Ketchikan: Ghost Walk Guided Tour

Ketchikan, Alaska’s First City, isn’t just about rugged wilderness and colorful totem poles—there’s also an intriguing, spine-tingling history lurking behind its charming streets. The Ketchikan Ghost Walk, offered by American Ghost Walks, promises an evening filled with ghostly tales, local legends, and eerie encounters, all woven into the fabric of this historic port town. At just $35 per person for a two-hour stroll, it’s a surprisingly affordable way to add some supernatural spice to your Alaska itinerary.

We particularly appreciate that this tour isn’t just about cheap scares or jump-scares. Instead, it offers well-crafted stories rooted in local folklore and real historical oddities. Plus, it’s presented by professional storytellers who know how to keep an audience captivated. However, potential participants should consider that the tour involves walking through rain-soaked streets, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential. This experience tends to suit travelers who love history, legends, and authentic local stories—those who enjoy a good ghost story but prefer a thoughtful, atmospheric approach over pure theatrics.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re curious about the unseen stories of Alaska’s First City, enjoy a bit of spookiness, or have an interest in local folklore—like the Thunderbird legend or tales of ghostly figures on Creek Street—this ghost walk is a perfect fit. It’s especially good for those who want a guided experience that combines storytelling with historical context, rather than just jumping out of dark corners.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling from professional guides makes the experience both spooky and informative.
• The tour covers iconic haunted sites like Creek Street and historic buildings, offering a real sense of Ketchikan’s mysterious past.
• It features local legends such as the Thunderbird, UFO sightings, and spirits tied to the city’s history.
• The walk is accessible and family-friendly, suitable for most travelers able to walk 2 hours comfortably.
• No costumes or actors, but a focus on storytelling and history that appeals to curious, history-minded visitors.
• The price offers great value considering the depth of stories and the scenic, atmospheric streets explored.

A Deep Dive Into Ketchikan’s Haunted Streets

The Ketchikan Ghost Walk is a carefully curated experience that balances genuine storytelling with a dash of the eerie. The two-hour journey begins at the recognizable Rock statue, where guides set the scene with tales of storm omens and supernatural sightings. From there, the route takes you through some of the most storied parts of town, including Creek Street, a historic boardwalk with a reputation for ghostly inhabitants.

Haunted Sites and Stories

Gilmore Hotel and the Haunted Hotel Scene

One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to the Gilmore Hotel, where guests report ghostly encounters such as cigar-smoking spirits and unexplained voices. The guides recount stories of Room 208, notorious for making hotel staff uncomfortable—a classic haunted room that adds a tangible sense of the past’s lingering presence.

Tongass Trading Company and Historic Buildings

As you explore Alaska’s oldest store, you’ll hear about unexplained footsteps and strange noises, which lend a real feeling that the past still clatters around in these historic spaces. For instance, the building is said to be haunted by a spectral woman who chatted with a coworker who was never there—a story that keeps the history alive with a spectral twist.

Creek Street and Its Ghostly Inhabitants

Walking along Creek Street, you’ll encounter tales of Black Mary, Big Dolly, and Beatrice Greene—notorious madams and women who built their lives here and, perhaps, never truly left. Guides tell of Dolly’s House, where visitors say they smell gardenias or see her long-lost lover waiting at the door, sinking into the romantic mystery of these spirits.

UFOs, Legends, and the Thunderbird

Beyond the spirits, the tour touches on UFO sightings and mysterious objects reported by the police, adding a layer of modern mystery. Eagle Park features the legend of the Thunderbird, a sky-spirit said to shake mountains with its wings—an epic myth that still prompts sightings and stories.

Lesser-Known Haunts and Paranormal Encounters

The tour also ventures into less-publicized stories, including strange deaths at Yates Hospital, eerie footage from local banks, and ghostly laughter echoing from former institutions like the Bon Marché building, which was once an Indian boarding school. The Vampire Grave in Bayview Cemetery and reports of spirits haunting the high school auditorium are among the most chilling tales.

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The Broader Context of These Stories

What sets this ghost walk apart is its careful balance of legend and fact. Each story is rooted in local lore, often supported by eyewitness accounts or historical oddities. For example, reincarnation cases in Ketchikan gained scientific attention in the 1960s, adding a fascinating layer to the spiritual tales.

Practical Aspects: Value and Experience

At $35, the tour offers good value considering the depth of stories, the atmospheric streets, and the professional narration. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate storytelling that emphasizes authenticity and local color. The guides are well-versed in history and legend, giving each tale context and nuance. The 2-hour walking format allows for a relaxed pace, enabling you to soak in the sights and stories at leisure.

The experience is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most adults, though pregnant women might find the walking challenging, especially if weather turns rainy—as is common in Ketchikan. Since the tour involves walking through rain-slicked streets, comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing** are a must.

What Makes the Ketchikan Ghost Walk Stand Out?

Unlike many haunted tours that rely heavily on theatrics, this walk leans on storytelling and local lore. It’s an atmospheric stroll through Ketchikan’s most haunted spots, with guides who know how to weave history and legend seamlessly. Visitors regularly comment on the balance of eerie tales and historical insights, which makes the experience both fun and thought-provoking.

On top of that, the tour’s evening timing enhances the mood, as shadows lengthen and the streets take on a more mysterious air. The walk’s length is just right—long enough to feel immersive but short enough to keep your interest high without fatigue.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of local legends, or simply someone curious about the ghostly tales that whisper through Alaska’s streets, this ghost walk is a worthwhile addition to your trip. It’s particularly good for those who prefer story-driven experiences over theatrical tricks, and it’s suitable for most age groups, provided you’re comfortable walking.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a highly interactive, theatrical haunted house experience or have mobility issues, this might not be your best bet. Still, for a relaxed, engaging evening that combines authentic storytelling with atmospheric exploration, it stands out.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While generally family-friendly, the stories can be spooky and are best suited for older children or adults who enjoy ghost stories.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 2 hours, giving enough time for detailed storytelling and exploration without wearing out your welcome.

Is it accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for most visitors.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended since the tour often fills up, especially during peak season.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential—Ketchikan’s streets can be rainy and chilly, especially in the evening.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the listed price covers the guided tour; you’ll need to bring your own snacks or drinks if desired.

Are there any scary actors or costumes?
No costumes or actors are involved. The focus is on storytelling, making it more atmospheric and less theatrical.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To sum it up, the Ketchikan Ghost Walk offers a fascinating blend of history, local myth, and atmospheric storytelling that appeals to travelers eager to explore the haunted corners of Alaska’s First City. It’s a chance to see the town through the lens of its spectral inhabitants, enriching your visit with tales that linger long after the tour ends. Whether you’re a seasoned ghost hunter or just curious about Ketchikan’s mysterious past, this walk provides a memorable, spine-tingling experience rooted in authenticity and local flavor.

You can check availability for your dates here: