Ketchikan AK

Ketchikan – Alaska’s First City and the Salmon Capital of the World, this charming waterfront town is a gateway to wild beauty and native heritage. Nestled between lush Tongass National Forest and the Inside Passage, Ketchikan brims with natural wonder, rich culture, and small-town warmth. Whether you're strolling along colorful Creek Street, spotting bald eagles in the trees, or exploring ancient totem poles, Ketchikan delivers unforgettable moments with every tide and trail.

• Population: ~8,000
• Weather: Cool and rainy (35–65°F); mild summers, wet winters.
• Places To Visit: Totem Bight State Historical Park, Creek Street, Misty Fjords National Monument, Saxman Native Village, Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show.
• Top Activities: Salmon fishing, ziplining through rainforest canopies, wildlife watching, kayaking along the coast, exploring local art galleries and museums.
• Famous Food: Fresh-caught salmon and halibut, smoked seafood, Alaskan king crab legs, reindeer sausage, and locally brewed craft beer.

Ketchikan, Alaska is known for its scenic beauty, rich Native culture, and thriving tourism and fishing industries. Located in the southeastern part of the state, it offers unique career opportunities influenced by its natural resources and small-town economy. Below are some of the top jobs that are currently in demand in Ketchikan.

Top 5 Jobs in Ketchikan, AK

Ketchikan, Alaska might be a small city, but don’t let the size fool you—there are plenty of awesome places where students can relax, recharge, and just have fun. From stunning nature spots to cozy cafes and quirky local gems, Ketchikan has a chill vibe that’s perfect for kicking back with friends or even enjoying some solo time.

Creek Street Boardwalk – It’s more than just a tourist attraction. This iconic wooden boardwalk along Ketchikan Creek is full of character, art galleries, and peaceful views. It’s a great place to stroll, snap pics, and soak in the small-town charm.

Pilothouse Coffee – If you're looking for a warm space to study or chat with friends, this local coffee shop offers comfy seating, delicious drinks, and a mellow atmosphere. Grab a latte, plug in your headphones, and power through that reading list—or just hang out and people-watch.

Dude Mountain Trail – Want to get out in nature? This trail rewards hikers with panoramic views that are totally worth the climb. It's not too long, but definitely a bit of a workout. It’s perfect for when you need to clear your head or feel inspired by the beauty of your surroundings.

Water Street Tunnels – These historic, slightly mysterious tunnels are fun to explore with friends. They have an old-school vibe and a sense of adventure, making them a cool photo spot and conversation starter.

Totem Bight State Historical Park – Need some fresh air and peaceful vibes? This park is a quiet escape filled with totem poles, coastal views, and a calm walking path. Whether you’re into history or just want a pretty place to decompress, it’s a top pick.

Bar Harbor Restaurant for Chill Evenings – While it’s a favorite for tourists, locals love it too. This waterfront spot is a laid-back place to share a meal with friends, watch the boats, and maybe even catch a sea lion drifting by. Sunsets here? Unreal.

The Plaza Mall – If the weather’s being, well, Alaskan, this small local mall is good for a little indoor escape. There's a movie theater, a few shops, and plenty of spots to just hang out—nothing fancy, but comfortable and familiar.

Rainbird Trail – This short trail right near town is great for a low-key hike or nature walk when you want a quick break. The forest is home to some giant trees and occasional wildlife sightings. Super relaxing—and it’s only minutes from campus or downtown.

Sweet Mermaids – A unique boutique café that doubles as a local hangout. You can sip tea or smoothies while browsing handmade goodies or listening to live acoustic music on certain nights. It's quirky, cozy, and totally Instagram-worthy.

Whether you're up for a quiet walk in the woods or a cozy chat over coffee, Ketchikan has low-key but memorable spots where students can chill, recharge, and have a little fun in between classes or on the weekend. It’s all about finding your favorite corner of this Alaskan gem.

