Destination attractions things to do in ketchikan

Posted: 02/09/2007--25/11/2008 || Rate this Article: 3 || Views|| Sign In || Register ||Hello Guest

Alaska has long held the interest of those seeking a vacation destination void of crowds. The wilderness areas that still dominate Alaska appeal to the adventurer in many. For those who like the idea of the wilderness, but find it a bit intimidating, visiting a town like Ketchikan, Alaska, will satisfy both the adventurer and the comfort lover in you.

Ketchikan has several areas where you can view authentic totem poles. The most frequented of these areas is Sacman Totem Park. Entrance to this park is free for those who wish to explore the twenty-six totems on their own. They do, however, offer guided tours for a fee. These tours include the stories behind each of the totems, a carving demonstration and a performance by the parks Cape Fox Dancers. This tour will give you a wonderful glimpse into the areas rich Native American culture.

Another stop that will enlighten you in this areas rich culture is the museum and library. The museum holds numerous Indian artifacts and Alaskan memorabilia. The library offers many books on all aspects of Alaskan history and culture. These are two great places to spend a rainy afternoon in Ketchikan.

Speaking of rain, you wont want to miss the Liquid Sunshine Gauge, located in the center of town. This gauge shows, in feet, the 162-inch average yearly rainfall of Ketchikan. Seeing this actual representation really puts the sheer amount of yearly rain in perspective.

Creek Street was once the towns red light district. Today, however, it offers those seeking souvenirs many unique shops to explore. If you have planned your vacation in late August or early September, you can walk to the end of Creek Street and get a wonderful view of the incredible salmon migration as they pass on their way upstream. This is one sight you will not soon forget.

The Deer Mountain Hatchery is an interesting place to visit. Each year, they release tens of thousands of two-year-old coho and king salmon into the area waters. The hatcherys many educational displays and observation decks will hold your interest for quite some time. Dont leave this area without stopping next door at the Eagle Center. You will definitely want your camera for this stop; you may never again have the opportunity to see these incredible birds so closely.

Alaska and wilderness are synonymous. You do not need to wander into the wilderness alone, however, unless you truly wish to do so. Ketchikan offers guided walking tours and a horse-drawn trolley tour. On the water, you might enjoy taking the Guard Island Lighthouse Tour. This guided tour around the lighthouse will take at least two hours and is full of information on the history of the area.

Photographers will love the back country safari. You will be taken by guide into the wilderness areas surrounding Ketchikan, where you will have opportunity to view the varied wildlife inhabiting this area. Many stops are made along the way to give you opportunity to photograph the area. This tour is truly a wildlife photographers dream.

For those who prefer more physical activities, there are canoe safaris and bike tours. Sports fishing and kayaking are big area activities for those who love being out on the water. Whatever your idea of fun, whether calm or exciting, Ketchikan, Alaska, can provide you with the ideal vacation destination.