Nestled in the vast Tongass National Forest, Ketchikan is a vibrant town known for its colorful totem poles, lush island setting, and steep streets reminiscent of San Francisco. Home to about 13,500 residents, it buzzes with cruise ships, floatplanes to Misty Fiords, and salmon-laden fishing boats in the summer. While its logging and fishing roots have softened with the rise of tourism, the town's rugged spirit endures. Art enthusiasts will find a thriving arts community and a wide array of Alaskan art. Located at the base of Deer Mountain on Revilla Island, Ketchikan was once a Tlingit fish camp and later a hub for gold, timber, and fishing industries. Known as the "salmon-canning capital of the world" in the 1930s, it still offers some of Southeast's best salmon fishing. Despite its dramatic landscape, the town is walkable, with highlights like the Spruce Mill shops, Creek Street, Totem Heritage Center, Totem Bight State Historical Park, and Saxman Totem Park.