Ketchikan Alaska Activities near Cedars Lodge

A charming town built on a steep hillside and pilings over the water, Ketchikan, Alaska boasts a variety of historical, cultural and scenic treasures. In addition to fantastic fishing, Ketchikan offers a variety of activities to enjoy. Home to the largest native population in Alaska, Ketchikan boasts the largest collection of totem poles in the world as well as a vast variety of native art. These totem poles are on display at many locations in the community, including Saxman Village, just south of town, and Totem Bight State Historic Park, located just north of town. Totem Bight is also home to a replica “long house” in a picturesque forest setting.

Known as “The Grand Canyon of Alaska,” Misty Fjords National Monument is scenic wonder well worth visiting. Accessible only by boat or floatplane, the monument is grand spectacle of glaciers, waterfalls, lakes, and towering granite cliffs. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife. The monument includes several hiking trails as well as recreational cabins maintained by the U.S. Forest Service.

Freshwater Fishing: Chartered and fly-in fishing trips to fresh water lakes and rivers may be arranged to accommodate the ambitions of even our most definitive guests.

Whale Spotting: In spring, pods of Killer Whales and Gray Whales can be seen swimming northbound through Tongass Narrows. Closer to town it is also possible to see the occasional sea lion, porpoise and seal.

Tours: A variety of tours are available. Take a walking tour of Ketchikan (maps are available). See Boat Harbors and the waterfront. Discover Saxman Village with the world's largest collection of Totem Poles. See historic downtown from a horse drawn trolley. Visit Deer Mountain Fish Hatchery with observation platforms and signs explaining the life cycle of the salmon. Hike the trails to the top of Deer Mountain for spectacular views of town, waterways and islands. See Misty Fjords via tour boat.

Flightseeing: By air, you can fly through a richly forested fjord lined with massive granite cliffs, see thundering waterfalls, glaciers and abundant wildlife including bear, mountain goat, moose and whales.

Adventure Activities: Canoe through a mountain lake or jet ski Ketchikan's historic waterfront and notorious Creek Street. Enjoy many miles of sheltered water for kayaking. Scuba diving for the beginner or experienced cold water diver is also available.

Hunting: This area is a sportsman's delight. Hunt mountain goat, black bear as well as Sitka black tail deer and brown bear. Duck hunting is also a popular activity.

Ketchikan is a shopping paradise with an eclectic mix of art galleries, gift boutiques and bookstores as well as a variety of restaurants and coffee shops. One of the most charming shopping areas is historic Creek Street, the city’s former red-light district. It is a boardwalk on pilings over the water where early 20th century buildings stand preserved, housing many galleries, cafes and quaint shops.

Museums: See pioneer and Indian artifacts at the Ketchikan Historical Museum. Tour Dolly's House, the residence of the city's last "Madame".