Ketchikan: Rainforest Trails and Totem History

Several themes come together for a stay in Ketchikan: rainforest trails, totem history, a historic district, and waterfront experiences. The city is accessible only by plane or ship. As you plan, you can consider which of these aspects of the destination you want to shape your stay.

Rainforest Trails

The Tongass National Forest surrounds Ketchikan, and visitors can hike in the temperate rainforest right from downtown. The Carlanna Lake Trail is an easy loop of more than 3 miles. It is accessible from the end of Canyon Road via a gravel road. The Rainbird Trail is 1.3 miles long; starting points include the University of Alaska Southeast campus or downtown. This trail includes several short, steep climbs. The two trails therefore differ in their expressly stated features: the Carlanna Lake Trail is highlighted as an easy loop, while the Rainbird Trail is noted for its starting points and climbs. You can take these details about length, route type, and terrain into account when planning your day.

Creek Street and the Waterfront Promenade

Creek Street is a historic district on the edge of Ketchikan Creek, just steps from the waterfront. Today, it is a pedestrian-friendly area with preserved buildings, local art, restaurants, cafés, and small shops. Here, historic architecture meets an array of art, dining, and small shops. You can get a free map for the historic walking tour of Ketchikan at the Visit Ketchikan visitor centers at berths 2 and 3.

The Waterfront Promenade runs along the shore and features historical information panels as well as whale-tail-shaped benches. It combines a waterside route with historical information and distinctive seating. The promenade and Creek Street are two different ways to explore Ketchikan: one is a historic district with its buildings and shops, the other a waterside path with information panels and benches.

Totem Poles and Regional History

Ketchikan is home to one of the world’s largest collections of standing totem poles. Totem Bight State Historical Park was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970. When World War II slowed the CCC project, the community house and 15 poles were in place. The totem pole collection represents a broad cultural and historical focus in Ketchikan; Totem Bight brings the development of a specific park into focus.

The Southeast Alaska Discovery Center offers another way to explore nature and culture. It features interactive exhibits on the Tongass rainforest, regional wildlife, and land use in Southeast Alaska. The topics range from the rainforest and its wildlife to human use of the region. Together with the historic sites, this gives you a choice of different focuses for planning your trip, without having to limit yourself to a single topic.

Waterfront Experiences

In Ketchikan, you can rent kayaks for paddling trips along the waterfront; specific providers and terms may vary. Paddling complements the waterfront promenade with an activity on the water. When sorting out your interests for your stay, trails, cultural history, and waterfront experiences are distinct options to choose from.

Discover more destinations: Gateway

View the broader travel overview: Ketchikan Gateway Borough.