Exploring 50 Unique Towns and Villages of Southeast Alaska's Inside Passage

Southeast Alaska's Inside Passage is a remarkable stretch of coastline dotted with small towns and villages, each offering a unique glimpse into the region's rich culture, history, and natural beauty. This area is known for its stunning fjords, abundant wildlife, and vibrant indigenous communities. Traveling through these communities reveals a tapestry of life shaped by the sea, forests, and mountains. Below, we explore 50 towns and villages, grouped by their proximity to one another, highlighting what makes each place special.

Northern Inside Passage Communities

Ketchikan and Surrounding Villages

• Ketchikan: Known as the "Salmon Capital of the World," Ketchikan is the largest city in the region. It offers rich Native American heritage, including impressive totem poles and the Tongass National Forest nearby.

• Saxman: Just a few miles from Ketchikan, Saxman is home to a large collection of totem poles and a vibrant Tlingit community.

• Metlakatla: Located on Annette Island, Metlakatla is the only Indian reservation in Alaska, with a strong Tsimshian culture and traditions.

  
  

Wrangell and Petersburg Cluster

• Wrangell: This historic town features old Russian Orthodox churches and a thriving fishing industry.

• Petersburg: Known as "Little Norway," Petersburg has a strong Scandinavian heritage and hosts the annual Little Norway Festival.

• Kupreanof: A small island community near Petersburg, Kupreanof offers quiet charm and access to wilderness trails.

  
  

Central Inside Passage Communities

Juneau and Nearby Villages

• Juneau: Alaska’s capital city, Juneau is accessible only by boat or plane. It offers a mix of urban amenities and wild landscapes, including the Mendenhall Glacier.

• Douglas: Located just across the Gastineau Channel from Juneau, Douglas has a historic downtown and beautiful waterfront parks.

• Haines: A bit further north, Haines is known for its outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and eagle watching.

  
  

Skagway and Dyea Area

• Skagway: Famous for its Gold Rush history, Skagway features preserved wooden sidewalks and museums.

• Dyea: Once a bustling Gold Rush town, Dyea is now a ghost town with hiking trails leading to the Chilkoot Pass.

  
  

Southern Inside Passage Communities

Sitka and Surrounding Villages

• Sitka: This town blends Russian history with Tlingit culture. Sitka’s Sitka National Historical Park and St. Michael’s Cathedral are must-see landmarks.

• Pelican: A small fishing village near Sitka, Pelican is known for its seafood and friendly community.

• Elfin Cove: Accessible mainly by boat or floatplane, Elfin Cove offers stunning views and excellent fishing.

  
  

Kake and Angoon Vicinity

• Kake: A Tlingit village with a strong cultural presence, Kake is known for its totem poles and traditional celebrations.

• Angoon: Located on Admiralty Island, Angoon is surrounded by wilderness and is a gateway to the island’s bear population.

  
  

Outer Islands and Remote Villages

Prince of Wales Island Communities

• Craig: The largest town on Prince of Wales Island, Craig is a hub for fishing and logging.

• Hydaburg: A Haida village with a rich cultural heritage, Hydaburg hosts totem pole carving and traditional dances.

• Thorne Bay: Known for its outdoor recreation, Thorne Bay offers hiking, fishing, and boating.

  
  

Other Remote Villages

• Pelican: A small fishing village near Sitka, Pelican is known for its seafood and friendly community.

• Tenakee Springs: A remote village on Chichagof Island, Tenakee Springs is famous for its hot springs and artistic community.

• Angoon: Located on Admiralty Island, Angoon is surrounded by wilderness and is a gateway to the island’s bear population.

  
  

Fishing village surrounded by forested hills in Southeast Alaska

Highlights of Selected Communities

• Hoonah: The largest Tlingit village in Alaska, Hoonah is known for its cultural festivals and as a gateway to Glacier Bay National Park.

• Skagway: Offers a glimpse into the Klondike Gold Rush with preserved historic buildings and scenic train rides.

• Petersburg: Combines Norwegian heritage with a strong fishing economy, making it a lively and welcoming town.

• Sitka: A unique blend of Russian and Native American history, with beautiful architecture and natural surroundings.

• Ketchikan: A bustling hub with rich indigenous culture and access to the Tongass National Forest.

  
  

Traveling Between Communities

Many of these towns and villages are connected by ferry routes operated by the Alaska Marine Highway System. This network allows travelers to explore the Inside Passage by water, enjoying scenic views and wildlife along the way. Small planes and floatplanes also provide access to more remote locations. When planning a trip, grouping nearby communities like Ketchikan and Saxman, or Juneau and Douglas, can make travel easier and more rewarding.

What to Expect in Southeast Alaska’s Inside Passage

Visitors will find a mix of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and small-town charm. From hiking and fishing to exploring museums and totem parks, each community offers something different. Wildlife sightings, including bald eagles, bears, and whales, are common. The region’s weather is mild but wet, so packing rain gear is essential.