Ketchikan, Alaska ghost walk
Ghost Walk · Ketchikan, Alaska

Ketchikan Ghost Walk

A 2-hour guided ghost walk through Alaska's First City — uncovering indigenous legends, haunted Creek Street, the cursed creatures of Thomas Bay, and Bigfoot encounters in the Tongass.

Duration
2 Hours
Min Age
13+
Departs
Daily at 7pm

Ketchikan, Alaska is known as the "First City" for its prominent position as the gateway to the Alaskan frontier. But beneath its charming, rugged exterior lies a foundation of supernatural tales and chilling phenomena. It's such a haunted place that even though it is technically out-of-bounds, its strange events were still featured on the TV series The Alaska Triangle.

The bustling port town of Ketchikan has always buzzed with stories of extraordinary encounters. The quiet wilderness around Thomas Bay, north of Ketchikan, was known to gold seekers in the early 1900s as a place rich with promise. In 1900, prospector Harry Colp was drawn into a terrifying reality recounted by his shaken companions, who had returned to camp visibly shaken, haunted by something they'd encountered in the forest.

One evening, while exploring the area in search of riches, Colp's fellow prospectors stumbled upon figures that sent their blood running cold. These beings stood upright yet moved with an unnatural gait, neither fully human nor animal, their bodies covered in coarse hair. Fearful whispers named these entities "cursed creatures," unlike anything the miners had ever seen. What were these frightful brutes? Were these the same shape-shifting beasts whose haunting presence still terrifies locals?

Expect to hear surprising stories about a variety of local paranormal happenings. Known for Totem Poles, Misty Fiords National Monument, and historic Creek Street, Ketchikan reveals its darker side when night falls or the fog rolls in. Supernatural tales of this storied Alaskan town include firsthand accounts from local residents, curious legends passed down through generations, and modern eyewitness reports of ghosts, cryptids, UFOs, and inexplicable occurrences.

What Our Customers Say

What To Expect

Guide
Expert Paranormal Guide
Departs
Daily at 7pm
Difficulty
Easy / Moderate
Price
$34.21 / adult

The Ketchikan Haunted History Tour is meticulously crafted from authentic sources—including historical documents, personal interviews, and thorough archival research. Our guides are passionate about Alaska's rich paranormal and cultural heritage, providing not just spooky thrills, but meaningful context that brings history to life. We proudly engage with Ketchikan's vibrant community, offering respectful, historically accurate, and genuinely intriguing storytelling experiences.

Tour Highlights

  • Explore the haunted locations that shaped Ketchikan's past.
  • Contemplate firsthand accounts of ghosts, cryptids, and UFOs in Alaska's first city.
  • Unravel the maritime mysteries of the historic waterfront.
  • Walk in the footsteps of the legends that continue to captivate locals and visitors alike.
  • Separate fact from fiction.

Itinerary

Meet your guide at The Rock210 Front St.

  1. 1

    The Rock Monument

    Meet Ketchikan's legendary pioneers. These figures also symbolize Alaskan groups with the most fascinating folklore—miners, bush pilots, loggers, fisherman, frontierswomen, and native peoples.

  2. 2

    Historic Gilmore Hotel

    Ponder the eerie encounters at this 1927 hotel, including levitating guests, shadowy figures, and ghostly appearances of the original owner Pat Gilmore himself. Would you dare book Room 208 for an unforgettable stay?

  3. 3

    Former Yates Hospital

    Recall the inexplicable deaths and sorrowful tales that permeate the aging walls of Ketchikan's first hospital. What hidden history does this site conceal?

  4. 4

    Chief Kyan Totem Pole

    Marvel at the fascinating details of Tlingit reincarnation cases documented by Dr. Ian Stevenson. Might you encounter ancestral spirits walking among us tonight?

  5. 5

    Chief Johnson Totem Pole

    Consider the enchanting tale Fog Woman. Is the Ketchikan fog merely weather or something more?

  6. 6

    Creek Street

    Meet the feisty spirits of Ketchikan's infamous red-light district. Big Dolly, Black Mary, and countless others linger.

Important Info

  • Duration: Approximately 1.5–2 hours. Please allow a full two hours, as our guides often share additional intriguing details based on guest engagement.
  • Weather: Tours run rain or shine. Dress for Ketchikan's famously wet weather, and wear comfortable walking shoes.
  • Accessibility: The tour route is wheelchair-friendly. Please inform us of any special needs to ensure comfort and enjoyment.
  • Reservations: Tours have limited capacity, and all sales are final. We gladly reschedule in case of emergencies.
  • Pets: Service animals welcome. For liability reasons, please leave other pets at home.

Meeting Point

Meet your guide at Berth 2, near The Rock monument on the waterfront.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ketchikan Ghost Walk?+
The Ketchikan Ghost Walk is a two-hour guided walking tour that explores the haunted history and paranormal legends of Ketchikan, Alaska. Guests hear spine-tingling stories of ghosts, cryptids, and UFOs while visiting historic landmarks like Creek Street, the Gilmore Hotel, and the Chief Kyan Totem Pole.
Where does the tour begin?+
Ketchikan ghost tours are more about storytelling and history than frightening jump scares. While some tales are eerie, most tours balance spooky legends with fun and cultural insights, making them enjoyable for a wide range of visitors.
How long does the tour last?+
The stories told on Ketchikan ghost tours are based on local legends, historical events, and reported sightings. While their truth may vary, they reflect the town’s heritage and add to its mysterious charm.
Is the Ketchikan Ghost Walk suitable for children?+
On this tour, we focus on building exteriors and outdoor spaces. Businesses and public places are open for you to visit during regular business hours. Otherwise we respect the privacy of individuals and organizations and expect that our guests do the same.
What should I wear or bring?+
Ketchikan is known for its wet climate, so visitors should dress for rain and cool weather. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as the tour covers a mix of paved paths and wooden boardwalks. Umbrellas and light jackets are also advised.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?+
Yes. The route is wheelchair-friendly, and guides can accommodate guests with mobility needs. It’s recommended to notify the organizers in advance to ensure a smooth experience.
What makes this ghost tour different from others?+
Tours often include Creek Street, the historic waterfront, Dolly’s House Museum, and other notable landmarks tied to Ketchikan’s colorful past. Guides choose stops based on their ghost stories, legends, or reported paranormal activity.
What haunted locations will we visit?+
Guests visit several historic and reportedly haunted sites, including the Gilmore Hotel, Creek Street, the Former Yates Hospital, and the Chief Kyan and Chief Johnson Totem Poles. Each stop reveals unique tales of ghosts, ancestral spirits, and unexplained events.
Does the tour run in bad weather?+
Service animals are welcome. However, for liability issues, please leave your furry friends at home if you don’t require their assistance.
Can I bring my pet?+
It’s best to book in advance, especially during the busy summer cruise season. Tours can fill quickly, and reservations help secure your preferred time. Many providers allow online booking.
How can I book tickets?+
Tickets can be booked directly through American Ghost Walks online. Availability is limited, so early reservations are recommended. All sales are final, but the team is happy to reschedule in emergencies.
What other ghost tours are available in Alaska?+
Most tours operate during the main tourist season, from spring through early fall, when cruise ships visit the port. Some providers may offer limited off-season tours, but availability is reduced in winter.

Do You Have The Courage To Join?

Explore haunted locations and hear chilling tales. Face your fears and uncover dark secrets — if you dare.

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Ketchikan Ghost Tours | Haunted First City of Alaska