Explore majestic Alaska

Ketchikan proudly—and deservedly—holds the title of the “Salmon Capital of the World.” This picturesque Alaskan town, nestled in the heart of the Tongass National Forest, is renowned for its abundant salmon population and fishing culture. The significance of salmon to Ketchikan and the broader Alaskan community cannot be overstated, as it plays a crucial role in traditional Indigenous ways of life, regional cuisine and the local ecosystem.

Salmon has been a staple in Native Alaskan diets for millennia. Today, the fish features prominently in both traditional dishes and modern culinary creations. Whether it is  grilled, baked, pan-seared or poached, salmon is celebrated for its rich flavor and nutritional value. The annual Ketchikan Salmon Derby is a testament to the community's deep connection to the fish, drawing anglers from near and far to compete and celebrate the town’s fishing heritage.

Beyond its culinary importance, salmon is integral to the Alaskan ecosystem. These fish are a keystone species, meaning their presence significantly impacts the environment. Salmon provide essential nutrients to both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, supporting a diverse range of wildlife, including bears, eagles and other fish species.

Preservation efforts are vital to ensuring the sustainability of salmon populations in Ketchikan and throughout Alaska. Organizations and government agencies work to protect salmon habitats, regulate fishing practices and monitor population health. Initiatives such as habitat restoration, hatchery programs and sustainable fishing regulations aim to balance the needs of the fishing industry with the long-term health of salmon populations. Alaska’s commitment to celebrating and protecting salmon will allow the region’s ecosystem, and its stunning array of wildlife, to continue to thrive.

The Tlingit people, indigenous to the southeastern region of Alaska and parts of British Columbia and the Yukon, have a rich and multifaceted culture that has thrived for thousands of years. Known as the “People of the Tides,” the Tlingit have a deep connection to the coastal environment, which has shaped their way of life, traditions and social structures.

The early Tlingits were skilled traders and navigators, establishing extensive trade networks with neighboring tribes, and later, European and Russian settlers. Their economy was primarily based on fishing, particularly salmon, which remains a cornerstone of their diet and culture today.

Art and spirituality are deeply intertwined in Tlingit communities. Totem poles, intricately carved and painted, serve as historical records and symbols of clan lineage. Ketchikan today boasts the state’s largest collection of totem poles, which can be viewed at Saxman Totem Park and Totem Bight State Park. These poles, along with other creations like canoes, feast dishes and weavings, are imbued with spiritual significance and reflect the Tlingit's reverence for nature, as well as their ingenuity.

The Tlingit have a rich oratory tradition, with stories and songs passed down through generations to preserve their history and identity. Today, the Tlingit continue to celebrate and preserve their heritage while adapting to modern life. Efforts to revitalize the Tlingit language and cultural practices are ongoing, with community programs, festivals and educational initiatives playing a crucial role. Despite challenges posed by historical suppression and modern influences, Tlingit culture remains resilient and alive—a testament to the enduring spirit of these proud people.

"Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve is the largest national park in Alaska. Located in south-central Alaska and covering more than 13 million acres, it is the largest national park in the US. It encompasses the Wrangell Mountains and a significant portion of the Saint Elias Mountains.

The Saint Elias Mountains’ highest point is Mount Logan, the second-tallest mountain in North America. Officially designated as protected land in 1980 by President Jimmy Carter, the park has been shaped by the forces of volcanism and glaciation, resulting in a landscape of towering peaks, expansive glaciers and rugged terrain.

The park is home to diverse wildlife, including caribou, moose, wolves, bald eagles, foxes and bears. Aquatic life is also abundant, with harbor seals, sea lions, whales (orcas and humpbacks) and salmon populating the waters.

Some other interesting facts about Wrangell-St. Elias National Park include:

• Each July, Wrangell hosts Alaska Bearfest, a five-day festival featuring music, arts and excursions to observe black and brown bears in their natural habitat.
• Spectacular glaciers within the park include the Malaspina Glacier, the largest piedmont glacier in North America, and the Hubbard Glacier, the longest tidewater glacier in Alaska.
• The abandoned mine buildings and mills of Kennecott, now a National Historic Landmark that can be toured by visitors, offer a glimpse into the region's rich mining history.
• Visitors can also explore the Chief Shakes Historic Site, which features totem poles and a traditional Tlingit tribal house.

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is one of Alaska’s greatest treasures, offering unparalleled opportunities for adventure and wildlife observation in a stunning natural setting. Whether hiking, fishing or simply taking in the breathtaking scenery, this park is a magnificent destination for nature enthusiasts.