Choosing the best time to visit Ketchikan, Alaska starts with understanding how dramatically the weather, daylight, and seasonal activities change throughout the year. Ketchikan sits in the heart of the Tongass National Forest, and its climate is shaped by the rainforest and the surrounding Inside Passage. Whether you’re researching Ketchikan Alaska weather by month or trying to pinpoint which season offers the best balance of activities and conditions, this guide breaks everything down clearly and honestly.
Below is a quick look at Ketchikan’s seasons, followed by a detailed month-by-month overview of the visitor season.
Ketchikan experiences mild temperatures year-round, but the rhythm of the town shifts with each season. Understanding these broad patterns helps travelers choose the best time to visit Ketchikan based on their goals.
Spring brings longer daylight hours, mild temperatures in the 40s, and early signs of wildlife activity. The rainforest begins to brighten, migrating birds return, and eagles are highly active. While Ketchikan weather in spring still includes regular rainfall, this is a calm and scenic time for travelers who enjoy quieter experiences before the main season begins.
Summer offers the most consistent conditions for visitors. Ketchikan Alaska summer weather features highs in the upper 50s to low 60s, 15–17+ hours of daylight, and full access to tours, fishing charters, kayaking, hiking, and flightseeing. This is the most popular time to visit Ketchikan thanks to long days and reliable activity availability.
Early fall brings bright colors in the rainforest, strong coho salmon fishing, and cooler temperatures in the 50s. September remains part of the core visitor season, while October and November mark the start of heavier rainfall and shorter daylight. Many travelers who prefer shoulder-season travel still consider September one of the best times to visit Ketchikan Alaska for fewer crowds.
Ketchikan in winter is quiet, mild, and very rainy. With temperatures in the 30s and around seven hours of daylight in December, this is a peaceful, non-touristy season. Most tours pause until spring, and the town operates at a slower, more local pace. Visitors exploring Ketchikan winter conditions should expect rain, occasional snow, and reduced activity availability.
Rain is a reality during any season in Ketchikan, but don’t let the rain stop you from exploring the area. Check out our Rainy Day Guide for activities and tips to enjoy a rainy day in Ketchikan.
May marks the start of the visitor season and is often considered an underappreciated option as one of the best times to visit Ketchikan before summer crowds arrive.
Weather: mid-50s, long daylight, moderate rainfall
Activities:
Great for travelers wanting mild weather, long days, and an early-season feel.
June brings some of the best overall conditions.
Weather: upper 50s, nearly 18 hours of daylight
Activities:
June is a top choice for fishing enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers who want maximum daylight.
July is typically the warmest month in Ketchikan.
Weather: low 60s, long daylight
Activities:
Ideal for families and travelers who want the most reliable summer experience.
August showcases some of the most vibrant scenery of the year.
Weather: low 60s, increasing rainfall, 14–15 hours of daylight
Activities:
Perfect for travelers interested in fishing, local culture, and lush landscapes.
September is the start of fall but still a strong contender for the best time of year to visit Ketchikan for anglers and photographers.
Weather: mid-50s, shorter days, higher rainfall
Activities:
A great shoulder-season option with a quieter feel than mid-summer.
If your trip is flexible, here’s the quickest breakdown:
No matter when you choose to visit, The Landing Hotel offers one of Ketchikan’s most convenient locations. The property sits directly across from the Alaska Marine Highway and Inter-Island Ferry terminals and two blocks from the airport ferry, with two on-site restaurants and a courtesy shuttle for easy arrivals and departures.
It’s a comfortable and practical home base for exploring Ketchikan in any season. Whether you’re planning a summer adventure or visiting during the quieter shoulder months, you’ll have a welcoming place to return to at the end of each day.
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