Driving Stops in Ketchikan?

Question

We're heading to Ketchikan in June on a cruise, and were planning on renting a car to drive around, so we have more freedom. Right now were planning on driving over to Herring Cove and stopping at Rotary Beach, I was wondering if anyone had any other ideas of where to stop while were on that side of the island? Thanks for any help!

Answer

Ketchikan is a compact but scenic area, and renting a car can give you flexibility to explore beyond the cruise port. Driving toward Herring Cove is a great plan, and there are several interesting stops and sights along the way and nearby.

Here are some recommended stops while driving on the western side of Ketchikan Island:

Rotary Beach: A beautiful spot for a short walk, tide pooling, and enjoying waterfront views. Perfect for a quick break and a picnic.
Settler’s Cove: A small park area near Herring Cove with trails, picnic spots, and forested scenery. Good for a short hike or a nature stroll.
Herring Cove Recreation Area: Offers a few walking trails, beach access, and opportunities for bird watching. It’s a peaceful area to explore the Alaskan coastline.
Whiskey Creek Trail: A short forested trail that provides views over the cove and a quiet spot to experience Ketchikan’s temperate rainforest environment.
Gravina Island Views: As you drive along the roads near Herring Cove, there are pullouts with great views of Gravina Island and the waterways, ideal for photography.

If you have extra time, consider these additional stops a bit further out or on nearby roads:

Southeast Alaska Discovery Center: Located near downtown, if you haven’t visited yet, it gives context on the region’s wildlife, history, and culture.
Totem Bight State Historical Park: On the way back toward Ketchikan, this park has a collection of totem poles and a short interpretive trail. It’s a good cultural stop without straying far from town.

Tips for driving in Ketchikan:

The roads are narrow and often winding, so drive cautiously, especially if unfamiliar with rainforest conditions.
Plan for limited services along Herring Cove roads—gas stations and restaurants are mostly downtown, so fill up and bring snacks if needed.
Parking at trailheads and beaches can be limited, so arriving early helps secure a spot and avoid waiting.

Overall, the drive to Herring Cove with stops at Rotary Beach, Settler’s Cove, and Herring Cove Recreation Area provides a great combination of beach, forest, and scenic views. Pairing it with a cultural stop like Totem Bight on the way back makes for a well-rounded half-day or full-day outing.

Driving Stops in Ketchikan?

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