The 9 Best Walking Tours in Ketchikan
Ketchikan is a city that practically invites exploration on foot. Its rugged rainforests, impressive totem poles, and historic streets make it a perfect place for walking tours that offer genuine connections with Alaska’s natural beauty and Native heritage. Whether you’re into lush forest hikes, learning about indigenous art, or hearing some spooky local legends, there’s a walk that fits your style. We especially enjoyed tours that combine cultural storytelling with scenic nature, like the Rainforest Walk & Totem Park, which offers a perfect blend of both worlds.
In this guide, you’ll find a selection of the best walking tours in Ketchikan, each with its own unique appeal. From short, scenic strolls to more immersive rainforest adventures, these options promise authentic encounters with Alaska’s wilderness and native culture. Whether you’re traveling with family, seeking a quiet nature escape, or craving a spine-tingling ghost story, you’ll find something to match your interests here.
Quick Overview of the Best Walking Tours in Ketchikan
Our list features a variety of tours—some focus on native totem parks and cultural education, like the 3 Hour Rainforest Walk & Totem Park, others combine wildlife viewing and forest walks, such as the 3-Hour Rainforest, Beach & Wildlife Walk. For those interested in more active pursuits, like paddling, the Ketchikan Rainforest Canoe and Nature Walk offers a hands-on experience. And if you’re intrigued by Alaskan ghost stories, the Ketchikan Ghost Walk is a spooky, fun option. Each tour provides a different way to experience this unique port town.
1. 3 Hour Rainforest Walk & Totem Park Wild Wolf Tours
This tour offers a perfect combination of Alaska’s lush rainforest and native cultural heritage. It’s ideal if you want a half-day experience that blends nature with storytelling. It starts with a guided walk through the Tongass National Forest, where you’ll see a waterfall and learn about native flora. Afterward, you’ll visit Potlatch Totem Park, where the guides share stories behind magnificent totem poles and explain the significance of clan houses.
What makes this tour stand out is the interactive nature—kids especially enjoy the activities—and the small group size (max 12). Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, with Zack and Kevin earning standout mentions for their engaging storytelling. The adventure is accessible for most fitness levels, though there is some walking on stairs.
Bottom line: This tour suits travelers wanting an immersive cultural and natural experience in a relaxed setting. It’s highly rated for its personalized attention and scenic hike. Price is $120 per person, offering excellent value considering the included totem park visit and rainforest walk.
2. 2 Hour Alaska Rainforest Walk and Totem Park Small Group Tour
This shorter version of the rainforest and totem experience is perfect if your time in port is limited. It emphasizes personalized attention with a small group (11 or fewer), ensuring you get plenty of time to ask questions. Starting with a drive through Ketchikan’s scenic neighborhoods, you’ll arrive at Totem Bight State Historical Park to see native totem poles and walk inside a clan house. The guide shares stories and meanings behind the carvings, enriching your understanding of native culture.
The scenic drive and forest walk are highlights, with the guide providing commentary on local history and ecology. The photo opportunities are plentiful, making it ideal for photography enthusiasts. Many reviews mention the enthusiasm and knowledge of guides like Jeff and Austin, who keep the tour lively and informative.
Bottom line: This tour is great if you want a shorter, intimate experience that combines native art and rainforest scenery. At $85, it offers a solid value for travelers with tight schedules or those seeking a quick cultural fix.
3. 3-Hour Rainforest, Beach & Wildlife Walk
For those wanting to get off the beaten path, this tour takes you deep into the Tongass National Rainforest, along remote beaches, and to spots where eagles soar and salmon swim. It begins with a scenic drive to Lunch Creek Falls, where you’ll hike through lush forest and stop at a beautiful waterfall—perfect for photos. The walk is easy and accessible, with plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities.
What sets this apart is its focus on wildlife and natural beauty, making it ideal for nature lovers. The small group size (max 8) allows for a more personal experience. Reviewers like Jordan and Jorden for their informative and friendly guidance, often complimenting the flexibility of the itinerary.
Bottom line: This tour is well-suited for travelers wanting a more adventurous, wildlife-focused walk. Priced at $115, it offers good value for those who want to combine rainforest, beach, and eagle watching in a single outing.
4. Ketchikan Rainforest Canoe and Nature Walk
If you’re up for something different, this canoe and rainforest walk is a charming way to see Ketchikan’s natural side. It starts with a paddle across Lake Harriet Hunt in a Native American-style canoe—a traditional, stable vessel that’s easy to manage, even for beginners. After paddling, you’ll walk through the rainforest, exploring flora like carnivorous Sundew plants and listening to the sounds of nature.
The snacks—including smoked fish and clam chowder—add a hearty touch, making it a full 3.5-hour experience that combines activity and relaxation. The small group size, capacity of 20, and local guides make it friendly and informative.
Reviewers mention the entertaining driver and their hands-on paddling experience. It’s perfect if you want a combination of paddling and nature, with the added bonus of cultural insights into Native traditions.
Bottom line: This tour balances water and land adventures, ideal for active travelers who want to paddle and hike. At $145, it’s a bit pricier but includes snacks and transport, making it a good value for an immersive experience.
5. Ketchikan: Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary and Totem Park Walk
This tour takes you into a private, 40-acre rainforest preserve, offering a peaceful walk through native flora and fauna. It combines a guided nature walk with visits to a historic totem park, where you learn about the Tsimshian’s carvings and culture. You might see bald eagles, black bears, and seals in their habitats—if luck is on your side.
The highlight is the personalized insight from a knowledgeable guide, who explains the plant life and native wildlife along the trail. The visit to the historic sawmill at Herring Bay adds a historical touch, rounding out the experience.
Reviewers note the beautiful environment and informative narration, making it suited for those interested in nature and indigenous culture. The tour is priced at $110, offering good value considering the private preserve access and wildlife observation.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting an educational and scenic walk in a less crowded, more intimate setting. The combination of wildlife, native art, and natural scenery makes it a well-rounded choice.
6. Ketchikan Ghost Walk
Looking to add a spooky twist to your visit? The Ketchikan Ghost Walk is a 2-hour stroll through the haunted streets of Ketchikan. Led by local storytellers, the tour explores haunted hotels, historic districts, and Creek Street, where tales of shadowy figures, floating beds, and mysterious noises abound. It’s a fun, atmospheric way to discover the town’s darker legends.
Reviewers mention the entertaining storytelling and the chilling legends that make the past come alive, especially at night. The tour is suitable for those who enjoy mystery and history and want a break from the daylight nature walks.
Bottom line: This tour appeals to night owls and fans of spooky stories. At $34.99, it’s an affordable way to add some ghostly intrigue to your Ketchikan visit.
$34.99 per person
7. Ketchikan: Ghost Walk Guided Tour
This guided ghost walk promises a more traditional approach to ghost stories, exploring eerie locations and sharing local legends. It’s suitable for those who want a historical perspective on Ketchikan’s spooky side, with stories about UFO sightings and haunted buildings.
While the exact reviews and ratings aren’t provided, it remains a popular choice for nighttime exploration of the town’s supernatural tales. It’s an economical way to combine history and mystery, perfect for families or groups interested in folklore.
Bottom line: If you prefer a straightforward ghost tour with fascinating stories and mysterious legends, this guided walk is a solid option.
$35 per person
8. Beautiful Nature Walk On Ketchikan’s Ward Creek Trail
This nature walk offers a serene, scenic experience along Ward Creek Trail. While reviews are not yet available, the thoughtfully curated route promises a peaceful immersion in local flora and fauna. It’s suitable for those who want a relaxed hike without strenuous effort, with a chance to enjoy mindful moments and reflection.
Perfect for nature lovers who prefer a gentle, scenic stroll with plenty of opportunities for photos. It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for a calm, meditative walk.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking quiet beauty and nature appreciation without a large group or complex logistics.
$117.30 per person
9. Rainforest Hiking/Walking Tour in Ketchikan Alaska (Private Tour)
For those who want a completely personalized experience, this private rainforest hiking tour offers the chance to explore Alaska’s lush forests alongside an expert guide. It’s a full 3-hour walk through massive trees, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints, with the flexibility to customize the route based on your interests.
Rated for a small group of up to 11 people, the tour promises an intimate, relaxed atmosphere where you can ask detailed questions. The guide shares insights into the flora, fauna, and geology of the rainforest, making it a deep dive into the natural environment.
Bottom line: This tour is best for travelers who want a private, in-depth exploration of Ketchikan’s rainforests and are willing to pay a premium for a tailored experience. It’s highly recommended for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
$895.00 per group (up to 11)
How to Choose the Right Walking Tour in Ketchikan
Picking the best tour depends on your interest level, fitness, and time availability. If you want a deep dive into native culture combined with scenic hikes, the Rainforest Walk & Totem Park offers incredible value. For a shorter, more intimate experience, try the 2-hour Totem Park tour.
If you’re interested in wildlife and remote beaches, the Rainforest, Beach & Wildlife Walk is a good pick. For adventure and hands-on activities, the Canoe & Nature Walk combines paddling with forest exploration.
Those seeking a spooky story experience should consider the Ghost Walks for some entertaining legends, especially in the evening. And for travelers focused on nature and serenity, the Ward Creek Trail or the private rainforest hike provide quiet, reflective options.
Booking early is advised, especially during the busy cruise season, to secure your preferred time and group size.
Final Thoughts
Ketchikan offers a diverse range of walking adventures—from cultural totem parks and rainforest hikes to wildlife viewing and ghost stories. For a comprehensive experience, the Rainforest Walk & Totem Park stands out with its blend of nature and culture. If you prefer something more customized or private, the Rainforest Hiking Private Tour is your best bet.
Whether you’re after educational insights, wildlife encounters, or just a peaceful walk, there’s a tour that will fit your style. Remember, the earlier you book, the better your chances of securing that perfect Ketchikan walking experience.