Ketchikan, AK, nestled amid stunning natural beauty, offers unique opportunities for higher education. While it's a smaller city, local colleges and university centers provide accessible education, specialized training, and a close-knit learning environment. Students can pursue associate degrees, job-ready certificates, and transfer pathways to four-year universities—both public and private.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Ketchikan

University of Alaska Southeast Ketchikan Campus – The leading higher education institution in Ketchikan, UAS offers associate and bachelor’s degree programs, including Marine Biology, Education, Liberal Arts, and Business Administration. Students benefit from small classes, direct faculty support, and hands-on learning in the heart of Alaska’s Inside Passage.

Ketchikan Campus Technical Center (part of UAS) – This technical center is renowned for workforce development. It provides affordable, high-quality certification programs and training in welding, marine transportation, health science, and more—ideal for students seeking practical skills for immediate employment.

Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC) – Distance Programs – While AVTEC’s main campus is in Seward, its distance offerings are accessible in Ketchikan. Residents can earn certifications in high-demand trades or specialized fields such as accounting, IT, and maritime studies without relocating.

University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) – Distance Education – UAA partners with Ketchikan's learning centers to offer a range of online and hybrid courses. Ketchikan students can begin their college journey locally, then transfer seamlessly to complete bachelor’s or even master’s degrees through the UA system.

UAS Ketchikan Dual Enrollment Programs – For high school students, this program offers the chance to jumpstart college with dual-credit courses, making postsecondary education more affordable and accessible. Students earn college credit while still attending high school in Ketchikan.

Top Private Colleges & Universities Serving Ketchikan

Alaska Pacific University (APU) – Distance Programs – While APU’s main campus is in Anchorage, its robust online and hybrid degree programs in Environmental Science, Business, Counseling, and Health Occupations are accessible to Ketchikan students, supporting academic goals without leaving home.

Charter College (Online Division) – Known for career-focused education, Charter College serves Ketchikan through online programs in healthcare, business, IT, and trades. Their flexible structure makes higher education attainable for working adults or recent graduates.

Corban University (Alaska Distance Learning Programs) – Corban University, based in Oregon, offers select faith-based online programs and courses accessible to students in Ketchikan who seek a private Christian college education from home.

University of Providence (Online) – With its commitment to accessible education, the University of Providence gives Ketchikan students opportunities for bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Healthcare Administration, Education, and Liberal Arts through online formats.

Wayland Baptist University – Virtual Programs – Wayland Baptist is a respected private university offering fully online associate, bachelor’s, and master’s programs in business, education, religion, and more, all available to residents of Ketchikan, AK.

Whether you’re starting your academic journey, looking to change careers, or seeking advanced skills, Ketchikan’s colleges and partner institutions make high-quality education accessible and practical—fueling local talent for Alaska’s future.

Ketchikan, Alaska might be a small and close-knit community, but it offers quality education through its public and private high schools. Nestled in the heart of Southeast Alaska, Ketchikan's schools emphasize academic achievement, community involvement, and individualized attention. Whether you're a local parent, planning a move, or just exploring educational options, here are the top high schools in Ketchikan that help students thrive both in and out of the classroom.

Top Public High Schools in Ketchikan, AK

• Ketchikan High School (Kayhi) – Serving grades 9–12, Kayhi is the largest public high school in Ketchikan. Known for its robust Advanced Placement (AP) program, active student council, and competitive sports teams, the school focuses on preparing students for college and beyond.
• Revilla Junior/Senior High School – A small, alternative school for students who need a non-traditional approach to learning. With a lower student-to-teacher ratio and a flexible learning environment, Revilla offers an encouraging setting for academic and personal growth.

Top Private High Schools near Ketchikan, AK

• Ketchikan Seventh-day Adventist School – While primarily serving K-10 students, this private Christian school offers a faith-based education with personalized academic support. Students benefit from small class sizes and a strong moral foundation.
• Holy Name Catholic School – This private Catholic school offers education through grade 8 but has strong community ties and supports students transitioning to high school at Kayhi or private institutions outside the area. It’s a solid choice for families seeking early academic and spiritual formation.
• Pacific Northern Academy (Anchorage – Online Option) – While not physically in Ketchikan, this private school offers online learning options that are accessible to Ketchikan students. It combines rigorous academics with innovative technology, allowing dedicated students to learn at their own pace under expert guidance.

