Ketchikan travel Guide

Ketchikan travel guide

National Airports

Ketchikan, Alaska, is served by the Ketchikan International Airport (IATA: KTN, ICAO: PAKT). Despite its name, Ketchikan International Airport primarily serves domestic flights within Alaska and some flights to and from the contiguous United States, particularly Seattle, Washington. It’s the main airport serving the Ketchikan Gateway Borough and is located on Gravina Island, just west of Ketchikan’s city center. The airport provides essential transportation connections for residents and visitors traveling to and from Ketchikan and the surrounding region.

Trains in Ketchikan

Ketchikan, Alaska, does not have any train services. Situated in the southeastern part of the state, Ketchikan is an island community accessible primarily by air and sea. As a result, there are no train lines connecting Ketchikan to other parts of Alaska or the United States.

However, Ketchikan is served by the Alaska Marine Highway System, which provides ferry service to various communities in Southeast Alaska, as well as to British Columbia, Canada. Additionally, the city has a small airport, the Ketchikan International Airport, which offers flights to other cities in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest region of the United States.

While train travel is not an option in Ketchikan, visitors to the area can explore the town and its surrounding natural beauty by walking, biking, driving, or taking advantage of local transportation services.

Buses in Ketchikan

Ketchikan, Alaska, does not have a public bus system like many larger cities. The town is relatively small and compact, and most destinations can be reached on foot or by private vehicle. However, there are some alternative transportation options available for getting around Ketchikan:

Taxi Services: Ketchikan has several taxi companies that provide on-demand transportation services within the town and to nearby areas. Taxis can be useful for short trips or when you need a ride to or from the airport or ferry terminal.

Shuttle Services: Some hotels, lodges, and tour operators in Ketchikan may offer shuttle services for guests, particularly for transportation to and from the airport or ferry terminal. Be sure to inquire about shuttle options when making lodging or tour reservations.

Tour Transportation: If you’re participating in guided tours or excursions during your visit to Ketchikan, transportation may be provided as part of the tour package. Many tour operators offer transportation to and from hotels or designated meeting points for their guests.

Walking and Biking: Ketchikan’s compact size and scenic surroundings make it conducive to walking and biking. Many of the town’s attractions, shops, restaurants, and scenic viewpoints are within walking or biking distance of each other, allowing visitors to enjoy the town’s charm at a leisurely pace.

Car Rentals: Renting a car can offer flexibility and convenience for getting around Ketchikan and exploring the surrounding area. Several car rental agencies operate in Ketchikan, offering a range of vehicles to suit different needs and budgets.

While public buses may not be available in Ketchikan, visitors to the area can still navigate the town and its attractions using alternative transportation options or by exploring on foot or by bike.

How to get to Ketchikan

Ketchikan, Alaska, is primarily accessed by air or sea due to its island location and rugged terrain. Here are the main options for getting to Ketchikan:

By Air:

Commercial Flights: Ketchikan International Airport (KTN) is the main airport serving the city. Several airlines offer regular scheduled flights to Ketchikan from cities like Seattle, Juneau, and Anchorage. Alaska Airlines and Delta Air Lines are among the major carriers serving Ketchikan.

Charter Flights: Private charter flights are also available for travelers who prefer more flexible scheduling or direct routes to Ketchikan from various locations in Alaska and beyond.

By Sea:

Alaska Marine Highway Ferry: The Alaska Marine Highway System provides ferry service to Ketchikan from other communities in Southeast Alaska, such as Juneau, Sitka, and Prince Rupert, BC, Canada. The ferry terminal in Ketchikan is located near downtown and offers both passenger and vehicle service.

Cruise Ships: Ketchikan is a popular port of call for cruise ships traveling through the Inside Passage. Many cruise lines include Ketchikan on their itineraries during the summer months, offering passengers the opportunity to explore the town’s attractions and enjoy scenic cruising in the surrounding waters.

By Private Boat:

Private boat owners can reach Ketchikan by sailing or cruising their vessels to the town’s harbor facilities. Ketchikan has a deep-water harbor that can accommodate various sizes of private boats.

Combination of Air and Sea:

Some travelers may opt for a combination of air and sea travel, such as flying to Juneau or another nearby city and then taking a ferry to Ketchikan. This can offer a scenic and flexible way to explore the region.

When planning your trip to Ketchikan, be sure to consider factors such as seasonality, availability, and pricing for transportation options. It’s also advisable to book your travel arrangements in advance, especially during the peak tourist season in the summer months. Whether you choose to arrive by air or sea, Ketchikan’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage await your exploration.

What is the best time to travel to Ketchikan

The best time to travel to Ketchikan depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience during your visit. Here are some considerations for different times of the year:

Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Ketchikan, characterized by mild temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the best time for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.

Many cultural events, festivals, and outdoor markets take place during the summer months.

Keep in mind that summer is also the busiest time for tourism, so accommodations and tours may be more expensive and crowded.

