Everything You Need to Know About Ketchikan, Alaska
Situated on the southern tip of Alaska's panhandle, surrounded by towering emerald forests and the pristine waters of the Inside Passage, is Ketchikan, Alaska. It offers a blend of abundant natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, unique weather patterns, and unshakeable community spirit.
Whether you'll be seeing Ketchikan as a seasonal visitor or are considering a move to the area, you'll be captivated by its charm and beauty. Here's what you need to know to make the most of your time in Ketchikan.
01 Ketchikan gets lots of rain
With an average of between 140 and 160 inches of rainfall per year, Ketchikan is among the wettest cities in the country. The rain contributes to the area's iconic lush green vegetation and promotes healthy salmon stocks, so residents embrace the wet weather as a vital part of their way of life. Residents simply slip on their rain boots, pull on their waterproof parkas, and go about their day. Although summer visitors may experience a bit of rain during their stay, the city's trademark torrential downpours typically don't begin until early autumn.
02 The Tongass National Forest surrounds Ketchikan
Ketchikan's abundant rainfall amounts come as no surprise, considering it's surrounded by the largest temperate rainforest on the planet. Covering over 26,000 square miles, the Tongass provides a home for a wide range of animal and plant species. Due to its abundant rainfall, large-scale wildfire activity is uncommon in the Tongass National Forest. Although you might not be able to explore the forest on your own during your time in town, the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary provides visitors with the opportunity to experience Southeast Alaska's lush beauty and diverse wildlife through educational exhibits and tours.
03 Salmon is king in Ketchikan
Salmon is so central to Southeast Alaska's way of life that even the high school sports teams are named after the region's iconic king salmon. Ketchikan is also a premier destination for anglers seeking a world-class salmon fishing experience.
If your time in town is limited, half-day salmon charters are available to let you experience the thrill of fishing in SE Alaska's rich waters while still leaving enough time to explore other attractions. For those who'd prefer to remain on land, Ketchikan Creek runs right through the city's downtown core. If you're lucky enough to visit during late July and August, you can relax on a comfortable bench near the banks of the creek and watch the salmon swimming to their spawning grounds.
04 Ketchikan gets a million annual visitors
Drawn by the stunning natural beauty of the Inside Passage and Southeast Alaska's unique cultural heritage, over one million people from all over the world visit Ketchikan every year. The vast majority of visitors visit via cruise ship, and as Alaska's southernmost city, Ketchikan serves as an introduction to the state for them. Many major cruise lines offer Alaska adventures, so whether you're seeking a super family-friendly experience, an elegant, old-school voyage or anything in between, it's likely that there's a cruise option that will align with your personal needs and preferences.
05 The timber industry has a rich history in Ketchikan
The timber industry has played an important role in Ketchikan's economic development and history. During the early part of the 20th century, Ketchikan became a prime location for logging and mill operations, which attracted workers and businesses to the area. Although timber industry activity has waned in recent years, its legacy lives on as an integral part of Ketchikan's cultural heritage. For a vivid look back at Southeast Alaska's timber heritage, be sure to catch the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, With up to six performances a day in a convenient venue just a block from the cruise ship dock, there's sure to be a show tht suits your schedule.
06 Ketchikan has a colorful past
Ketchikan's picturesque Creek Street once served as the heart of the city's red light and bootlegging district. Brothels and saloons once lined the boardwalk that hovers over Ketchikan Creek. To escape detection by law enforcement, bootleggers would row their boats right under the buildings on Creek Street, most of which were equipped with hidden trap doors, to deliver their illicit goods under the cover of darkness. Visitors to Dolly's House Museum on Creek Street can see the secret closet where she concealed contraband liquor during the Prohibition years.
07 Ketchikan International Airport is on an island
You may already know that Ketchikan itself is situated on the southwest coast of Revillagigedo Island, but you may not know that the city's airport is located on Gravina Island. Travelers need to take a small ferry across the Tongass Narrows to reach the main town. This typically takes about 15 minutes and adds an extra layer of adventure to their Alaska journey. At one time, there were plans to build a bridge to provide travelers and residents with a direct connection to the airport, but the project, often referred to as "The Bridge to Nowhere," faced significant controversy and was eventually scrapped.
