Table of Contents
Inside Passage Alaska Map
Introduction
Located in southeastern Alaska, the Inside Passage is a stunning coastal route that stretches over 500 miles and is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. This travel guide aims to provide you with a comprehensive list of the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports in the area.
Top Attractions
Glacier Bay National Park
One of the most popular attractions in the Inside Passage, Glacier Bay National Park is a must-visit for any nature lover. The park is home to massive glaciers, towering mountains, and abundant wildlife.
Tongass National Forest
The Tongass National Forest is the largest national forest in the United States and covers most of southeastern Alaska, including the Inside Passage. The forest is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bears, wolves, and bald eagles.
Mendenhall Glacier
The Mendenhall Glacier is a 13.6-mile-long glacier located just outside of Juneau. Visitors can take a guided tour of the glacier or hike to the top for a stunning view of the surrounding area.
Hidden Gems
Petersburg
Petersburg is a small fishing town located on the northern end of Mitkof Island. The town is known for its vibrant Norwegian culture and has a charming downtown area filled with shops and restaurants.
Elfin Cove
Elfin Cove is a remote fishing village located on Chichagof Island. The village is only accessible by boat or seaplane and offers some of the best fishing in the area.
Food Scene
The Crab Station
The Crab Station in Ketchikan is a must-visit for seafood lovers. The restaurant serves up fresh Dungeness crab, shrimp, and other local seafood.
The Hangar on the Wharf
The Hangar on the Wharf in Juneau is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes, as well as burgers and sandwiches.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Camping
Camping is a great way to save money while exploring the Inside Passage. There are several campgrounds located throughout the area, and many offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Hiking
Hiking is another budget-friendly activity in the area. There are several trails located throughout the Inside Passage, ranging from easy to challenging.
Outdoor Adventures
Kayaking
Kayaking is a popular activity in the Inside Passage, thanks to the area’s calm waters and stunning scenery. Visitors can rent kayaks or take a guided tour.
Fishing
Fishing is another popular activity in the area, with salmon and halibut being the most sought-after catches. Visitors can join a guided fishing tour or rent a boat and try their luck on their own.
Historical Landmarks
Sitka National Historical Park
Sitka National Historical Park is a 113-acre park located in Sitka and is home to several totem poles and a museum dedicated to the Tlingit and Haida cultures.
Alaska Native Heritage Center
The Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage is a museum and cultural center dedicated to the indigenous peoples of Alaska. The center offers a variety of exhibits and demonstrations, as well as cultural performances.
Family-Friendly Activities
Whale Watching
Whale watching is a popular activity in the Inside Passage, and there are several companies that offer family-friendly tours. Visitors can spot humpback whales, orcas, and other marine life.
Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center
The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center in Juneau is a great place for families to learn about glaciers and the surrounding area. The center offers exhibits, ranger-led programs, and a short hike to the glacier.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Chilkoot Trail
The Chilkoot Trail is a historic trail that was used during the Klondike Gold Rush. The trail is 33 miles long and takes hikers through stunning scenery and historic sites.
LeConte Glacier
The LeConte Glacier is a tidewater glacier located near Petersburg. Visitors can take a guided tour of the glacier or kayak to the face of the glacier for a closer look.
Natural Wonders
Tracy Arm Fjord
Tracy Arm Fjord is a stunning fjord located near Juneau. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the glacier and surrounding scenery.
Misty Fjords National Monument
Misty Fjords National Monument is a wilderness area located near Ketchikan. The area is home to several stunning fjords, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Vibrant Nightlife
Gold Rush Saloon
The Gold Rush Saloon in Skagway is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The saloon offers live music, dancing, and a variety of drinks.
Breweries
There are several breweries located throughout the Inside Passage, including the Alaskan Brewing Company in Juneau and the Baranof Island Brewing Company in Sitka.
Local Markets
Sitka Farmers Market
The Sitka Farmers Market is a weekly market that takes place during the summer months. The market features local produce, crafts, and live music.
Haines Farmers Market
The Haines Farmers Market is another popular market in the area. The market features local produce, crafts, and baked goods.
Beaches and Mountains
Sandy Beach
Sandy Beach is a popular beach located in Sitka. The beach offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a great place for a picnic or a swim.
Mount Roberts Tramway
The Mount Roberts Tramway in Juneau takes visitors on a scenic ride to the top of Mount Roberts, where they can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.
Cultural Immersion
Totem Poles
The Inside Passage is home to several totem poles, which are an important part of the indigenous cultures in the area. Visitors can see totem poles in several locations, including Sitka National Historical Park and Ketchikan.
Cultural Tours
There are several companies that offer cultural tours in the Inside Passage. These tours give visitors a chance to learn about the indigenous cultures in the area and see traditional dances and performances.
Art and Music Scene
Sitka Summer Music Festival
The Sitka Summer Music Festival is a three-week-long festival that takes place in June and features a variety of classical music performances.
Ketchikan Arts Council
The Ketchikan Arts Council is a nonprofit organization that promotes the arts in Ketchikan. The council offers a variety of events and workshops throughout the year.
Walking Tours
Historic Skagway Walking Tour
The Historic Skagway Walking Tour takes visitors on a guided tour of Skagway’s historic downtown area. The tour includes several historic buildings and sites.
Juneau Walking Tour
The Juneau Walking Tour takes visitors on a guided tour of Juneau’s downtown area. The tour includes several historic buildings, as well as a stop at the Alaska State Capitol.
Architectural Marvels
St. Michael’s Cathedral
St. Michael’s Cathedral in Sitka is a stunning example of Russian Orthodox architecture. The cathedral was built in 1848 and is a National Historic Landmark.
Red Onion Saloon
The Red Onion Saloon in Skagway is a historic building that was once a brothel during the Klondike Gold Rush. The building has been restored and now serves as a restaurant and bar.
Historical Sites
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park in Skagway is a museum and park dedicated to the Klondike Gold Rush. The park includes several historic buildings and exhibits.
Sitka Pioneer Home
The Sitka Pioneer Home is a historic building that was once a home for elderly residents. The building now serves as