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Home » Petersburg

Petersburg

Exploring Petersburg Alaska

August 9, 2018 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment


   A Quaint Little Fishing Village

The Little Norway of Petersburg Alaska

Petersburg may be a small, quaint, fishing village, but in this small village settled by Norwegians, is a bundle of big adventure. Here in this isolated village, you will see the built-in work ethic of the Scandinavian people.  Norwegians built it to resemble Norway, to bring a piece of home to their new Alaskan life. It is a thriving fishing village that is still successful. Not much has changed over the years. In Petersburg, we see what was, what is, and what will be.

Fishing is the main economic resource of the area, but it did not begin with the immigrants from Norway. but rather the Tlingit have been living in the region of Mitkof Island for hundreds of years. Most likely the first experience of the European immigrants when they arrived, in the latter 1800’s, were dealing with the Tlingit Indians. For hundreds of years it was thought that they only had summer fishing camps in the area, but recent archaeological evidence would suggest otherwise. Over the years, the Tlingit haven’t lived much in Petersburg due to an early hostility to all things native. But now, if you walk the streets of Petersburg, you will see a blended culture, but by far the leading culture is Norwegian.

Petersburg received it’s name from Peter Buschmann, one of the Norwegian immigrants. He built the first sawmill, which turned out to be a very successful endeavor and the first cannery. These endeavors grew mightily over the years and finally grew into a small fishing community located at the Northern most end of Mitkof Island, latter known as Petersburg.

Petersburg is located quite close to the LeConte Glacier. Over the years, this has brought a double blessing on this small fishing community.  The location of easy ice, the year around, has helped the community grow into the fishing port that it is today. With the ice, came the ability to ship fish south to the mainland, making the community quite prosperous. Even today, this community continues to make it’s living from the sea for the most part. In addition to it’s fishing economy, Petersburg, Leconte Glacier, and the art of the Tlingit natives, has been discovered by the tourists who come on the cruise ships each summer.

                                                 Petersburg Fishing Port

This port is the home to the many fishing boats that go out daily. The Bushmann’s Cannery became quite successful and was latter bought by Pacific American Fisheries, a larger company. They owned and ran the cannery until in the 1960s when fishing began to slow down. Then they closed the cannery for the first time since it was built. The community pooled their monies and bought the Petersburg Cannery, which is successful to this day. In the late 70’s the name was changed to Icicle Seafoods. Icicle Seafoods is quite a large company in Alaska, and very successful. The cannery changed hands yet again in 2017, but still thrives in the community. This community revolves around the fishing industry.

                                              Seals Playing On The Buoy

As you leave the Continental United States and then continue through Canadian waters, you are in the open waters of the Inside Passage of Alaska. Sometimes you will see the wilderness of the United States and other times it will be Canada you are looking at. You will even see small hints of yesterday, when Russia was in control. The wilderness is pristine and amazing. You might see bears fishing, moose grazing, or seals at play. When you dock at small seaside villages, you can elect to pan for gold, watch for whales in season,  seek out the elders for amazing stories, or immerse yourself in the culture and stories of the Tlingit Indians. The Tlingit have spent generations in this amazing land. They are masters at fishing and hunting, and make their lives connected to the very land and sea that also feeds them. You will see fiords that are barely visible through the morning midst, forests and wilderness so lush and green, and the ice from the glaciers gleaming in the sun. This strange land of the Midnight Sun reaches out and embraces you, calling you by name. And this is just the beginning as you travel the Inside Passage through the wilderness to the last frontier.

                                          The Beautiful Wrangell Narrows

The Wrangell Narrows, in times past, were one of the most dangerous 22 miles on the whole trip up the inside passage. There are miles where the air does not move and often as not, the fog lingers deep and wicked over the area. Now a days there are instruments that take over in time of need, but that was not always the case. This is an area that has made many captains have grey hair before their time. Now, with the help of modern navigation equipment, the trip from the Island of Mitkof and the Island of Kupreanof to Petersburg can be made safely. It is with a spirit of awe, that this spectacular winding and scenic waterway is crossed.