08 Ketchikan residents see black bears in their yards
Ketchikan residents have grown used to the sight of black bears and other wildlife right in their own neighborhoods. Bears often wander through town, foraging for food, often with one or more bear cubs in tow. This close connection to nature is a cherished aspect of living in Ketchikan, and those who live there wouldn't have it any other way. If you're new to the area or visiting, enjoy getting a close view of these magnificent animals. Be sure to give them their space, especially if you're lucky enough to see a mama bear with cubs. Keep in mind that black bear attacks are exceedingly rare.
09 Ketchikan has very few chain restaurants
With the exception of a lone McDonald's, Ketchikan doesn't have any chain restaurants. This means you'll be enjoying a variety of unique, locally owned and operated eateries, from tiny burger shacks to upscale venues serving expertly prepared seafood caught in local waters. Thanks to Ketchikan's thriving Filipino community, you'll have the opportunity to savor traditional favorites such as pancit, adobo, lumpia, and other regional specialties.
10 You can go hiking right from your front door
If you're like most hiking aficionados, you're used to having to drive a bit to reach your favorite trailheads. In Ketchikan, however, you can begin your hike right from your front door with no vehicle required. Soaring 3,000 feet over downtown Ketchikan, Deer Mountain provides a somewhat challenging but accessible trail that winds through the lush rainforest. The summit features views of the city, surrounding waterways, and distant snow-capped peaks.
11 The Ketchikan Blueberry Arts Festival happens every August
Ketchikan's annual Blueberry Arts Festival highlights the town's creative and community spirit with an eclectic mix of activities and events. Sponsored by the Ketchikan Area Arts and Humanities Council, the festival features live music on Main Street, a lively parade, family-friendly games, and an outdoor marketplace where local artisans display their arts-and-crafts, paintings, one-of-a-kind jewelry, and other handmade items. The festivities are topped off by a blueberry pie eating contest.
12 Ketchikan has a vibrant arts scene
Those who won't be in town during August to attend the Blueberry Arts Festival don't have to miss out on Ketchikan's unique blend of creativity. Numerous galleries, studios, and cultural centers call Ketchikan home. Renowned local artist Ray Troll opened his gallery, Soho Coho, on Creek Street in 1992, providing a platform for other regional artists to showcase their work. Troll's distinctive artwork features whimsical yet scientifically accurate depictions of local marine life.
13 Ketchikan's record high is 89 degrees fahrenheit
Ketchikan's hottest day on record was 89 degrees back in August of 1977. Anything over 80 degrees is fairly rare — summer temperatures typically range in the 60s and low 70s, creating a comfortable environment for outdoor recreation. Be sure to bring plenty of layers if you're visiting or moving to the area. Temperatures frequently change throughout the day, so be prepared by having sweaters or jackets on hand when enjoying outdoor activities.
14 Daylight hours vary dramatically in Ketchikan
Unlike parts further north in the great state of Alaska, no one has ever referred to Ketchikan as "The Land of the Midnight Sun." The longest day of the year in Ketchikan lasts about 17 hours and 30 minutes, with the sun setting well before midnight. That's still a lot of daylight, though, with the sun rising against just after 4 a.m. Kechikan's shortest day of the year begins several minutes after 8 a.m. and ends just after 4 p.m.
15 Ketchikan has the world's largest collection of Totem Poles
Scattered throughout the city in parks, heritage centers, and museums, Ketchikan's impressive collection of totem poles serves as vibrant reminders of the heritage and cultural identity of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples who first populated the region. Prominent sites include Totem Bight, Saxman Native Village, and Totem Heritage Center, where visitors can learn about these remarkable works of art. Each totem tells a unique story and uses traditional techniques that have been passed down through the generations.
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