Tenakee Springs AlaskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Tenakee Springs, Alaska.
1. Tenakee Hot Springs
HISTORIC MINERAL BATH
Tenakee Hot Springs features a public bathhouse with 106-degree sulfur hot mineral springs that have been used for generations. The bathhouse stands as one of the town's most iconic and beloved attractions, offering therapeutic soaks in natural waters. Visitors and locals alike gather here to enjoy the healing properties of the springs while immersed in the quiet charm of this small Alaskan community.
2. Tenakee Springs Market
HISTORIC GENERAL STORE
Tenakee Springs Market, formerly known as Snyder Mercantile, has been operating since its founding in 1899. This historic establishment serves as both a shopping destination and a living piece of Alaskan history. Visitors can browse local goods while appreciating the preserved character of this century-old business.
3. Tenakee Springs Museum
LOCAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The Tenakee Springs Museum, housed in a bright red building next to the bathhouse, showcases the rich history of this unique Alaskan community. The museum features exhibits that tell the story of the town's development, cultural heritage, and connection to the surrounding wilderness. Visitors can explore artifacts and photographs that document the evolution of this remote coastal settlement.
4. Yaakw Kahidi Cultural Center
INDIGENOUS HERITAGE SITE
Yaakw Kahidi Cultural Center stands as a testament to the indigenous heritage of the Tenakee Springs region. The center offers visitors insights into the customs, art, and traditions of the native peoples who have inhabited this area for millennia. Through its exhibits and educational programs, the cultural center preserves and celebrates the enduring legacy of Alaska's first inhabitants.
5. Tenakee Inlet Whale Watching
MARINE WILDLIFE OBSERVATION
Tenakee Inlet is renowned as a hidden gem in the whale watching world where humpback whales frequently pass by the town. Visitors can observe these magnificent creatures bubble feeding while simply walking down the shoreline, offering an accessible wildlife viewing experience. The nutrient-rich waters attract bait fish, which in turn draw whales, creating spectacular viewing opportunities throughout the season.
6. Shamrock Building
HISTORIC ARCHITECTURAL LANDMARK
The Shamrock Building stands as one of Tenakee Springs' notable historic structures, representing the town's architectural heritage. This preserved building offers visitors a glimpse into the construction styles and community planning of Alaska's past. Its continued presence contributes to the authentic character that makes Tenakee Springs a living museum of Alaskan frontier life.
7. Tenakee Inlet Fishing
PREMIER SALMON WATERS
Tenakee Inlet is considered a mecca for fishing in Southeast Alaska, with calm waters that allow anglers to enjoy the experience without discomfort. The twenty-six mile long inlet hosts approximately 750,000 salmon that migrate to spawn in its fourteen rivers, including Coho, chum, pink, and Chinook species. Local guided fishing services help visitors access the best spots for catching these prized fish in both fresh and salt water locations.
8. Vivid Endeavors Boat Tours
MARINE ADVENTURE EXCURSIONS
Vivid Endeavors offers highly-rated boat tours that showcase the stunning marine environment surrounding Tenakee Springs. Their excursions specialize in dolphin and whale watching, giving visitors close encounters with the diverse marine life of Southeast Alaska. The experienced guides provide educational commentary while navigating the scenic waterways of Tenakee Inlet.
9. Saint Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church
RESTORED HISTORIC SANCTUARY
Saint Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church stands as a newly restored historical landmark in Tenakee Springs. The church represents the Russian influence that shaped much of Alaska's early colonial history. Its distinctive architecture and religious significance make it a cultural touchstone for both residents and visitors.
10. Tenakee Hiking Trails
WILDERNESS PATH NETWORK
The hiking trails around Tenakee Springs offer endless exploration opportunities through pristine Alaskan wilderness. These trails include both maintained paths and old logging roads that wind through dense forests and along spectacular coastlines. Hikers can experience the untamed beauty of Southeast Alaska while potentially spotting wildlife in their natural habitat.
11. Alaska Railroad Scenic Route
HISTORIC RAIL JOURNEY
The Alaska Railroad Scenic Route offers travelers a journey through Alaska's history on rails that connect to the wider region. Passengers can enjoy breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, and coastal landscapes while learning about the development of transportation in Alaska. The historic railroad provides a unique perspective on the state's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
12. Kayak Launching Point
SELF-GUIDED WATER EXPLORATION
The kayak launching points around Tenakee Springs serve as gateways to personal exploration of the calm, protected waters of the inlet. Paddlers can navigate along the shoreline, discovering hidden coves and observing coastal wildlife from a unique water-level perspective. The relatively sheltered conditions make this an ideal location for both beginning and experienced kayakers.
13. Tenakee Springs Hunting Areas
WILDERNESS GAME PURSUIT
The hunting areas surrounding Tenakee Springs provide access to traditional subsistence activities that have sustained Alaskan communities for generations. Hunters can pursue game in accordance with state regulations across varied terrain that includes forests, mountains, and coastal regions. The hunting experience connects participants to both the natural environment and the cultural practices that define life in rural Alaska.
14. Sitka National Historical Park
TOTEM POLE COLLECTION
Sitka National Historical Park, located in nearby Sitka, features an impressive collection of Tlingit and Haida totem poles along forest paths. The park commemorates the 1804 Battle of Sitka between Russian forces and the indigenous Tlingit people. Visitors can explore the rich cultural history of Southeast Alaska through interpretive displays, ranger programs, and the historic Russian Bishop's House.
15. Mendenhall Glacier
ACCESSIBLE ICE FIELD
Mendenhall Glacier is a 13-mile-long glacier located in Mendenhall Valley, just outside Juneau and accessible from Tenakee Springs via seaplane or ferry. The glacier features an impressive visitor center with educational exhibits about glacial movement, climate change, and local ecosystems. Visitors can hike various trails around the glacier to view ice caves, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife including bears, eagles, and salmon.