Spring (April to May): Spring in Ketchikan offers milder temperatures and fewer crowds compared to summer. It’s a great time for wildlife viewing, as many species of migratory birds return to the area, and marine mammals become more active.

Spring can be a good time for hiking and exploring without the summer crowds, although some trails may still have lingering snow.

Fall (September to October): Fall is another excellent time to visit Ketchikan, with cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage. September is typically the best month for fishing, as salmon runs are at their peak.

Fall is also a quieter time for tourism compared to summer, so you may find better deals on accommodations and tours.

Winter (November to March): Winter in Ketchikan is characterized by cold temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and occasional snowfall. While winter is the off-season for tourism, it can be a magical time to visit for those seeking solitude and unique experiences.

Winter activities in Ketchikan may include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, wildlife watching, and aurora (northern lights) viewing.

Keep in mind that some attractions and businesses may have reduced hours or be closed during the winter months.

Ultimately, the best time to travel to Ketchikan depends on your interests, tolerance for crowds, and preferred outdoor activities. Whether you visit during the peak summer season or opt for a quieter off-season experience, Ketchikan’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage offer something special year-round.

How to get around Ketchikan

Getting around Ketchikan, Alaska, primarily involves walking, driving, or utilizing local transportation options. Here are some ways to get around Ketchikan:

Walking: Ketchikan’s downtown area is relatively compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Many of the town’s attractions, shops, restaurants, and scenic viewpoints are within walking distance of each other.

Driving: Renting a car or bringing your own vehicle offers flexibility and convenience for getting around Ketchikan and exploring the surrounding area. Ketchikan has several car rental agencies, and there are parking facilities available in the downtown area.

Taxi Services: Ketchikan has several taxi companies that provide on-demand transportation services within the town and to nearby areas. Taxis can be useful for short trips or when you need a ride to or from the airport, ferry terminal, or other destinations.

Shuttle Services: Some hotels, lodges, and tour operators in Ketchikan may offer shuttle services for guests, particularly for transportation to and from the airport, ferry terminal, or other points of interest. Be sure to inquire about shuttle options when making lodging or tour reservations.

Public Transportation: Ketchikan does not have a public bus system, but there may be limited shuttle services or local transportation options available for specific purposes, such as transportation to medical facilities or community events. Check with your accommodation or local tourism offices for information on any available public transportation services.

Biking: Biking is another option for getting around Ketchikan, especially during the summer months when the weather is pleasant. While there are no dedicated bike lanes, cyclists can share the road with vehicles and enjoy scenic coastal routes.

Tour Transportation: If you’re participating in guided tours or excursions during your visit to Ketchikan, transportation may be provided as part of the tour package. Many tour operators offer transportation to and from hotels or designated meeting points for their guests.

Whether you prefer exploring independently by car or on foot, or taking advantage of local transportation services, getting around Ketchikan allows you to enjoy the town’s natural beauty and cultural attractions at your own pace.

Accommodations in Ketchikan

Ketchikan, Alaska, offers a variety of accommodations ranging from hotels and lodges to bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals. Here are some options for accommodations in Ketchikan:

Hotels and Lodges:

Cape Fox Lodge: Overlooking Ketchikan’s downtown area and Tongass Narrows, Cape Fox Lodge offers comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, lounge, and fitness center.

The Gilmore Hotel: Located in the heart of Ketchikan’s historic district, The Gilmore Hotel offers charming accommodations with vintage decor, as well as modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi and an on-site restaurant.

Black Bear Inn: Situated on a hillside overlooking Ketchikan, Black Bear Inn offers cozy rooms with scenic views, as well as complimentary breakfast and shuttle service to downtown.

Bed and Breakfasts:

The Inn at Creek Street: Nestled on Ketchikan’s historic Creek Street, The Inn at Creek Street offers charming rooms and suites with waterfront views, as well as easy access to shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Black Bear Bed and Breakfast: Located in a quiet residential neighborhood, Black Bear Bed and Breakfast offers comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, as well as homemade breakfast served daily.

Vacation Rentals:

Private Vacation Homes: There are several vacation rental properties available in Ketchikan, ranging from cozy cottages to waterfront homes. Vacation rentals offer the convenience of a home away from home, with amenities such as full kitchens, laundry facilities, and outdoor spaces.

Hostels:

The New York Hotel & Hostel: Situated in downtown Ketchikan, The New York Hotel & Hostel offers budget-friendly accommodations with dormitory-style rooms, as well as private rooms with shared bathrooms.

Cabins and Cottages:

Salmon Falls Resort: Located just outside of Ketchikan, Salmon Falls Resort offers waterfront cabins with scenic views, as well as access to fishing charters, wildlife viewing, and outdoor activities.

When booking accommodations in Ketchikan, consider factors such as location, amenities, and budget to find the option that best suits your needs and preferences. It’s advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during the peak tourist season in the summer months.