Macaulay Salmon Hatchery

The impressive Douglas Island Pink and Chum (DIPAC) salmon hatchery (2697 Channel Dr., 907/463-4810 or 877/463-2486, www.dipac.net [1], Mon.–Fri. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sat.–Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. May–Sept., by appointment Oct.–Apr., $3 adults, $2 children under 13) is three miles north of Juneau [2].

Here you can learn about salmon spawning and commercial fishing, watch fish moving up one of Alaska [3]’s largest fish ladders, and check out the saltwater aquariums and underwater viewing windows.

The facility includes shops and a visitors center where tours are offered. It’s a fascinating place and well worth the entrance fee. The king, coho, and chum salmon return mid-June–September, and during that time you can try your hand at fishing out front.