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Tenakee Seaplane Base (TKE) is a small public-use seaplane facility serving the remote community of Tenakee Springs on Chichagof Island in southeastern Alaska's Inside Passage. The town has no road connection to the outside world, making floatplane and boat access the primary means of reaching the community. Tenakee Springs is notable for its natural hot springs, which have drawn visitors for over a century.
💡 Local Tip
Visit the historic hot springs bathhouse near the waterfront—locals and visitors alike follow the longstanding tradition of showering with soap before entering the shared pool to keep the natural mineral waters clean for everyone.
🚖 Getting There
Floatplane passengers typically land directly in Tenakee Harbor and step ashore at the public float within walking distance of most of the town. There are no rental cars or public transit options, so arranging accommodation pickup or walking are the primary ways to reach lodging. Travelers continuing by boat can often arrange transfers with the Alaska State Ferry or private water taxi services.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the only way to reach Tenakee Springs?
A: The community is accessible solely by seaplane or boat, as it has no road connection to other towns on Chichagof Island or the mainland.
Q: Are there scheduled airline flights to TKE?
A: Scheduled service is limited; flights are typically operated by small regional carriers using float-equipped aircraft, often on an on-demand or charter basis.
Q: What is Tenakee Springs best known for?
A: The town is famous for its natural saltwater hot springs bathhouse, a community gathering spot and popular attraction for visitors traveling the Inside Passage.
Q: Can the seaplane base be used year-round?
A: Operations are generally seasonal, limited by ice conditions in winter when the harbor freezes and seaplane access becomes impractical.
AI-generated content · Generated Jun 28, 2026 · MiniMax-M3