Misty Fjords National Monument Floatplane Tour

Exploring Misty Fjords from the Sky: A Floatplane Adventure from Ketchikan

If you’re headed to Ketchikan and craving a genuine sense of Alaska’s wild beauty, the Misty Fjords National Monument Floatplane Tour offers an unforgettable way to see it. For around $389 per person, you get about two hours of flying time—though the actual scenic adventure lasts just over an hour—taking you over glassy lakes, waterfalls, and towering snow-capped peaks. Your departure point is the Taquan Air Tours base, right in town, and the small-group size (max 12 travelers) promises a more intimate experience.

What we love most about this tour is how personalized it feels, with a guaranteed window seat ensuring you won’t miss a thing. Plus, the engaging live narration from the pilot adds a layer of insight that elevates the views from simply beautiful to truly meaningful. On top of that, the tour includes private transportation and a full guarantee you won’t miss your cruise departure, making it as practical as it is picturesque.

One thing to consider is the weather dependency—as with many scenic flights in Alaska, poor weather can lead to cancellations. Several reviews mention cancellations due to inclement weather, so flexibility and a backup plan are wise. This tour suits travelers who love nature, wildlife, and aerial perspectives, particularly those who appreciate a small, relaxed group and are eager for a narrated journey into Alaska’s wilderness.

Key Points

• Breathtaking Views: Fly over Misty Fjords, lakes, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks for a truly panoramic experience.
• Expert Narration: Learn about the area’s wildlife, geography, and history from your knowledgeable pilot.
• Guaranteed Window Seat: No worries about missing the scenery—your seat is reserved.
• Small Group & Personal Service: With a maximum of 12 travelers, expect a quieter, more engaging flight.
• Weather Sensitivity: Flights depend on good weather; cancellations are possible.
• Value & Convenience: Private transportation and a full guarantee to meet your cruise schedule add peace of mind.

A Closer Look at the Misty Fjords Floatplane Tour

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Your adventure begins at the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau, a central and easy-to-find meeting point. From there, a short drive whisks you to Taquan Air‘s hangar, where your floatplane awaits. Once aboard, you’ll buckle in for a roughly 60-minute flight over some of Alaska’s most stunning landscapes.

The Misty Fjords area is famous for its steep sea cliffs, fjords, and towering rock walls that rise sharply from the ocean—some up to 3,000 feet. As your pilot circles above, you’ll get a birds-eye view of these natural wonders, which are often shrouded in mist, giving the area its name. Several reviews highlight how “incredible” and “beautiful” the scenery is, even amid occasional clouds or overcast skies.

Highlights of the Flight

• Wildlife Viewing: Expect to spot eagles, and possibly bears or other wildlife, as you fly over lakes and wooded areas. Some reviewers mention seeing “lots to take in” despite weather conditions.
• Aerial Perspective on Wilderness: Flying over Revillagigedo Island and the Tongass National Forest, which is about 17 million acres—the largest national forest in the U.S.—you’ll realize just how vast and untouched Alaska really is.
• Educational Narration: Your pilot, often praised for being “knowledgeable” and “passionate,” shares insights about the landscape, wildlife, and local history, making the experience as informative as it is scenic.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Many travelers describe the flight as “smooth,” with pilots like Joe earning praise for their professionalism and friendliness. “Joe was knowledgeable and friendly. I felt very safe during the flight even though this was my first time in a float plane,” one reviewer notes.

The views, even on cloudy days, have been described as “incredible,” with some mentioning that flying over rugged mountains and misty landscapes creates an “awe-inspiring” feeling. Several reviews emphasize how **worth the price is, citing the “amazing views” and “good narration” that made the trip special.

Considerations and Cancellations

Weather is the biggest wildcard—several reviews recount cancellations due to inclement weather, with some travelers disappointed but understanding that safety comes first. The full refund policy if canceled due to weather offers peace of mind, but it’s worth planning for potential rescheduling.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This floatplane tour appeals most to nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those seeking a unique perspective on Alaskan wilderness. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with small aircraft, enjoy learning from guides, and appreciate the thrill of seeing Alaska from above. Travelers who value personalized service and want a memorable, authentic experience will find this tour suits their needs well.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $389, this floatplane tour offers a remarkable mix of scenic beauty, educational narration, and intimate group size. Compared to larger boat cruises or bus tours, flying provides a more immediate and visceral connection to Alaska’s striking landscape. The views are truly spectacular, often described as “beautiful,” “incredible,” and “worth every penny” by past guests.

While weather can sometimes interfere, the full guarantee to not miss your cruise makes this a solid choice for travelers worried about timing. If you’re looking for an adventure that combines thrill, scenery, and storytelling, this flight over Misty Fjords could be the highlight of your Alaskan trip.

This tour is especially suitable for those who want a small-group experience where they can absorb the scenery without the distraction of large crowds. It’s a fantastic choice for photographers, wildlife watchers, and anyone eager for an authentic Alaskan adventure from a perspective few will ever forget.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the flight?
The total flight time is approximately one hour, with the experience lasting about two hours when including transportation to and from the departure point.

Where does the tour depart from?
The tour starts at the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau at 131 Front St. from where you’ll be transported to the Taquan Air hangar for your flight.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes private transportation, a window seat guarantee, an engaging narration about the scenery and wildlife, and the flight itself.

Are there any age or health restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. Passengers need to provide their names, weights, and cruise/hotel details at booking.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is dependent on good weather. If canceled due to weather conditions, you’ll be offered a full refund or an alternative date.

Can I see wildlife during the flight?
While wildlife sightings depend on luck and nature’s mood, many guests report spotting eagles, bears, and other animals from the air.

How many people are in the group?
This is a small-group experience with a maximum of 12 travelers, providing a more personal and relaxed environment.

What should I bring?
Bring warm layers, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the stunning vistas. The aircraft is small, so dress comfortably.

Is this experience suitable for my cruise schedule?
Yes, the tour offers a full guarantee that you won’t miss your ship’s departure, making it a reliable choice for cruise passengers.

To sum it up, the Misty Fjords National Monument Floatplane Tour is a carefully curated, visually breathtaking experience that highlights Alaska’s rugged charm from an exclusive vantage point. It’s best suited for travelers seeking an authentic, intimate, and educational adventure. While weather can occasionally be a hurdle, the overall value, personable guides, and stunning scenery make this a standout choice among Ketchikan excursions. Whether you’re a keen photographer or simply someone eager to see Alaska’s wild side from above, this flight promises memories that will linger long after you’ve touched down.