Settlers Cove State Recreation Site
Discover a serene Alaskan wilderness at the end of the road, offering rainforest hikes, beachcombing, and abundant wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Waters teem with fish
Settlers Cove State Recreation Site
Best Time
Waters teem with fish
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a serene Alaskan wilderness at the end of the road, offering rainforest hikes, beachcombing, and abundant wildlife.
"A beautiful and quiet place, perfect for exploring the wild side of Alaska."
🎒 Pack for Rain
Ketchikan is a rainforest; rain gear is essential year-round!
🐻 Bear Safety First
Always carry bear spray when hiking and be aware of your surroundings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Salmon Run Spectacle
Creek
Witness the creek come alive with salmon during the spawning season – a truly wild Alaskan experience.
Beachcombing Adventures
Beach
Explore the shoreline at low tide for sea stars, marine life, and the thrill of finding treasures.
Lush Forest Trails
Hiking Trails
Hike through mossy landscapes to discover beautiful waterfalls and enjoy the serene rainforest.
Oceanfront Sunsets
Campground
Camp right on the ocean and be mesmerized by breathtaking sunsets over the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Wild
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Pack for Rain
Ketchikan is a rainforest; rain gear is essential year-round!
🐻 Bear Safety First
Always carry bear spray when hiking and be aware of your surroundings.
🌊 Low Tide Exploration
Check tide charts to maximize beachcombing opportunities for marine life.
🏕️ Oceanfront Camping
Book campground sites early for stunning sunsets and direct ocean access.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Pack for Rain
Ketchikan is a rainforest; rain gear is essential year-round!
🐻 Bear Safety First
Always carry bear spray when hiking and be aware of your surroundings.
🌊 Low Tide Exploration
Check tide charts to maximize beachcombing opportunities for marine life.
🏕️ Oceanfront Camping
Book campground sites early for stunning sunsets and direct ocean access.
🚶♀️ Trail Connections
Inquire about trail connections, as construction can sometimes impact loops.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Settlers Cove is lauded as a beautiful, quiet escape at the end of the road, offering a true wilderness feel with opportunities for wildlife viewing and beachcombing. Visitors appreciate the accessible hiking trails, oceanfront camping with stunning sunsets, and the chance to see salmon during the spawning season. Some note the drive is significant and that there are no showers at the campground.
"This site is literally at the end of the road and we spotted a bear on our arrival. It was the first place we visited in Alaska. Fresh off the boat. The weather was gorgeous (it was June) but Ketchikan being in the rain forest can be wet. It is a beautiful and quiet place and I’d love to go back during salmon season as apparently the water you see on the photos is filled with fish during that time."
Magdalena Rawecka
"Settlers Cove is one of our favorite spots on the Ketchikan road system. It’s easily accessible and offers a variety of hiking options. During low tide, you can walk along the beach and spot sea stars and other marine life we also saw Black Bear tracks in the mud. On our visit, we were lucky enough to see whales passing by. The hiking trails are well-marked, easy to navigate, and surrounded by lush plant life, making it a fantastic place to explore."
Anthony J. Bopp
"This is a great place to explore and get both the forest and beach experience. A very nice place for hikers to visit, or just folks who like to stretch their legs out, while enjoy some beautiful scenery.
We went out there with family to see the falls and the walking trail was short enough and manageable for us to make it without issue. Afterwards, we went down to the beach and did some beachcombing and just looking around. Everything we saw was amazing and it was clean and just felt like you were in the wild. Of course, it is not exactly in town. It's way out the road and takes a bit to drive there, but it is time well spent and anyone is sure to enjoy it.
Looking forward to going back in the future."
Aleut Guy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Settlers Cove is located at the end of the road from Ketchikan, requiring a drive. It's a scenic route, but be prepared for a bit of travel time. Many visitors access it via car or RV, as it's a popular spot for camping and day trips.
Yes, cruise ship passengers can access Settlers Cove by renting a car or arranging transportation. It's a bit of a drive from the cruise port, but offers a more secluded experience away from the main tourist hubs like Creek Street. +1
The drive to Settlers Cove is along the Ketchikan road system and is generally considered scenic. It takes you through lush Alaskan landscapes.
Information on specific shuttle services can be limited. Renting a car is often the most reliable way to reach Settlers Cove for independent exploration.
Settlers Cove is located 'way out the road' from Ketchikan, meaning it requires a significant drive. While not in town, the journey is considered time well spent for the scenery and tranquility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a day-use fee for visitors, and a nightly fee for camping. The campground is approximately $15 per night, which is considered a great value for its location.
It is highly recommended to book camping in advance, especially during peak season, as sites can fill up quickly due to its popularity.
Settlers Cove is generally accessible year-round for day use, though specific facilities like restrooms may have seasonal hours. Camping is available.
No special permits are typically required for day use or camping at Settlers Cove State Recreation Site. Standard fees apply.
Yes, cruise ship passengers can visit Settlers Cove. Renting a car is the most common method, allowing for a flexible exploration of the site. +1
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Settlers Cove offers a variety of hiking trails, including the Lunch Creek Falls Loop and the Lunch Creek Trail. These trails wind through lush forests and lead to beautiful waterfalls.
Visitors have reported seeing black bears, bald eagles, sea otters, seals, and various diving ducks. During salmon season, the creek is filled with fish.
Yes, Settlers Cove is great for families. The walking trails are manageable, and the beach offers opportunities for exploration and beachcombing.
The site features clean restrooms, covered picnic tables, fire pits with grills, and a campground. There are no showers available at the campground.
Yes, the beach area at Settlers Cove is a nice spot to launch paddleboards or kayaks, especially during calm conditions.
📸 📸 Photography
The beach at low tide, the waterfalls along the hiking trails, and the oceanfront campsites with sunset views offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
With frequent sightings of eagles, bears, and marine life, Settlers Cove is a prime location for wildlife photography. Bring a telephoto lens!
Misty fjords and rainforests create diffused, soft light, especially on overcast days. Sunsets over the ocean can be spectacular.
The historic Settlers cabin, the unique beach formations at low tide, and the cascading waterfalls are popular subjects for photographers.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens for wildlife, a wide-angle lens for landscapes, and a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures of waterfalls would be ideal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the covered picnic tables. The opportunity to spot wildlife like eagles or even bears (from a safe distance!) can be a highlight for kids. Remember to bring rain gear for everyone, as Ketchikan's weather can be unpredictable.
🏕️ Budget Travelers & Campers
Day-use visitors can also enjoy the scenic beauty and hiking trails without a hefty price tag, making it an affordable way to experience Alaska's natural splendor. Packing your own food and drinks will further minimize expenses.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Bring your binoculars and camera to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife. Remember to be prepared for varying weather conditions and always practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the site.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Settlers Cove
These trails are not just about the destination; the journey itself is a feast for the senses. Expect to be surrounded by vibrant green mosses, towering trees, and the sounds of nature. The trails offer a fantastic opportunity to stretch your legs and truly feel like you're in the wild, away from the hustle and bustle of town.
Remember to check for any ongoing construction or trail closures before your hike, as these can sometimes affect accessibility.
Wildlife Encounters at Settlers Cove
Beyond the salmon, the skies often feature majestic bald eagles soaring overhead, and the waters may reveal playful sea otters and sleek seals.
These encounters are a significant part of the Settlers Cove experience, reminding visitors of the raw, untamed beauty of Alaska. Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife and never feed them.
Camping and Coastal Charm
While the campground provides a serene escape, it's important to note that restrooms are available, but there are no showers.
Being at the 'end of the road' contributes to the quiet and peaceful ambiance of the campground, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and reconnecting with nature.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit