Arrive in Ketchikan by air or ferry and take time to settle into your accommodations. Spend the afternoon strolling historic Creek Street, browsing local shops, and getting your bearings downtown.
Enjoy a relaxed dinner featuring fresh seafood, then take an evening walk along the waterfront as the harbor lights reflect on the water.
The Pearl in Saxman, Clark Mishler
Day 2: Totems, Trails & Town
Begin the day with coffee from a local café before visiting Totem Bight State Historical Park or Saxman Totem Park to learn about Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian cultures.
In the afternoon, hike one of the many trails in the Tongass National Forest, or opt for a scenic drive along North Tongass Highway with ocean and forest views.
Wrap up the evening with live music, a community event, or casual drinks with locals.
Day 3: Fishing the Inside Passage
Kick off the day with one of Southeast Alaska’s most iconic experiences — a guided fishing charter on the protected waters of the Inside Passage. Head out early with an experienced captain who will take you to productive fishing grounds for salmon, halibut, or rockfish, depending on the season.
Between bites, soak in sweeping coastal views and keep an eye out for whales, sea lions, and bald eagles along the way.
Return to Ketchikan in the afternoon with time to relax, explore town, or enjoy a well-earned dinner after a day on the water.
Day 4: Misty Fjords National Monument
Dedicate today to exploring Misty Fjords National Monument by boat or floatplane. Sheer granite cliffs, waterfalls, and pristine wilderness make this one of Southeast Alaska’s most unforgettable experiences. Wildlife sightings are common, and the sense of scale is awe-inspiring.
Return to Ketchikan for a low-key dinner and a well-earned rest.
Day 5: Metlakatla & Annette Islands Reserve
Take a ferry or charter boat to Metlakatla, the only federally recognized Indian reservation in Alaska. Visit the Metlakatla Indian Community Museum to learn about Tsimshian history and the unique story of the Annette Islands Reserve.
Spend time exploring the village, coastline, and nearby nature areas before returning to Ketchikan. This is a meaningful cultural experience that offers a deeper understanding of the region.
Day 6: Prince of Wales Island Adventure
Travel by ferry or flight to Prince of Wales Island, Alaska’s third-largest island. Explore the town of Klawock, known for its impressive collection of totem poles, or head to Craig for a working fishing-town vibe.
If you enjoy the outdoors, hike to a waterfall, explore forest service roads, or take a guided wildlife or fishing excursion. Spend the night on Prince of Wales Island to fully appreciate its quieter pace.
Day 7: Slow Morning & Departure
Enjoy a final morning in Ketchikan with coffee and a waterfront walk. If time allows, go kayaking, take a short wildlife tour, or pick up last-minute locally made gifts.
Depart by ferry or flight — with a deeper connection to Southeast Alaska and plenty of reasons to come back.
Staying Longer?
With additional days, consider:
A multi-day fishing trip or lodge stay.
Extra time on Prince of Wales Island
Additional hiking, wildlife tours, or cultural events
Simply slowing down and enjoying Ketchikan like a local
Fill out the form below for your free Ketchikan planner guide in the mail (available in the US and Canada) or click here for your free Ketchikan digital guide.
The Pearl in Saxman, Clark Mishler