                                     Coming Into The Port Of Petersburg

Petersburg, Alaska is a beautiful port that is sheltered from the extreme storms out on the Narrows by it’s natural geography. It is home to one of the best fishing fleets, the world has to offer. This is a fishing community that makes it’s living from the sea. They recognize the sea in all they do, as the sea is the heartbeat of the community. If you come on the cruise ships or sail your own, everything you need is at the port. Petersburg actually has three modern harbors that are a short walk from downtown. This is perhaps the nicest port in all of Southeast Alaska, and for sure it is the friendliest port of call in Alaska.

                   Preparing To Dock In The Petersburg, Alaska Harbor

Petersburg, being a shallow port, is not used by the mega cruise ships. The smaller boats, however, call this port home. Cruise ships with less than 250 passengers are regular customers of the port. This actually works out for the best, as it allows the smaller groups of tourists that come, to enjoy a quiet and special one on  one type of experience. There is no large invasion of tourists, but only those who come to enjoy this friendly community that sits in the shadow of the Patterson Mountain Peaks.

Some from the larger cruise ships elect to take the ferry across the Narrows to visit this pleasant fishing community. If you enjoy nature, hiking, walking, and biking, there is plenty of opportunity for these experiences. Their are Tlingit craftsman and storytellers wanting to share the stories of this Norwegian fishing village with those who desire to listen.  If you are adventurous, and comfortable without being entertained, you will enjoy the freedom of exploring this tiny island.


                                     Alaska Marine Highway Ferry

The 3 hour trip on the ferry one of the adventure of alaska marine highway ferry from Wrangell to Petersburg is breathtaking. You will spend three hours crossing this spectacular Wrangell Narrows with it’s many unique markers for navigation. Arriving at Petersburg, you will find a small fishing village that lives to the beat of the sea. Surrounded by a pristine wilderness, this is the perfect adventure for those who desire a more natural approach to exploration. Here on this remote island, you will find a  hidden beauty that is sought out only by a few. Welcome to the shallow Port of Petersburg!

An exciting adventure near Petersburg is a visit to LeConte Bay and the near by ice fields from LeConte Glacier. There are many tours, some by air and others by boat. Both are exciting and have their own advantages. If you have time to do both, they are completely different. What a beautiful view you will have of Devil’s Thumb, LeConte Bay and the immense ice fields from the air. If you elect to view the grandeur of the bay and the icebergs by boat, you will get a whole different view of the Coast Mountain Range the surrounds the LeConte Glacier. As you will be closer at times to the shore, you will see the wildlife and this extremely large glacier up close. As you cross the narrow fjord, you will get an amazing view of the glacier that you will never forget. If time and money allow, it is well worth doing both a tour by air and one by boat. They are two totally different worlds of adventure.

                  Getting Crab Pots ready for Dungeness Crab Season

It is always a fun experience watching as the fisherman get their crab pots ready during crab season. There is also a fish processing plant in the center of town called Coastal Cold Storage that has a small seafood-restaurant. Hear you will find some of the best and freshest seafood in town.They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Their Dungeness Crab is some of the best in the world. They will also mail any of their fresh fish home for you. There is nothing fancy about this restaurant, just some of the best seafood that Alaska has to offer.

                            Fresh Alaskan King Crab And Salmon Feast

While traveling the Inside Passage, or enjoying dinner in port, you will want to try the suburb Alaskan King Crab and Salmon with a Seafood Feast. Every restaurant in the town serves some form of a Seafood Feast. If you have never had fresh Alaskan king Crab, you will be in for a surprise. Even the Salmon is amazing when it comes fresh from the sea. You will find simple places like the Coastal Cold Storage that serve excellent food in a very relaxed atmosphere to Inga’s Gallery that is a roadside cafe with many seafood specialties. There are also two vegetarian friendly restaurants.

                  Snow-capped Patterson Peaks And Mountain Glaciers

As you look across the Wrangle Narrows you will encounter spectacular snow-capped Patterson Peaks. Surrounding the peaks are some of the beautiful glaciers of Alaska. Here you will discover that Patterson Glacier changes almost daily, so one day you will see more of the peaks and then they will be hidden the next time. This is a breathtaking area that has many climbing opportunities, hiking trails with camping facilities, and up close view of Patterson Glacier. During summer, you can enjoy the beautiful Patterson river. No matter where you decide to explore, there is plenty of adventure in the Tongass National Forest.

