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Day Trips from Ketchikan

Day Trips from Ketchikan

Ketchikan Alaska, USA Travel Guide

Nearby Destinations

Misty Fjords National Monument is a stunning wilderness area of glacial-carved fjords, towering cliffs, and abundant waterfalls. Prince of Wales Island is accessible by Alaska Marine Highway ferry from Ketchikan to Hollis.

Misty Fjords is visited via organized floatplane or boat tours. Prince of Wales Island exploration is independent via ferry and a rented car.

Travel Time

  • Misty Fjords: 3-4 hours for floatplane tour
  • Misty Fjords: 4-6 hours for boat tour
  • Prince of Wales Island: 3 hours one-way ferry
  • Prince of Wales Island: 1-3 days for thorough exploration

Natural Escapes

Ketchikan is surrounded by pristine nature, with many opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Parks & Reserves

Tongass National Forest, Totem Bight State Historical Park, and Ward Lake Recreation Area offer diverse natural experiences.

Outdoor Activities

  • Hiking trails and wildlife observation
  • Rainforest walks and water views
  • Picnics and fishing spots

Scenic Views

George Inlet, Waterfront Drive, and Rainbird Trail offer picturesque vistas.

Views and Features

  • Calm waters and surrounding forests
  • City and water panoramas
  • Summit views of Ketchikan islands

Natural Highlights

Waterfront & Forests

  • Rotary Beach: tide pooling and beachcombing
  • Deer Mountain: challenging hike with panoramic views
  • Backcountry areas: true wilderness immersion
  • Salmon Runs (July-September): observe spawning salmon

Seasonal Phenomena

  • Glacial-carved fjords and waterfalls
  • Extensive road systems for exploration
  • Unique geological features, including caves
  • Excellent fishing opportunities

Cultural Excursions

  • Historical SitesSaxman Native Village, Totem Bight State Historical Park
  • Cultural FocusTotem poles, clan houses, cultural performances
  • AccessibilityLocal bus accessible
  • Nearby CommunitiesLimited day trip villages (Metlakatla by ferry/floatplane)
  • Agricultural AreasNo significant rural agricultural areas nearby
  • Pilgrimage SitesNo known sites in or near Ketchikan
  • Further ExplorationOther Southeast Alaska towns require ferry or floatplane
  • Local Heritage

Explore and Book Day Trips

Consider booking your day trips and excursions in advance to secure your spot. Find options on GetYourGuide.

Multi-Day Extensions

For those with more time, combining Ketchikan with other Alaskan destinations broadens the experience.

Prince of Wales Island

Largest island in U.S. Accessible by road. Features logging roads, fishing, caving (El Capitan Cave), small communities like Craig and Thorne Bay.

Juneau

Alaska's capital city. Visit Mendenhall Glacier, historical sites, and state government buildings.

Sitka

Historic Southeast Alaskan town known for Russian heritage, Tlingit culture, and wildlife viewing.

Transportation Connections

The Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) and Alaska Airlines link Ketchikan to other communities.

Connecting Travel

  • AMHS: Main connection for Southeast Alaskan communities
  • Alaska Airlines: Air connections to Juneau and Anchorage
  • Scenic journey through the Inside Passage

Suggested Regional Routes

Longer travel options for a varied Alaskan experience.

Extended Exploration

  • Southeast Alaska Loop: Explore multiple island communities
  • Inland Alaska Connection: Visit Denali National Park, Fairbanks
  • Northern Lights possibility in Interior Alaska

Destinations & Interests

Haines/SkagwayKlondike Gold Rush history gateways
Petersburg & WrangellAdditional AMHS stops
Different LandscapesMountains, tundra in Interior Alaska
Island ExplorationVaried experiences across communities
Cultural RichnessRussian heritage, Tlingit culture
Wildlife ViewingAbundant opportunities in Sitka

Plan Your Extended Trip

  • Consider a multi-day trip to Prince of Wales Island for varied activities.
  • Juneau offers glacier viewing and historical sites.
  • Sitka provides Russian heritage and Tlingit culture.
  • Utilize the Alaska Marine Highway System for scenic inter-island travel.
  • Alaska Airlines connects for onward travel.

Cultural Excursions

Beyond downtown, cultural sites broaden the understanding of the region's heritage.

Historical Sites

Features

  • Large collection of totem poles
  • Cultural performances and clan houses
  • Accessible by local bus

Rural Villages

No significant rural agricultural areas or other small villages nearby for day trips beyond Saxman Native Village.

Travel Notes

  • Other small communities (e.g., Metlakatla) require ferry or floatplane access
  • Typically not day trips
  • No known pilgrimage sites in or near Ketchikan

Both Saxman Native Village and Totem Bight State Historical Park are in experiencing the local Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian heritage.

Cultural Depth

  • Saxman: large collection of totem poles, cultural performances
  • Totem Bight: totem poles in a serene rainforest setting
  • Clan house replica at Totem Bight

Accessibility & Planning

Both cultural sites are outside the immediate downtown area but accessible for visitors.

Access Information

  • Saxman: Guided tours available from Ketchikan
  • Totem Bight: Accessible by local bus for independent visits
  • Clear signage for navigation

Learning & Immersion

Experience the intricate designs and stories of totem poles.

Living Culture

Witness cultural performances and demonstrations.

Historical Context

Gain insights into the history and traditions of local tribes.

Airport Services

Ketchikan offers various airport services for a smoother travel experience.

Lounge Access & Compensation

Airport Lounges

Access independent airport lounges worldwide with a Priority Pass membership.

Flight Compensation

For flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding, Compensair can assist with compensation claims.

Seamless Travel

These services streamline your airport experience and help manage unexpected travel disruptions.

Airport Logistics

  • Ketchikan International Airport (KTN) is on Gravina Island.
  • Accessible by a short, free ferry ride from the main Ketchikan side.
  • Ferry operates frequently, aligned with flight schedules.
  • Car rentals are available at the airport.
  • Taxi services connect the ferry terminal to town.
  • Public transportation does not extend to the airport ferry terminal.

Onward Travel

  • Alaska Airlines operates flights to Juneau and Anchorage.
  • Connections to the Lower 48 states are available through these hubs.
  • Floatplane and charter services operate from Ketchikan's downtown seaplane base.
  • Access remote lodges or wilderness areas from the seaplane base.
  • Cruise ship terminals are walking distance from downtown.
  • Alaska Marine Highway System ferry terminal is south of downtown.

General Airport Tips

Arrive Early

Allow ample time for the airport ferry transfer, especially during peak season.

Check Baggage

Verify baggage policies and carry-on restrictions for regional flights.

Connectivity

Wi-Fi is generally available at the airport terminal and on the ferry.