Oliver White
Town and City Listings
Ketchikan
Incorporated city and borough seat
The Ketchikan Gateway Borough is a second-class borough located in the southeastern part of the state of Alaska. It was formed on June 2, 1963, by merging the city and borough governments. The borough seat is the incorporated city of Ketchikan.
Other cities and towns in the Ketchikan Gateway Borough include
Cottonwood Cove
Craig
Ketchikan
New Eddystone Rock
Taku
Tlevak Strait
The borough is situated at 55.33°N latitude and 131.65°W longitude, covering an area of approximately 5,250 square miles (13,600 km2). It has a population of around 14,000 people as per the 2020 United States Census.
Ketchikan Gateway Borough is known for its natural beauty, with extensive coastline along the Inside Passage. The borough is surrounded by the Tongass National Forest and features several islands in the Pacific Ocean.
The main industries in the Ketchikan Gateway Borough include fishing, logging, mining, and tourism, which are supported by its rich marine resources and surrounding wilderness areas.
Education in the Ketchikan Gateway Borough is provided through schools operated by the school district of School District of Ketchikan Gateway Borough. Healthcare services are offered at Ketchikan General Hospital and other healthcare facilities.
The borough’s climate is a mild oceanic climate, influenced by its coastal location. The average temperature ranges from 35°F (2°C) in January to 59°F (15°C) in August, with significant precipitation throughout the year.
Located on Revillagigedo Island
The city located on Revillagigedo Island is Ketchikan, which is the borough seat and largest city of the Ketchikan Gateway Borough.
Ketchikan is a city located on an island, surrounded by the waters of the Tongass Narrows, with the larger Revillagigedo Island to the north and Gravina Island to the south.
The population of Ketchikan is approximately 13,379 people (as of the 2020 census), making it a significant urban center in southeastern Alaska.
Ketchikan has a mild oceanic climate, with temperatures ranging from around 26°F (-3°C) in winter to 64°F (18°C) in summer, influenced by its coastal location and proximity to the Pacific Ocean.
The city is known for its scenic beauty, with many attractions such as Tongass National Forest, which surrounds the city, and the George Inlet, a narrow channel that connects Ketchikan Bay to Clarence Cove.
Ketchikan is also home to the Cape Fox Lodge, a hotel located on a hill overlooking the city and surrounding waters, offering stunning views of the area.
The city has a rich cultural heritage, with many Native American influences evident in its architecture, cuisine, and festivals. The Tlingit people have lived in the area for centuries, leaving behind a legacy of art, language, and traditions.
Ketchikan is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors who come to enjoy its scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the city’s historic district, take a boat tour, or visit the Tlingit Indian Village, which showcases traditional Native American homes and artwork.
The city has a strong fishing industry, with many commercial fishermen operating out of its harbor. The Ketchikan Fishing Industry is an important part of the local economy, providing fresh seafood to markets both locally and internationally.
Population (2020): 8,816
Other Municipalities
The Ketchikan Gateway Borough is a borough in the U.S. state of Alaska. It has no incorporated cities or towns, but it contains several communities and Census-designated places (CDPs). Some of these include:
Ketchikan, the most populous city in the borough and its only city, is not an incorporated city itself, but a CDP.
The unincorporated Census-designated places are as follows: Deer Mountain (uninhabited), North Tongass Highway, Saxman, Ketchikan Pulp Campbell, Teegan Creek, Herring Cove and North Tongass Highway.
Other areas of the borough include
Revilla, an unincorporated CDP, and Tongass Village, which is also an unincorporated area but contains a few buildings.
Shee Atik Juaan, which means “Fish Camp” in the Tlingit language, is a small village on Revilla Island and is not included in the official U.S. Census data due to being only accessible by water or air.
Saxman: a small village located to the west of Ketchikan
Saxman is a small village located to the west of Ketchikan City, within the Ketchikan Gateway Borough in the state of Alaska. This picturesque village is situated in a serene and natural setting, surrounded by lush forests and towering mountains.
Geographically, Saxman is nestled on the eastern edge of Revillagigedo Island, which is part of the Alexander Archipelago. The island itself is characterized by rugged terrain, with steep cliffs and deep fjords that plunge into the icy waters of the Pacific Ocean.
The village of Saxman has a rich cultural heritage, shaped by the history of its indigenous people, the Tlingit Nation. The Tlingit have lived in this region for thousands of years, developing a sophisticated culture that is deeply connected to the natural environment. Their traditional way of life was based on hunting and gathering, with an emphasis on fishing and whaling.
In recent times, the village has undergone significant development, driven by tourism and economic growth. Visitors are drawn to Saxman’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The village offers a range of attractions, including museums, art galleries, and traditional dance performances.
The main industries in Saxman include fishing, logging, and small-scale mining. The village has its own school and community center, which provide essential services for residents. Healthcare is available at Ketchikan City’s hospital, which serves the entire borough.
Getting to Saxman requires a combination of land and sea travel. Visitors typically arrive by air at Ketchikan International Airport or by ferry from Prince Rupert in British Columbia, Canada. From there, they can take a short drive to Saxman via Highway 3.
The village is accessible year-round, with snow-covered roads during the winter months. The mild climate of Saxman makes it an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Key features and attractions in Saxman include
- Tlingit Indian Village and Totem Park
- Saxman Native Art Gallery
- Ketchikan Museum
- Potlatch Park
- Native Heritage Center
Accommodation options in Saxman range from budget-friendly guest houses to luxury resorts and vacation rentals. Visitors can choose to stay within the village or opt for a scenic cabin in the surrounding wilderness.
Saxman is a hidden gem, offering an authentic Alaskan experience for visitors who venture beyond the city limits. Its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and welcoming community make it an unforgettable destination for anyone interested in exploring the Last Frontier.
Metlakatla: an incorporated town located to the north and separated from Ketchikan by the Tongass Narrows. Not part of the borough but surrounded by it
The Ketchikan Gateway Borough is a borough located in the southeastern region of the U.S. state of Alaska.
Not part of the borough but surrounded by it are several cities and towns that operate independently from the borough government.
One of these surrounding cities is Saxman, a census-designated place (CDP) with its own distinct culture and history.
Saxman is located just east of Ketchikan, the largest city in the borough, and has a population of around 600 residents as of the 2020 United States Census.
Another surrounding town is Metlakatla, also a CDP with its own separate government and infrastructure.
Metlakatla has a population of around 1,400 residents as of the same census year and is home to the Tlingit Indian Tribe.
The city of Thorne Bay, located on the north side of Revillagigedo Channel, is another independent town surrounded by Ketchikan Gateway Borough.
With a population of around 470 residents, Thorne Bay has its own small-town charm and history, offering scenic views and outdoor recreational opportunities for visitors.
The surrounding towns and cities within the borough provide unique cultural experiences and attractions that complement the borough’s natural beauty.
Tribal Communities
Ketchikan Indian Community
The Ketchikan Indian Community is situated within the Ketchikan Gateway Borough in the state of Alaska. This area encompasses several cities and towns.
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the cities and towns within this community
Cities
Ketchikan: The largest city in Ketchikan Gateway Borough, with a population of approximately 14,000 people. This city is known for its rich Native American heritage, scenic beauty, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Saxman: Located about 16 miles southeast of downtown Ketchikan, this city is home to the Saxman Indian Village, which showcases traditional Tlingit tribal art and culture. The village features a collection of historic totem poles and other Native American artifacts.
Towns
Craig: A small town situated on the northern coast of Revillagigedo Island, known for its picturesque harbor and stunning ocean views. Craig has a population of around 1,100 people and serves as the commercial center for the surrounding area.
Metlakatla: An incorporated city and borough within Ketchikan Gateway Borough, with a population of approximately 1,800 people. This town is located on the western coast of Annette Island and boasts beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
These cities and towns in Ketchikan Indian Community offer a unique blend of Native American culture, stunning natural beauty, and outdoor recreation opportunities that are distinct to Alaska’s Inside Passage region.
Federally recognized tribe
The Ketchikan Gateway Borough is a borough in the state of Alaska. It was established on July 2, 1963.
The area that is now the borough was originally inhabited by the Tlingit tribe. The tribe has a long history and culture in the region, with many descendants still living there today. They are indigenous people, and their rights and interests are recognized under federal law.
In 1867, the Russian Empire sold Alaska to the United States, which then established its own system of governance for the territory. Under this system, a series of treaties were negotiated with local Native American tribes, including the Tlingit. These treaties recognized the Tribal sovereignty and established the boundaries of tribal land.
Today, there are three federally-recognized Tribes in Ketchikan Gateway Borough: the Saxman Indian Village and the Ketchikan Indian Corporation (Tlingit), the Metlakatla Indian Community (Tsimshian), and the Klawock Tribe. These tribes have their own governments, which work with the borough and state governments to manage the land and provide services to their members.
Ketchikan Gateway Borough is home to many Cities and Towns, including
- Ketchikan: a city located on Revillagigedo Island, known for its fishing industry and natural beauty.
- Metlakatla: an incorporated town on Annette Island, home to the Metlakatla Indian Community.
- Saxman Village: an unincorporated community located near Ketchikan, home to the Saxman Indian Village.
- Klawock: a small city located on the west coast of Revillagigedo Island, known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.
- Pelican: a small town located on the east coast of Revillagigedo Island, home to a variety of marine mammals.
These Cities and Towns are all part of Ketchikan Gateway Borough and offer visitors and residents alike a range of amenities and attractions.
Tribal headquarters in Saxman, Alaska
Encompasses 10 villages within the Ketchikan Gateway Borough
The Ketchikan Gateway Borough is located on the island of Revillagigedo Island in southeastern Alaska. It encompasses 10 villages within its administrative boundaries.
The borough covers an area of approximately 4,817 square miles, and has a population density of about 1 person per square mile, making it one of the least densely populated areas in the United States.
Within the Ketchikan Gateway Borough are several cities and towns that serve as hubs for commerce, education, healthcare, and other services. These communities have their own distinct character and offer a range of amenities to residents and visitors alike.
The borough’s largest city is Ketchikan, which has a population of around 8,000 people and serves as the commercial center for the area. Other significant cities in the region include Saxman, Craig, Thorne Bay, Coffman Cove, Hollis, Hydaburg, Hoonah, Pelican, and Rudyerd Bay.
Each city and town has its own local government, which provides essential services such as law enforcement, fire protection, public works, and education. Some of the communities also have their own volunteer-based emergency response teams and community organizations that focus on issues like healthcare, social services, and cultural preservation.
The borough’s rural nature and lack of access to transportation infrastructure pose significant challenges for residents, including limited job opportunities, restricted access to healthcare and education, and vulnerability to natural disasters such as storms and wildfires.
Despite these challenges, the Ketchikan Gateway Borough has a strong sense of community and a rich cultural heritage that reflects its indigenous Tlingit and Haida populations. The region is known for its stunning natural beauty, with rugged coastline, dense forests, and majestic mountains, making it a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.
Efforts are underway to address the borough’s challenges and promote economic development, including investments in renewable energy, infrastructure improvement projects, and initiatives aimed at attracting new businesses and residents. However, much work remains to be done to ensure the long-term sustainability and prosperity of this unique and beautiful region.
Saxman village is not part of the Metlakatla Indian Reservation but is within the community’s jurisdiction
Other Communities
Settlements and Unincorporated Areas
The Ketchikan Gateway Borough is a borough located in the southeastern part of Alaska, United States. It has an area of approximately 4,417 square miles, with a population of around 14,000 people, according to the 2020 census. Within this large geographic region, there are several incorporated cities and towns that provide essential services and governance to residents.
One of the main types of settlements in the Ketchikan Gateway Borough is Incorporated Cities. These are self-governing municipalities with their own elected officials, governments, and laws. The borough has a total of 2 incorporated cities:
- Ketchikan City: Located on Revillagigedo Island, it’s the largest city in the borough and serves as its economic and cultural hub.
- Metlakatla: Although still part of Alaska Native lands, Metlakatla is an incorporated city with a separate government system under the Indian Reorganization Act. It’s also the seat of the Annette Island Reserve, owned by the Tlingit Indian Tribe of Washington and Idaho.
Unincorporated Areas in the Ketchikan Gateway Borough refer to areas that are not part of any incorporated city or town but are still governed by the borough. These communities often have their own local governments, such as community councils or associations, which address specific needs and concerns.
- Afognak Village: Although technically unincorporated, it’s a Native American village with a small population of about 25 residents who live on Afognak Island.
These settlements in the Ketchikan Gateway Borough offer distinct lifestyles and opportunities for its residents. The borough provides essential services to all communities within its jurisdiction while also preserving local autonomy and traditions in each respective area.
In addition to towns and cities, there are other communities like Baranof and Craig which have different services
The Ketchikan Gateway Borough, located in the southeastern part of Alaska, is home to a diverse range of communities beyond its urban centers. Towns and cities, such as Ketchikan, Saxman, and Craig, are well-known for their unique blend of Indigenous cultures, lush wilderness, and bustling commercial districts. However, there exist other types of communities that offer distinct services and experiences to residents and visitors alike.
Baranof is one such community located within the Ketchikan Gateway Borough. While it does not have the same level of infrastructure as some of the larger towns or cities in the region, Baranof provides its residents with access to essential services, including healthcare facilities and schools. Its proximity to the Tongass National Forest makes it an attractive option for those seeking a more remote lifestyle while still maintaining a connection to modern amenities.
Craig, on the other hand, is a borough seat that boasts a more developed infrastructure compared to Baranof. The community offers a range of services, including banking facilities, grocery stores, and healthcare centers. Craig’s location on Revillagigedo Island provides stunning views of the surrounding waters and mountains, making it an ideal destination for those who appreciate the great outdoors.
Both Baranof and Craig serve as examples of how diverse communities can contribute to the richness of the Ketchikan Gateway Borough. By supporting these smaller communities through tourism and economic investment, residents and visitors alike can help foster a sense of community and promote long-term sustainability in the region.
The presence of various types of communities within the Ketchikan Gateway Borough offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for adventure, cultural experiences, or simply a peaceful retreat. As such, it is essential to acknowledge and appreciate these unique contributions to the borough’s identity and diversity.
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