Although Ketchikan has a limited number of high schools compared to larger cities, the options available are community-driven, student-focused, and well-suited for families seeking a more personalized and supportive learning environment. Whether you’re looking for an academically rich public school or a values-based private option, Ketchikan provides pathways for every learner to thrive.

Nestled along the southeastern coast of Alaska, Ketchikan is known for its rich indigenous heritage, vibrant arts scene, and breathtaking wilderness—not for professional sports teams. Due to its small population of just over 8,000 people and remote location accessible mainly by air or sea, Ketchikan does not have any major league professional sports teams like those in bigger cities such as Los Angeles or New York. However, that doesn't mean the spirit of sports is absent from this tight-knit Alaskan community.

In fact, sports enthusiasts in Ketchikan find plenty of ways to stay active and support local teams at a grassroots level. The town boasts a strong culture of high school and amateur sports, with community pride closely tied to school spirit.

• Ketchikan High School (Kayhi) Kings – The Kayhi Kings are a beloved symbol of local pride. The high school sports teams compete in basketball, wrestling, track and field, and more. The annual basketball games against other Southeast Alaska schools often bring the whole town together and are a major social event.
• Local and Recreational Leagues – From youth soccer to adult softball leagues, Ketchikan supports local sports through numerous community-driven programs. The strong sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship makes every game feel like a hometown celebration.

While you won't find an NHL, NFL, MLB, or NBA franchise in Ketchikan, residents still follow big-league teams passionately. Many locals align with professional teams from nearby states or based on personal, family, or historical ties. It’s not uncommon to find fans rooting for the Seattle Seahawks in the NFL or the Portland Trail Blazers in the NBA. Local bars and community centers often host game nights for big events like the Super Bowl or March Madness.

Even without major stadiums or sports franchises, Ketchikan celebrates the heart of sports: teamwork, passion, and community. Whether it's cheering high school basketball under Friday night lights or catching a baseball game on a weekend fishing trip, you’ll find that in Ketchikan, the love of sports isn’t about size—it’s about spirit.

Ketchikan, Alaska is a treasure trove of natural beauty, native culture, and quirky charm. Nestled in the southeastern part of the state, this coastal city has a rich history and plenty of surprises. Whether you're planning a visit or just curious, here are 10 fun facts about Ketchikan that might just make you fall in love with this Alaskan gem:

1. Salmon Capital of the World – Ketchikan isn’t just known for great fishing—it holds the title of the Salmon Capital of the World. Each summer, millions of salmon swim upstream right through the heart of the city!
2. Rain, Rain and More Rain – It's one of the rainiest cities in North America. Ketchikan gets over 140 inches of rainfall a year—so don’t forget your raincoat!
3. Home to the World's Largest Collection of Totem Poles – This small city boasts the largest collection of standing totem poles in the world, many of which can be found at Totem Bight and Saxman Village.
4. Stilted Streets – Parts of the city, like Creek Street, were built on wooden pilings over the water. In fact, this famous boardwalk was once Ketchikan’s red-light district during the early 1900s.
5. Eagle Eye Central – Bald eagles are a common sight here. With a little luck, you can spot them perched on streetlights or flying over the harbor.
6. No Roads Out – You can’t drive to Ketchikan from the rest of Alaska—it’s only accessible by boat or plane. That’s part of what makes it feel like a true hidden gem.
7. Native Culture Is Everywhere – Ketchikan is located in the traditional territory of the Tlingit people, and their influence is found in the art, language, and traditions seen throughout the city.
8. Wildlife Wonderland – It’s not uncommon to see black bears, seals, humpback whales, and more. Just take a stroll or a boat tour, and Mother Nature might put on a show.
9. Airport on an Island – The Ketchikan International Airport is located on Gravina Island, and travelers have to take a ferry across the Tongass Narrows just to get to or from town.
10. Historic Lumber Days – Before tourism, Ketchikan made its name in the timber industry. Many of the buildings downtown still reflect that early 20th-century charm.