Local Attractions

  Saxman Native Village is a must-see local attraction located less than 3 miles south of downtown Ketchikan, Alaska. Renowned for its impressive collection of massive hand-carved totem poles, each telling legendary stories of the unique traditions of the indigenous Tlingit and Haida people.

Enjoy a quick 20-minute picturesque drive along our scenic coastline and discover Totem Bight State Park, which is located 10 miles north of downtown Ketchikan. While onsite at this magnificent and historic waterfront park, you’ll observe a towering collection of master-carved totem poles and a traditional clan house. 

Immerse yourself in the area’s vibrant Alaskan Native culture with this one-of-a-kind experience by visiting Potlatch Park & Museum. Located just 10 miles from downtown Ketchikan, this is truly a grand opportunity to see it all! Experience the carving center, totem pole park, museum, and store!

You don’t want to forget your binoculars during this unforgettable Herring Cove & Waterfall experience, another 20-minute ride just seven miles south of downtown Ketchikan. Along the way, we’ll stop to see a beautiful waterfall and, upon arrival at our destination, view occasional black bears, bald eagles, and harbor seals.

  During mid to late summer, the famous salmon ladder in Ketchikan is a quick sight to include on your bucket list of adventures while downtown. The ladder helps adult salmon migrate more efficiently upstream to prepare for spawning. This is a great educational experience for your entire party!

This must-see Alaska Public Lands Information Center is the only one in Southeast Alaska, offering more than 20,000 square feet of historical exhibits and educational information on display. While visiting, absorb a wealth of knowledge surrounding our commercial fishing, mining, and aviation industries, to name a few. 

Established in the 1920s during the Prohibition era, this charming boardwalk, supported by wooden pilings, is nestled along the forest-lined shores of downtown Ketchikan Creek. Originally a brawly red-light district frequented by fishermen and driven by bootleggers and prostitutes, this historic sight isn’t one to miss.  

Overlooking our quaint Southeast Alaskan town is spectacular Deer Mountain, a dramatic backdrop that artistically frames our unique coastal community. This challenging 2.5 mile climb offers an unforgettable hiking experience, with an elevation gain of 3,000 feet. At the summit, the views are simply breathtaking! 

Located only 2 miles from downtown, discover the peaceful tranquility of charming Carlanna Lake. This rainforest trek begins on a steep, gravel pathway that leads to a dam, just 10 minutes away. After enjoying pristine lakeside views, continue this 1.75 mile leisurely hike into the serene forest along the water.

Rotary Beach, also known as Bugge Beach, is a popular local hotspot for seaside recreation and is located 3 miles south of downtown. Formerly, this scenic public beachfront was a mining claim owned by Ketchikan pioneer Martin Bugge. Enjoy abundant tidepools, soaring eagles, and more.

Undoubtedly, this is another local favorite beach and recreation site offering panoramic coastal views, especially ideal for travelers seeking to escape the bustling downtown area. Enjoy a quick, picturesque 15 minute drive on North Tongass Hwy. and prepare for an unforgettable ocean front experience. 

Located 18 miles north of downtown, Settlers Cove State Recreation Site is perhaps Ketchikan’s finest beachfront and coastal attraction. This stunning site boasts a sandy beach, 13 campsites, a network of well-maintained hiking trails, a public use cabin, picnic shelters, and breathtaking ocean vistas!