Ketchikan Ghost Walk

If you’re curious about the mysterious stories hiding in Alaska’s First City, the Ketchikan Ghost Walk offers an engaging way to explore its darker, supernatural corners. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed descriptions, reviews, and itinerary paint a pretty compelling picture. It’s a mix of storytelling, local legends, and real ghostly tales that breathes life into Ketchikan’s history — with a supernatural twist.

What really draws us in are the local legends woven throughout the tour, like tales of shadowy figures, floating beds, and cryptids such as the Kushtaka and Sasquatch. Plus, the fact that the guides are described as expert storytellers suggests you’ll get a vivid, authentic experience. On the flip side, some travelers might find the pace a bit quick, with stops lasting just around 5-15 minutes each. Still, if you love history with a spooky edge or are into ghost stories, this tour could be just the right fit.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a good story, aren’t bothered by the supernatural, and want an evening activity that combines history with a hint of the eerie. It’s not overly scary, but if you’re squeamish about ghostly tales or haunted places, you might want to approach it with a pinch of skepticism. Overall, it’s a fun way to spend two hours uncovering Ketchikan’s haunted past.

Key Points

• Authentic local legends blend history and supernatural tales for an immersive experience.
• Expert storytellers enhance the authenticity and entertainment value.
• The tour visits notable historic sites with a haunted twist, like the Gilmore Hotel and Creek Streets.
• The 2-hour size keeps it manageable while covering multiple haunted spots.
• It’s booked in advance, indicating popularity and planning.
• Price at $34.99 offers a budget-friendly way to explore Ketchikan’s spooky side.

Getting to Know the Ketchikan Ghost Walk

This guided haunted history tour takes you through the streets of Ketchikan, starting at the waterfront and weaving through some of its most historic and supposedly haunted sites. Led by guides from American Ghost Walks, the experience promises a combination of local legends, real sightings, and supernatural phenomena. It’s a storytelling journey that aims to bring Ketchikan’s eerie past to life — or perhaps, to the afterlife.

The tour is designed to be about two hours long, which is a good length to keep your attention without feeling rushed. It’s interesting that the tour is conducted via mobile ticket, making it easy to join in without hassle. The meeting point is conveniently located at The Rock on Front Street, right in the heart of town, making it accessible whether you’re staying nearby or just passing through.

The tour’s evening start at 7:00 pm is perfect for those who enjoy exploring after sunset, when the city’s shadows grow long and the stories seem more alive. Plus, with a maximum group size of 20 travelers, it maintains a relatively intimate atmosphere, ideal for asking questions or soaking in the stories at your own pace.

The Stops and Their Stories

The Rock

Your journey begins at this waterfront sculpture honoring Ketchikan’s pioneers — loggers, bush pilots, frontierswomen, and a Tlingit drummer. This spot sets the tone, linking the town’s history with a spiritual connection, thanks to the drummer said to channel the spirit world. It’s a quick 10-minute stop but a compelling one, worth starting your adventure with.

Ketchikan Sign

Next, you’ll snap a photo under the town’s iconic archway. But here’s where the local legend kicks in: the sign once twisted into a frown, believed to be a bad omen for fishermen. It’s a fun, short stop, but one that hints at how local stories blend superstition and history.

Gilmore Hotel

One of the most haunted sites, the Gilmore Hotel is rich with tales of ghostly apparitions, including a shadowy man with a cigar, chairs that move on their own, and a ghostly woman in white who stares before vanishing. Guests have reportedly seen these spirits, adding credibility to the legend. This stop lasts 15 minutes and includes the admission — making it a highlight for anyone interested in ghostly encounters.

Tongass Trading Company

Inside Alaska’s oldest operating store, staff have experienced footsteps, moving objects, and even conversations with unseen coworkers. It’s a lively, everyday place with a spooky twist. This free stop gives you a glimpse into how the supernatural is woven into the town’s daily life.

Eagle Park

Beneath a carved eagle, you’ll hear about the Thunderbird, a legendary being said to cause lightning and thunder with its wings. Whether you believe it or not, some have claimed to see it, turning folklore into a tangible legend. This 10-minute stop adds a mythic dimension to the tour.

Pioneer Hall & The OutPost

Built by Six-Shooter Grant, this is Ketchikan’s oldest building. Rumors swirl about him never truly leaving after his sudden death. The Oldest Building and the department store, with footsteps and children’s laughter, might make you wonder about spirits of the past still playing tricks. These stops last around 10 minutes each and are great for history buffs and ghost enthusiasts alike.

Totem Poles and The Star Gallery

Ketchikan’s Chief Kyan and Chief Johnson totem poles tell stories of spirits, reincarnation, and fog warnings, blending natural elements with the supernatural. The Star Gallery, once a brothel, is said to whisper with voices from its past. Guests have reported hearing calls like “Hello,” adding an eerie touch to these cultural landmarks.

Dolly’s House Museum & Creek Bridge

The infamous Dolly’s House, once run by the town’s most famous madam, reportedly still hosts shadows, perfume scents, and sightings of her lover trying to return. The nearby creek bridge, where many never crossed, is said to remember those who fell or were pushed — water and spirit stories intertwined. These shorter stops leave you pondering the town’s darker history.

The Experience, Pricing, and Practical Details

At $34.99 per person, this tour presents a pretty reasonable value for an immersive 2-hour experience that combines storytelling, local history, and a touch of the supernatural. Since it’s booked approximately 70 days in advance on average, it’s clear that it’s quite popular among visitors looking for a unique evening activity.

The guided tour is designed to be engaging, with expert storytellers leading the way. It’s not a haunted house or a jump-scare horror experience but rather a narratively rich exploration of Ketchikan’s shadows and legends. The tour is suitable for most travelers; it’s accessible, with service animals allowed, and doesn’t specify age restrictions, so it likely appeals to both adults and older children.

One thing to note is that snacks or drinks aren’t included, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry or want a drink afterward. The tour is also weather-dependent, which makes sense given it’s an outdoor experience. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What the reviews say

While only one review is available, it’s quite positive. Laura appreciated the “really interesting history and experiences” and highlighted guide Matt as “fabulous” and very responsive to questions. She felt that the tour added significantly to her trip experience, which suggests the storytelling is engaging and authentic.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This ghost walk is ideal for history buffs, folklore lovers, and anyone curious about Ketchikan’s darker stories. If you’re looking for an authentic, story-driven experience that combines local legends with real sites, you’ll enjoy this tour. It’s also suited for travelers who appreciate a bit of spooky entertainment but aren’t seeking scares or horror.

Since the tour is relatively short, it’s perfect as an evening activity after a day of exploring the town or coming in from a cruise. If you’re interested in learning about the town’s haunted past and hearing captivating stories from knowledgeable guides, this will likely be a highlight.

However, if you prefer indoor, structured attractions or aren’t interested in ghost stories, this might not be your first choice. Also, travelers who dislike walking outdoors at night or those with mobility issues might want to consider the walk’s outdoor nature and evening timing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
The description doesn’t specify age restrictions, but given the nature of the stories, it’s probably best for teens and older. It’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, but older children who enjoy spooky stories may find it enjoyable.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 2 hours, covering multiple historic and haunted sites around Ketchikan.

What is the meeting point?
You’ll meet at The Rock, located at 210 Front St. This central location makes it convenient regardless of where you’re staying.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The provided information doesn’t specify accessibility features. If this is a concern, it’s best to contact Alaska Ghost Walks directly.

Are tickets refundable?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start aren’t refundable.

What’s included in the ticket price?
The guided haunted history tour is included. No snacks or drinks are part of the package.

Can I bring service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed, making the experience accessible for those with disabilities.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people typically join the tour?
It’s limited to 20 travelers, fostering a more intimate experience.

Final Thoughts

The Ketchikan Ghost Walk offers a unique way to experience the town’s lesser-known side. Combining local legends, historic sites, and a supernatural narrative, it’s a fun and atmospheric evening activity. The guides’ storytelling expertise seems to be a highlight, making the experience memorable without being overly scary.

For those interested in Ketchikan’s history with a ghostly flavor, this tour provides a compelling blend of storytelling and cultural insight. It’s accessible, reasonably priced, and well-suited for travelers who want a taste of the mysterious side of Alaska’s First City. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, the stories and sights will leave you with plenty to think about — long after the tour ends.

If you’re into tales of spirits, cryptids, and legends with a historical backbone, this ghost walk is worth considering. Just remember to dress warmly, bring your curiosity, and enjoy the tales of Ketchikan’s haunted streets.