subscribe to our newsletter

Ketchikan Alaska Photos

All of the Ketchikan Alaska photographs on this site are available as stock photos for commercial licensing or as fine art display pictures for home and office decor.

Ketchikan overview

Ketchikan, southeast, Alaska
Aerial view of Cruise ship in Tongass Narrows and the town of Ketchikan, southeast, Alaska. © Patrick J. Endres

Ketchikan, known as the Salmon capital of the world, is situated five hundred miles north of Seattle. It is Alaska's "first city," and serves as the first port of call for many cruise ships visiting the state. The population of Ketchikan is approximately 8,000 people. The coast mountain range separates the city from the mainland, and its maritime climate is know for abundant rainfall (averaging 150+ inches a year). Tourism and fishing are the cities main industries.

Ketchikan totem poles

Totem, Ketchikan, southeast, Alaska
Stephen Jackson, a Tlingit artist carves a totem pole at the Saxman totem village, Ketchikan, Alaska.© Patrick J. Endres
Ketchikan visitors view totem poles in a variety of locations including Totem Bight and Saxman Village. Totem poles tell a story. When the owner presents a pole, usually at a potlatch, the figures on the pole help the story be remembered by those present. Saxman Village holds the largest collection of totem poles in the world, and more continue to be caved by Native artists.

Downtown Ketchikan

horse drawn trolly, Ketchikan
Horse drawn trolley transports tourists in downtown, Ketchikan, Alaska.© Patrick J. Endres
As a popular tourist town, historic downtown Ketchikan attracts many visitors from large cruise ships. They patronize local shops, stroll famous Creek Street, visit dolly's house museum, the Tongass Historical Museum, the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center and more. Those visiting for a longer time may travel to surrounding areas to visit Misty Fjords National Monument or one of many bear viewing areas.

back to top of page

Ketchikan
Welcome to Ketchikan sign, downtown, Ketchikan, Alaska.

Totem pole at Saxman village, Ketchikan
Totems at the entrance to Saxman Village, Ketchikan, Alaska.

Ketchikan boat harbor
Thomas Basin boat harbor in downtown Ketchikan, Alaska.

Ketchikan totem pole
Saxman Village holds the largest collection of totem poles in the world, Ketchikan, Alaska.

Creek Street, Ketchikan
Famous Creek Street in downtown Ketchikan, southeast, Alaska.