whales and Gray Whales can be seen swimming northbound through Tongass Narrows. Closer to town it is also possible to see the occasional sea lion, porpoise and seal.
Tours: A variety of tours are available. Take a walking tour of Ketchikan (maps are available). See Boat Harbors and the waterfront. Discover Saxman Village with the world's largest collection of Totem Poles. See historic downtown from a horse drawn trolley. Visit Deer Mountain Fish Hatchery with observation platforms and signs explaining the life cycle of the salmon. Hike the trails to the top of Deer Mountain for spectacular views of town, waterways and islands. See Misty Fjords via tour boat.
Flightseeing: By air, you can fly through a richly forested fjord lined with massive granite cliffs, see thundering waterfalls, glaciers and abundant wildlife including bear, mountain goat, moose and whales.
Adventure Activities: Canoe through a mountain lake or jet ski Ketchikan's historic waterfront and notorious Creek Street. Enjoy many miles of sheltered water for kayaking. Scuba diving for the beginner or experienced cold water diver is also available.
Hunting: This area is a sportsman's delight. Hunt mountain goat, black bear as well as Sitka black tail deer and brown bear. Duck hunting is also a popular activity.
Shopping: From art galleries to bookstores, gift stores to espresso bars, you are sure to find what you are looking for in Ketchikan.Visit historic Creek Street: a boardwalk on pilings surrounding Ketchikan Street. The "street" is lined with buildings that were once notorious houses of ill repute. These and newer buildings now house cafe's, galleries and boutiques.
Museums: See pioneer and Indian artifacts at the Ketchikan Historical Museum. Tour Dolly's House, the residence of the city's last "Madame".
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