Order Your 2019 Travel Alaska FREE Official Vacation Planner Now, Digital Download Available. Don't Wait Another Minute.
Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/923561
3 8 One option for traveling to Alaska is via the state ferry system from Bellingham, Washington or Prince Rupert, British Columbia. Either way, travelers can see glaciers, wildlife and wilderness as they glide between forested islands on the route known as the "Inside Passage," stopping at unique coastal towns along the way. Fish the pristine salt and fresh waters for all 5 species of salmon, halibut or steelhead. Southern Region e southernmost spot on our map is the town of Metlakatla, on the west coast of Annette Islands Reserve. Metlakatla is part of a federal reservation for the Tsimshian Indians, and is accessible by air or state ferry. If you're planning to stay here longer than 24 hours, you'll need a visitor permit. Next up is Ketchikan, this multi-island community is located in the heart of the Tongass National Forest. It's the southernmost port of call for most Inside Passage cruises, and can be reached by daily jet service. Local museums and attractions highlight the town's heritage. Visitors can explore the history of the area's traditional Alaska Native culture, fishing and timber industries. Activities include camping, boating, ziplining and sport fishing excursions. Visitors will find an array of shops and art galleries downtown and while strolling along the boardwalks of historical Creek Street. In addition to all the natural scenery, Ketchikan is also home to the largest collection of totem poles in the world. From Ketchikan, you can also travel by boat or plane into Misty Fiords National Monument. ese 2.3-million-acres of glacially carved ords are awe-inspiring, sheltering magnificent species of land animals and sea life. Step back in time and experience the abundant wildlife, rugged mountain terrain and uncrowded waters of Prince of Wales Island. Located just 600 miles (965 km) north of Seattle, fly or ferry to the fourth-largest island in the U.S. Explore a network of 2,000 miles (3,219 km) of roads including 200 miles (322 km) of paved Alaska Scenic Byway, or boat around 990 miles (1,593 km) of shoreline and outlying islands. Visitors enjoy kayaking, camping, whale and bird watching, totem parks and villages rich in Alaska Native culture. Ferries provide service from Ketchikan to Hollis, and from there visitors can travel by road to other communities, such as Craig, Klawock, orne Bay, Coffman Cove and Hydaburg. e northern end of the island is known for its limestone caves and grottoes. e most popular cave is El Capitan (check with U.S. Forest Service during the summer months for a tour schedule). Four distinct groups of people shaped the history of Wrangell: Russians, the English, Americans and the Tlingit. While in town, learn the area's history by visiting the newly-restored Tribal House on Chief Shakes Island or by exploring Petroglyph Beach State Historic Park and searching for prehistoric rock carvings. e Wrangell Museum offers interactive displays of Wrangell's colorful history. When prospectors first came to the area, they sought out the "gateway to the Stikine," a river with exciting tours of wildlife, glaciers and hot springs. Visit Anan Bear and Wildlife Observatory for an up-close view of black and brown bears feasting on wild salmon. Petersburg residents celebrate their Norwegian culture with decorative rosemaling (traditional Norwegian painting) on houses and storefronts, and a rousing Little Norway Festival every May. Enjoy an excursion to LeConte Glacier, the southernmost active tidewater glacier in North America. Inside Passage