Description
Ketchikan is well-known for its flightseeing tours to Misty Fjords National Monument, and this is the classic float plane option that is one of our top-choices for things to do in Ketchikan. An area that is best accessed by air, Misty Fjords is a geological paradise encompassing 2.3 million acres of glacially carved cliffs and pristine, preserved wilderness. Enjoy it all from your window seat for an unforgettable plane ride that is as adventurous as it is scenic.
With a convenient pick-up location within walking distance of the cruise ships, a quick transfer brings you over to the plane base where your pilot and float plane are awaiting your arrival. A short video orientation equips you with the info you need, then head down to the docks to load up and get settled in - everyone gets a window seat! As the pilot cranks up the ignition and begins lining up, the excitement of a water take-off definitely starts to kick in.
Within minutes, you're soaring over Ketchikan and the surrounding area and getting a grasp of the terrain and orientation of this landscape. Settle into the sights with narration provided via headset, as information regarding the history, geology and ecology of the area complements the scenery below. Before too long, the characteristic cliffs marking the entrance to Misty Fjords come into view, and the pilot will navigate over alpine lakes, deep fjords, past cascading waterfalls and next to unique 3,000 foot cliffs carved out by thousands of years of glacial movement.
Get a first-hand experience of this remote wilderness that John Muir once described as "hopelessly, over-abundantly beautiful for description." Once back at the base, you'll receive an Alaskan bush plane certificate - a perfect token to remember this amazing area and experience.
*With respect for full transparency, we want to let our guests know that there have been tragic fatal accidents on the Misty Fjords flight in years past. While small aircraft is the main mode of transportation in Alaska, there will always be risks. Our operating partner, Taquan Air, takes every precaution to make the most informed decision about flight conditions for that day and will cancel the tour if weather poses any threat. Their pilots are extensively trained, monitor weather conditions closely, and fly with at least 4 miles of visibility. The company has also voluntarily adopted safety practices beyond those required by federal standards. *
What's Included
Frequently Asked Questions
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Know Before You Book
Quick Facts
Itinerary • 1h 45min • 4 activities
Your tour begins with a convenient pick-up from Berth 2 in downtown Ketchikan for transfer to the waterfront floatplane base.
Once you reach the base, you'll go through a brief safety orientation & flight preparation with your guides before heading down to the docks to load up in your DeHavilland Beaver or Otter, each holding 6-10 guests.
Your guides will take to the skies to explore the breathtaking Misty Fjords National Monument.
At the conclusion of your flight, you will hop back in the vans for return transportation to Berth 2, where you can head to your cruise ship or explore the historic downtown area.