Ketchikan is a town where history, culture, and natural beauty collide. Its colorful waterfront, lively fishing fleet, and lush rainforests make it a perfect place for walking tours that go beyond just sightseeing. Unlike larger cities, Ketchikan’s small size means you get an intimate look at its stories, characters, and wilderness, often with local guides who know every corner. Whether you’re interested in historic bars, native totem poles, or rainforest hikes, these guided walks offer authentic experiences you won’t forget.
What makes Ketchikan stand out? Its rich maritime past, vibrant red-light districts, and proximity to Tongass National Forest make for unique adventures. Many tours combine walking with tasting local drinks, wildlife spotting, or learning about native traditions. These tours are perfect for travelers who want to experience the city’s lively waterfront, uncover hidden stories, and explore Alaska’s wilderness without straying too far from the cruise ship dock.
Quick Overview
Our list features five top walking tours, each offering a different taste of Ketchikan. From lively historical bar crawls to peaceful rainforest walks, there’s something for every type of explorer. Whether you prefer a small-group experience with personalized stories or a longer adventure in nature, each tour provides a distinct window into the First City. For more ideas, check out the Cruisin’ and Boozin’ and other tours listed below.
1. Cruisin’ and Boozin’ – 90 minute Historical Walking Tour of Sites and Bars
This tour combines history with fun—a 90-minute walk through Ketchikan’s waterfront and red-light district, paired with visits to three historic bars. It’s perfect if you want a casual, social experience that mixes storytelling with local drinks. It’s rated perfect 5.0 out of 5 from 28 reviews, thanks to its engaging guides and personalized vibe. Priced at $95 per person, it’s a good value considering the included adult beverages and intimate size—limited to just 12 people.
The tour starts at the Arctic Bar, where you sample local brews and hear tales of the Arctic’s past disasters. Next, you visit the Sourdough Bar, famous for its large trophy fish and shipwreck wall of shame. The final stop is Creek Street, where you can snap photos of salmon swimming upstream and hear stories about Ketchikan’s colorful red-light district. This tour is ideal if you’re interested in local lore, lively pubs, and a small-group experience. It’s great for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace and storytelling over pints. The only downside? If you’re not a fan of drinking, this may not be your first choice.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a fun, relaxed deep dive into Ketchikan’s colorful past, perfect for those who want both history and local taverns in an informal setting.
2. Ketchikan Rainforest Canoe and Nature Walk
For a more peaceful, nature-focused experience, the Ketchikan Rainforest Canoe and Nature Walk ranks high at 4.5 stars from 81 reviews. At $145 per person, this 3.5-hour tour is a bit pricier, but it offers a unique blend of paddling and walking. It’s perfect for travelers who want an up-close look at Tongass National Forest and learn about its native plants, animals, and cultural history.
The tour begins with a scenic coach ride to Lake Harriet Hunt, where you’ll paddle in a native-style canoe across a secluded mountain lake. The canoes are stable and easy to maneuver, making it accessible for most fitness levels. After paddling, you’ll take a guided walk through the rainforest, spotting bald eagles, seals, and even the carnivorous Sundew plant. The experience is rounded out with hearty snacks, including smoked fish and clam chowder, and hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple.
Guests praise guides for their knowledge and friendliness, often mentioning how the wildlife sightings and the opportunity to learn about native culture stand out. It’s suitable for those who appreciate a slow-paced, immersive nature experience** that combines paddling with walking. The main drawback? It’s more expensive than some other options, but the intimate connection with nature justifies the price.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for wildlife lovers and those seeking a relaxing yet active way to explore Alaska’s rainforests and native traditions.
3. Fish Tales & Ales – 90 minute Historical Walking Tour of Fishing Fleet and Bars
If you’re intrigued by Ketchikan’s fishing heritage and love the idea of sampling local drinks, Fish Tales & Ales offers a lively 90-minute stroll. Rated perfect 5.0 from 7 reviews, this tour focuses on the fishing industry’s role in shaping the city’s culture, combined with visits to favorite local watering holes.
