People that travel need to do their homework and find out about places they go. Wrangell was a very quiet, nice starting point to explore native culture, and launch out on side trips. Marlin Benedict , a fishing guide, took us on a wonderful salmon fishing trip on the Stikene River. The scenery was so wild and beautiful as we caught more fish than we ever imagined. Then he took us to view the glaciers. There are other fishing opportunities as well, but I am so glad we chose Marlin. Then another highlight was a trip with Alaska Vistas to Anan Creek to view the bears. Our guide was John, he was so knowledgable and nice. The area was so incredibly beautiful, eagles and bears everywhere. We even got a special treat when Mom showed up with 2 small cubs that scampered up the tree next to us.It was amazing to see how bears will tolerate us, it makes you understand we are the aggressive self centered ones who can"t live with them. I could have sat there for days watching all the beauty in that wild place.
In between these trips, we took advantage of some of the hiking trails in Wrangell. We hiked to Rainbow Falls on a well maintained trail, then continued up to Shoemaker Overlook. The scenery was quite beautiful, but make sure you are in shape, it is all up, then all down mainly on steps.
So I can see if someone gets off a cruise ship to shop or do city style activity, they would be disappointed. Wrangell is a small down home Alaskan town, I found the people to be friendly and enjoyed hearing all their tales of living in Alaska. If you want the fast pace life, no this is not the place for you. If you want to take the time to enjoy beauty and adventure with some really great people, check it out. Take your time.