         Leaving Petersburg For The Return Trip Across The Narrows

Awe, those beautiful and unpredictable Wrangle Narrows. When living on land , when the days are gray and rainy, it gets old fast. A deep sorrow can come over you. With no place to go, you soon become fore-long and despondent. But the constant rainy days of the Wrangle Narrows matters not when on a ship. You are always moving, and changing your location. The mountain is ever changing and the sky is in a constantly in transition. Explosive weather and amazing and changeable skies make any day worth living. This can soon become a sailors paradise. There is nothing you can not do with a good wind, especially a good tail wind.

Then there are places where there is no air moving and soon a deep marine fog sets in. Here the air is heavy and thick, and you can see nothing but the white fog. In years past, these waters became difficult and treacherous quickly. In today’s world, there are instruments that can carry on, no matter how thick the fog. Now, two ships pass, where minutes ago they were on a collusion course. These instruments have opened up the Wrangle Narrows to people who would not travel them before. In this short three hour trip, you will see some of the most beautiful water on earth, with a touch of adventure that will raise your adrenaline to a whole new level.

                     A Brisk Evening On The Scenic Wrangell Narrows

As you continue across the Wrangle Narrows, look up! The Patterson Peaks are tall and stately with their tips always covered in snow and ice. See the glaciers, as they sparkle on a clear night. Another adventure, a day of exploration comes to a close.

If you are ready for an adventure, then Petersburg is the place to spend some time. Back a bag, and grab your passport, just in case, and take a cruise up the Inside Passage, but don’t forget, to plan a side trip to Petersburg, Alaska’s Little Norway.

If you would like to research more about Alaska, and find even more photo please visit our Alaska photography website.

Alaska.digital

Petersburg Alaska

The Little Norway of Petersburg Alaska

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Filed Under: Alaska, North America, travel the world, Travel Tips, USA, World Travel Tagged With: Alaska, Alaska Coast Range, Alaska Cruises, Alaska King Crab, Alaska Marine Highway Ferry, Alaskan Salmon, Bushmann's Cannery, Coastal Cold Storage, Crab pots, Dungeness Crab, Icicle Seafoods, Inside Passage of Alaska, Island of Kupreanof, LeConte Glacier, Little Norway, Mitkof Island, Norwegian immigrants, Pacific American Fisheries, Patterson Glacier, Patterson Mountain Peaks, Patterson River, Peter Buschmann, Petersburg, Petersburg Cannery, Southeast Alaska, Tlingit Tribe, Tongass National forest, Wrangel, Wrangell Narrows

Exploring The Inside Passage

October 18, 2016 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

north-to-alaska

                       North To Alaska

Traveling the inside passage is ominous, and it all begins in Bellingham, Washington. We arrive in the this small scenic town just before our journey is to start. While in this fun getaway, we decide to do a little fishing and enjoy the magnificent scenery. In Bellingham, we find a culture filled with amazing experiences with many things to do in the great outdoors.  Not only is it the gateway to the Inside Passage and the great State of Alaska, but it is a recreational jewel in it’s own right.

fishing

     Fishing for sweet Dungeness Crab

As your vessel is being prepared, it is the perfect time to discover your host town of Bellingham, Washington. As you wander the docks, be sure to try your skill at bringing in the best and sweetest Dungeness Crab in the world. The fishing is fun! The day is amazing! The Crab is delicious!

Bellingham, Washington is more than the gateway to the Inside Passage. This quaint fishing town is a fun getaway filled with delightful shops, nature trails, and magnificent scenery. Bellingham has a splendid culture of outdoor recreation with quality lodging, outstanding restaurants, and a multitude of things to do. Why not come a day ahead? Spend the night and day before your departure in one of the most splendid beach towns in Washington.

                             On our Way

As we begin our fantastic journey through the Inside Passage, we also leave Washington behind and we enter the Coastal Waterways. A few hours takes us into British Columbia, Canada and the deep blue Salish Sea. The Salish Sea is a coastal maze of waterways that begins in the northwestern part of the State of Washington and goes as far North as the southern end of the Southwestern portion of Canada.  Nestled among it’s waterways are several major bodies of water. You will pass through the northern part of Puget Sound, and to the west is the Straight of Juan de Fuca. As you travel north you will see the Strait of Georgia. For miles and miles you will see some of the bluest water, magnificent mountains, and amazing scenery.

feeling-safe

           Feeling Safe On The Salish Sea

The spectacular Salish Sea is the coastal home to several Salish Tribes living in both Washington, USA and British Columbia, Canada. The calm waterways of the Salish Sea are important trade routes for the Coast Salish. They also remain a major source of food and other resources. This waterway is home to several indigenous peoples including the Coast Salish, Northern Wakashan, Kwakwaka’wakw, and the Southern Wakashan.