Starting near the Visitor Center, you’ll visit Sourdough Cocktail Bar—also known as The Shipwreck Bar—where you’ll taste a house specialty. Then, you’ll walk along Creek Street, seeing historic buildings and watching salmon swim upstream. The final stop is Potlatch Bar, where you can learn about the fishing fleet and hear stories about fishermen’s lives.
This tour is small, limited to 12 travelers, which ensures a personal experience. It’s perfect for those who want to combine history with socializing, with all drinks included. The pace is relaxed, making it suitable for most fitness levels, but it’s best suited to those who enjoy local tavern atmospheres and storytelling.
Bottom Line: For a small-group, drink-inclusive experience emphasizing fishing culture and lively taverns, this tour hits the spot.
4. Ketchikan: Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary and Totem Park Walk
At number 4, the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary and Totem Park Walk offers a balanced outdoor experience for nature lovers. For $105, this 3-hour tour explores 40 acres of private rainforest, featuring native wildlife, totem poles, and a historic sawmill.
The guided walk begins at the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau, then takes you into the rainforest, where your guide shares insights on the flora, fauna, and native culture. You might spot bald eagles, black bears, and seals. The highlight is the Totem Park, which displays Tsimshian carvings and provides valuable insights into native traditions. The tour ends at the historic Herring Bay Lumber Company sawmill.
Reviews note the knowledgeable guides and the close encounters with wildlife like black bears and eagles. It’s suitable for travelers who want a moderate walk with cultural learning, making it accessible for most fitness levels. The inclusion of native totem poles and wildlife watching makes it a compelling choice for those interested in native culture and natural scenery.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a well-rounded nature and cultural experience, perfect for families or those who want a mix of wilderness and history.
5. Beautiful Nature Walk On Ketchikan’s Ward Creek Trail
Finally, for those seeking quiet reflection amid nature, the Ward Creek Trail Nature Hike provides a peaceful 3.5-hour walk through Ketchikan’s lush woods. Priced at $117.30 per person, it’s suitable for active travelers who want a more extensive hike.
The guide leads you along a curated route through scenic spots, with plenty of opportunities for photos and quiet moments. Small group sizes ensure a personalized experience, with plenty of time for conversations about the local environment and history. While reviews are currently unavailable, the emphasis on scenic, reflective walking makes this a good pick for nature enthusiasts.
It’s best for those comfortable with longer walks and seeking an authentic wilderness experience without the crowds. It offers a more immersive nature experience than some of the shorter tours, making it ideal for travelers who want to connect deeply with the landscape.
Bottom Line: For outdoor lovers wanting a longer, more contemplative walk, this trail fits the bill.
How to Choose the Right Ketchikan Walking Tour
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend ashore. If you enjoy history and social experiences, the Cruisin’ and Boozin’ and Fish Tales & Ales tours deliver lively insights paired with local drinks. For those craving nature and wildlife, the Rainforest Canoe and Nature Walk and Rainforest Sanctuary offer peaceful outdoor experiences, with the latter adding cultural depth.
Budget-wise, expect to pay from $80 to $145, but remember, value depends on what you want—a quick drink and story or a full immersion in rainforests and native culture. Check availability early, especially for popular tours, and consider booking in advance for the best times, typically spring through early fall.
Final Thoughts
Ketchikan offers a rich variety of walking tours that highlight its maritime roots, native culture, and wild landscapes. Whether you prefer a small-group drink crawl, wildlife paddling adventure, or a peaceful rainforest walk, you’ll find a tour that matches your interests and energy level. Two standout options are the [Cruisin’ and Boozin’] experience for those wanting a fun social outing, and the Rainforest Canoe and Nature Walk for nature lovers seeking a deeper connection with Alaska’s wilderness.
To make the most of your visit, consider what excites you most—history, wildlife, native culture, or just relaxing in nature—and pick a tour that fits your style. Remember, popular tours fill up quickly, so booking early is always a good idea. Whatever you choose, these walks will give you a genuine taste of Ketchikan’s spirit and scenery.