Creek Street in Ketchikan, Alaska, is rightfully celebrated as one of the most captivating and popular things to do in Ketchikan. Annually, it welcomes countless visitors, all eager to explore this historic Creek Street. Perched gracefully on wooden pilings above Ketchikan Creek, this antique boardwalk is a vibrant hub. Here, you’ll find restaurants, unique curio shops, the renowned Dolly’s House Museum, charming private residences, and some of the best salmon viewing areas Ketchikan has to offer. No visit is complete without experiencing the intriguing Married Man’s Trail and the fascinating Salmon Ladder, both integral parts of the Creek Street experience.
The unique construction of Creek Street is a testament to Ketchikan’s challenging terrain. Built directly over the water, it was a practical solution to the daunting task of excavating the rocky hillsides that hug Ketchikan Creek. This over-the-water building style is a defining characteristic of Ketchikan, evident throughout a significant portion of the town’s architecture.
A picturesque view of Creek Street in Ketchikan Alaska, showcasing its boardwalk and historic buildings
Image: Creek Street in Ketchikan Alaska, a testament to history and charm.
The allure of quaint, historical buildings, the inviting boardwalk, and the sturdy wooden pilings are a magnet for visitors. They come to capture the perfect photo and indulge in Ketchikan’s best shopping experiences.
A captivating perspective looking down Creek Street in Ketchikan Alaska, highlighting the bustling boardwalk and unique shops
Image: A vibrant scene looking down Creek Street in Ketchikan Alaska, alive with activity.
A serene view of Ketchikan Creek at Creek Street in Ketchikan Alaska, showing the natural beauty alongside the historic boardwalk
Image: Ketchikan Creek at Creek Street in Ketchikan Alaska, where nature meets history.
For many, including locals, Creek Street stands out as a favorite spot to shop, dine, and witness the incredible spectacle of salmon navigating their upstream journey. The street also provides endless opportunities for people-watching, adding to its lively atmosphere.
A mesmerizing sight of salmon swimming in Ketchikan Creek in Ketchikan, Alaska, showcasing the abundance of wildlife
Image: Salmon teeming in Ketchikan Creek in Ketchikan, Alaska, a wildlife spectacle.
Creek Street’s Colorful Past: From Red Lights to Prohibition Tales
The history of Creek Street is rich and vibrant, often summarized by the intriguing mix of fishermen, bootleggers, and prostitutes. Famously known as Ketchikan’s former red-light district, Creek Street reached its peak in the mid-1920s, boasting over 20 brothels. In fact, prostitution once reigned as Ketchikan’s leading industry, with ‘working women’ catering to men seeking companionship and illicit liquor.
During the Prohibition era, Creek Street became the clandestine heart of Ketchikan’s underground drinking scene. Bootleggers skillfully smuggled Canadian whiskey to supply both the brothels and hidden saloons. Creek Street’s over-water construction played a crucial role in these illicit activities. Bootleggers would navigate rowboats up Ketchikan Creek at high tide, delivering contraband under the cover of darkness directly to hidden ‘trap doors’ beneath many Creek Street establishments.
Ketchikan Creek has always been a vital salmon spawning stream, lending itself to a famous Creek Street saying:
“It’s where more men – than fish – went upstream to spawn!”
Exploring Married Man’s Trail and the Salmon Ladder
A walk along Creek Street isn’t complete without venturing onto Married Man’s Trail. This unique pathway, a combination of staircase and wooden boardwalk, extends from Creek Street to Park Avenue. Contrary to its romantic-sounding name, Married Man’s Trail served a less conventional purpose. Originally a muddy path, it allowed men to discreetly visit the brothels of Creek Street, avoiding public acknowledgment at the main entrances.
Married Man's Trail in Ketchikan, a historic pathway with stories to tell
Image: Married Man’s Trail in Ketchikan, a path steeped in local lore.
At the end of Married Man’s Trail, the Salmon Ladder awaits. Here, witness the determined salmon leaping up the cascading waterfall, continuing their arduous journey upstream to spawn. It’s a truly remarkable sight and a prime location for capturing photographs of jumping salmon.
The Ketchikan Salmon Ladder, a natural spectacle of leaping salmon
Image: The Salmon Ladder in Ketchikan, a place to witness nature’s persistence.
Stedman Bridge: The Gateway to Creek Street Ketchikan, AK
Creek Street is bordered on one side by the iconic Stedman Bridge. This antique red trestle bridge offers more than just a picturesque backdrop. It’s a local hotspot where you’re likely to see fishermen casting lines into the waters below, hoping to catch salmon. On warmer days, you might even spot adventurous kids climbing the bridge to jump into the creek—a testament to Ketchikan’s occasional warm spells!
If you’re inclined to fish during your visit, fishing gear rentals are readily available along Creek Street. Remember to obtain a fishing license, which can conveniently be purchased from the same rental vendors.
Consider a stop at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center on your way to Stedman Bridge and Creek Street. Located en route, it’s an excellent resource for understanding local regulations and enriching your Ketchikan experience. Enjoy your exploration!
Stedman Bridge in Ketchikan Alaska, an iconic red bridge alongside Creek Street
Image: Ketchikan’s Stedman Bridge by Creek Street, a landmark of the area.
Creek Street stands as one of Ketchikan’s premier attractions, an absolute must-visit during your time in town. The charming, historic buildings lining the creek are undeniably beautiful and photogenic. Creek Street Ketchikan Alaska provides a unique blend of history, nature, and local culture that’s truly unforgettable.