If you are observant as you travel, it is possible to see any of the 253 fish species that have been observed within the Salish Sea. When traveling closer to shore, it is possible to see larger animals on the shoreline near any of the little fishing villages as you enter their ports.

johnstone-straight

                       Johnstone Straight

As you continue your adventure northward in the Inside Passage you most likely will spend a pleasant evening or day on the Johnstone straight in British Columbia, Canada. Beautiful Johnstone Straight is a 68 mile long channel that follows the northeast coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia. During the summer months it is home to many giant Orca Whales. Whale watching is a major activity while traveling through this section of the waterway.

ketchakan

             Approaching Ketchikan

As you approach the fishing village of Ketchikan, you will marvel at the backdrop of the spectacular snow capped mountains. Ketchikan is the first town that you will see as you enter the Alaska section of the waterway.

Ketchikan is home to the Tlingit Nation. Throughout the town you will see many Native American totem poles on display. Look up and you will be privileged to see nearby Misty Fiords National Monument. Misty Fiords is a glacier-carved wilderness and National Monument featuring beautiful snow capped mountains, crystal clear waterfalls and magnificent salmon that call nearby streams home. Ketchikan is home to many species of wildlife including black bears, wolves, and magnificent bald eagles.

Depending on the length of your stay, there are many tours of the surrounding area, including bike tours, boat tours, and helicopter tours. However much time you are able to spend in this First City will be rewarded with spectacular outdoor adventure.

ketchakan-2

                           The First City

Ketchikan is the first city as you travel north on the Inside Passage in Alaska. It is a delightful fishing village waiting to share it’s heritage and splendor with you. No matter how long or short your layover in Ketchikan might be, it has many jewels waiting to be shared.

the-landing

                            The Landing

Often Ketchikan only affords a short layover. So where do you go with a short layover when you are  really hungry in Ketchikan? The Landing Restaurant is the place to go for fast service and excellent food. They have an enormous  selection of both dine in and dine out specialties. Salmon Chowder, Crab omelets, and local Alaskan beer are house delicacies.

leaving-ketchikan

           Leaving Pictureque Ketchikan

Leaving pictureque First City you continue on  a northern journey into the Last Frontier. Alaska, the Land of the Midnight Sun beckons.  Sit back and enjoy viewing tidewater glaciers, and ancient snow capped mountains. The glaciers sparkle in the sun, as they welcome you to this amazing northern wonderland. Enjoy sea lions, seals,  and possibly even Ocra whales. Look up to see puffins, and majestic eagles in the sky. This is a land like no other and no two days will ever be the same.

relax

          Relaxing On The Inside Passage

Sit back and relax as you travel through the beautiful Inside Passage in Alaska. Here in the Land Of The Midnight Sun, the summer days are long and nights pass quickly. Rest and enjoy the scenery, as you get ready for the next stop. Adventure is around every coroner.

coming-into-wrangle

                Nearing Wrangell Island

The calm waters of the Inside Passage near Wrangel Island in Alaska welcomes you as you pass by the island.Wrangel Island is in the midst of the Arctic Ocean nestled between the Chukchi Sea and the East Siberian Sea. The breezes are gentle and these protected waters are calm as you cruise past the island. Sit back, relax, and absorb the beauty!

wrangel

                     Wrangell, Alaska

Spectacular natural beauty and wildlife surrounds the fishing village of Wrangell. The majestic mountains, numerous  islands,and amazing rainforest provide adventure at every coroner. Experience it all in Wrangell, where you can explore glaciers, view wildlife, and participate in outdoor activities and fun.

Wrangell is an historic town with an amazing wealth of living history and culture. This is the only town in Alaska to have been under the rule of four countries. Adventure is waiting in Wrangell.

dog

White Alaskan Malamute Keeping Watch

While enjoying the beautiful garnet crystal laced sidewalks of Wrangel, take note of the many majestic White Alaskan Malamutes. You will see them throughout the State of Alaska, these spectacular animals of the far north, are on a mission. You will see many of these magnificent white Malamutes keeping watch. These are only one of the many amazing animals you will see while cruising through the Inside Passage.

wrangle-islands

           Glaciers,Islands, And Bays

As you are leaving Wrangle, look out at all the majestic glaciers, mountain peaks, numerous islands and bays. Watch the waters for those special moments where you will see nature in their natural habitat. As you cruise near the islands, perhaps you will see black bears fishing, or seals at play. As you cruise by these tall mountains, enjoy the blue tinted glaciers that sparkle in the sun. This is the Land Of The Midnight Sun, and adventure is at every coroner, on every island, and in every town.

petersburg

                             Little Norway

Petersburg, Alaska’s Little Norway, is a quaint fishing village that still makes its living from the sea. Alaska’s Little Norway was first built up by Norwegian fishermen over 100 years ago. The town was named for a Norwegian immigrant, Peter Buschmann, who was one of the first homesteaders in the area and founder of the cannery and saw mill. He also built the first dock around 1900 sometime.   The cannery has operated continuously since its completion. Petersburg is one of Alaska’s most important fishing communities. Much of Alaska’s cannery production is done in Petersburg.

Enjoy one of the most breathtaking wilderness areas in Alaska. Petersburg is surrounded by nature. Do you enjoy hiking? You will find many of Alaska’s trails is in the wilderness area surrounding Petersburg. There are many flight tours that will delight you as you fly over beautiful glaciers and wilderness areas of pure beauty. There are many charter boats for whale watching during the yearly migration. Whether you enjoy birding, sports fishing, or sightseeing, you will find adventure in little Norway.  Whether your interest is hiking our many beautiful trails, flightseeing over the glaciers, chartering a boat for whale watching or a glacier trip, birding, sports fishing or sightseeing, Petersburg has it!

juneau

                          Juneau,Alaska

Juneau, Alaska is surrounded by beautiful glaciers, outstanding seafood, and spectacular history. This historical town echos the days of the gold rush. History is alive and well in Juneau. In Juneau, you will discover one of the countries remotest capitals, reachable only by boat and seaplane. This rare historical town sits at the base of Mt. Roberts, a 3,819 foot mountain with suburb hiking trails, beautiful wildflowers, and amazing views of Gastineau channel.

Juneau has a remarkable tram which climbs the mountain with visitors to the 1,800 foot level. Here you will not only find trails, wildflowers, and views, but one of the most amazing raptor centers. Juneau Raptor Center is dedicated to the many local birds and magnificent raptors that call Southeast Alaska home.

Juneau is a major cruise ship stop as you travel the Inside Passage. Whether you are in port a few hours or a couple of days, there is plenty of excitement in Juneau.

whittier

                          Whittier, Alaska

Each summer, many cruise ships and the Alaskan Ferry bring visitors and Alaskan residents alike to Whittier’s harbor on the west side of Prince William Sound. Those who depart the ferry, must leave Whittier and drive through a one-lane tunnel to Anchorage.  This trip is the end of a beautiful voyage up the Inside Passage. But it is not the end, as it is only the beginning of amazing adventure. Whittier is the door to Alaska. It is now time to explore the great interior of this far northern state.

Whittier is a popular summer destination of cruise ships,  charter boats, and commercial fishing vessels of all sizes. In winter, though, it is extremely  isolated and often gets over 250 inches of snow. Most of the towns 200 residents live under one roof in a 14 story former Army barracks. Here you find a health clinic, police station , and most needed services. This is a unique town that you will only find in the Land of the Midnight Sun!

                Adventure Is Waiting

What are you waiting for? Alaska has untouched areas waiting to be explored. The scenery is unbelievable, and adventure is unlimited. Today is an excellent day to discover the Inside Passage and all the quaint small towns that dot the panhandle of Alaska.

This is also an authorized post on seemit under @exploretraveler at: https://steemit.com/treanding/@exploretraveler

 

 

 

Filed Under: Alaska, North America, Travel Tips, USA, Washington Tagged With: Alaska, Bellingham, Inside Passage, Johnstone Straight, Ketchikan, Petersburg, Salish Sea, The Landing at Ketchican, Whitier, Wrangel, Wrangel Island

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