Ketchikan: Misty Fjords National Monument Floatplane Tour

If you’re looking for a way to see the wild, rugged beauty of Alaska without hiking or camping for days, a floatplane tour over Misty Fjords might just be your ideal adventure. We’ve reviewed this experience based on multiple travelers’ insights, and it’s clear that soaring over this remote wilderness is a highlight for many visitors to Ketchikan. With a rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 17 reviews, this tour offers a rare bird’s-eye view of towering fjords, waterfalls, and wildlife, all in just a couple of hours.

What really stands out is the expert commentary from the pilot — offering fascinating insights into the landscape, geology, and local ecosystems. Plus, the stunning vistas of dense forests, granite cliffs, and cascading waterfalls make this an unforgettable flight. On the downside, some travelers found that the included musical soundtrack felt a bit distracting, and you should consider weight restrictions if you’re above a certain size. This tour is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone eager to see Alaska from a perspective few get to experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy wildlife, breathtaking scenery, and the thrill of flying in a small plane, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s a particularly good fit for those who appreciate detailed narration and want to learn about the area while taking in spectacular views. If you prefer larger, more commercial flights or are sensitive to noise and music, this may not be the perfect choice. Also, keep in mind weight restrictions — if you weigh over 250 lbs, you’ll need to pay an additional surcharge.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Aerial Views: See Misty Fjords, waterfalls, and volcanic remnants from the sky.
• Expert Pilot Commentary: Learn about the landscape, geology, and local animals.
• Wildlife Sightings: Keep an eye out for eagles, bears, wolves, and deer.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 6 passengers for a more intimate view.
• Value for Money: At $389 per person, it offers a unique perspective of Alaska’s wilderness.
• Considerations: Weight restrictions and potential issues with audio quality during the flight.

Overview of the Experience

Flying over Misty Fjords offers a perspective that ground-based tours simply can’t match. From the moment you meet your pilot in downtown Ketchikan, you can expect a smooth, well-organized experience. The meeting point is conveniently located near the Visitor’s Bureau, next to a famous bronze statue and rain gauge, which makes for a memorable starting point.

Once aboard your 6-passenger floatplane, the adventure begins. The plane is small enough to feel personal, yet comfortable, with windows that guarantee a view. The flight lasts about an hour, but it feels much longer because of the captivating scenery and the engaging commentary. The pilot will point out notable landmarks, such as New Eddystone Rock, a volcanic remnant that dominates Rudyard Bay, and describe the landscape’s volcanic origins.

The Scenic Route and Highlights

As you ascend over the Tongass Narrows, your vantage point is a bird’s-eye picture of the lush, sprawling Tongass National Forest. The dense canopy of hemlock and spruces stretches as far as the eye can see, a testament to the vast wilderness that covers much of Southeast Alaska.

The route takes you over Revillagigedo Island, offering sweeping views of Ketchikan below, and then out towards the Misty Fjords. The namesake fog and mist give the landscape an almost mystical quality, especially as waterfalls cascade down sheer granite cliffs, carving narrow passages that seem carved by nature’s own hand. The fjords and waterfalls create a picture of raw, untouched wilderness — perfect for photography.

Wildlife and Geology

While the flight is primarily about the scenery, many travelers report spotting wildlife from above. Eagles are common, perched along treetops or soaring nearby, while ground animals like bears, wolves, and deer are more likely to be seen from the air if you’re lucky. The commentary introduces you to the area’s ecosystems, enhancing the visual experience.

The volcanic history is another fascinating aspect. Rudyard Bay and New Eddystone Rock are remnants of early volcanic activity, offering a tangible link to the area’s geologic past. One reviewer noted, “Flying over Rudyard Bay and seeing New Eddystone Rock was a highlight — I felt like I was seeing a piece of history from above.”

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The End of the Flight and Return

After circling the fjords and taking in the incredible scenery, the plane returns to Ketchikan, offering one last look at the coastline and island scenery. Many reviewers mention how smooth the takeoff and landing are, with one emphasizing that the experience is “well-organized and on time.”

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the ticket are private van transportation from Ketchikan to the floatplane base, the hour-long flight, and live pilot commentary. Passengers are guaranteed a window seat, which is crucial for photography and fully enjoying the views. Food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly before or after your flight.

Practical Details and Tips

• Reservation and Cancellation: You can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility for your travel plans. Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.
• Group Size: The experience is limited to just six participants, making it intimate and allowing for more personalized attention from the pilot.
• Pricing and Value: At $389 per person, this isn’t the cheapest way to see Alaska, but the small group, expert commentary, and unique aerial perspective add a lot of value.
• Weight Restrictions: Guests over 250 lbs (113 kg) will need to pay an extra surcharge of $168, so be prepared for that if applicable.
• Children: Kids under 2 are considered lap children and don’t need a ticket, but those 2 and older require their own seat and ticket.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many visitors praise the knowledgeable guides and pilots, with comments like “Scott was so informative and very knowledgeable about the area,” and appreciating the amazing scenery. Some noted minor issues with the audio soundtrack, but overall reviews remain highly positive, emphasizing the stunning views and good value.

One traveler from the U.S. said, “Everything was organized and on time, and the scenery was amazing,” while a visitor from the Netherlands recommended it as a “really nice experience.” The common theme in reviews is that this tour offers a unique, breathtaking perspective of Alaska’s wilderness, enhanced by knowledgeable narration and a personalized setting.

The Sum Up

This floatplane tour over Misty Fjords is a fantastic choice for those wanting to see Southeast Alaska’s wilderness from a perspective few get to enjoy. It combines stunning scenery, wildlife spotting, and expert commentary in a small-group setting that feels exclusive but accessible. The scenery alone makes it worthwhile, but the added touches — like the pilot’s insights and the experience of flying in a small plane — elevate it to a memorable adventure.

While it’s not the cheapest excursion, the value for the experience is evident, especially considering the limited group size and the quality of the views. If you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or just someone eager to see Alaska’s landscapes from above, this tour is well worth considering.

This experience is best suited for those who appreciate detailed storytelling, are comfortable in small aircraft, and want an authentic, scenic adventure that highlights the rugged beauty of Misty Fjords. Be prepared for a bit of wind and noise, but expect to come away with stunning photos and stories to tell for years.

FAQs

How long is the flight?
The flight lasts approximately 1 hour, offering ample time to enjoy the scenery and listen to the pilot’s commentary.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You meet your guide next to the Visitor’s Bureau in downtown Ketchikan, by a large bronze statue and rain gauge. The van will be holding a sign with your tour name.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so you might want to eat before or after your flight.

Are children allowed?
Children under 2 are considered lap children and do not need a ticket, but children 2 and older must have their own ticket.

What are the weight restrictions?
Guests over 250 lbs (113 kg) need to pay an extra surcharge of $168. The tour isn’t suitable for those over 300 lbs (136 kg).

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

In essence, this Misty Fjords floatplane tour offers a rare and breathtaking glimpse into Alaska’s wild heart. With expert guides, unmatched scenery, and a small-group atmosphere, it promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby