Art, Culture & Learning in Ketchikan
10 Activities
Rainforest Sanctuary, Totem Park & Eagles
The Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary is a 40-acre private preserve of temperate rainforest bordering the Tongass National Forest. Take a guided nature walk exploring the wildlife and ecology of the preserve. Visit a historic sawmill, explore a totem park, and view a featured raptor at the Alaska Raptor Center Ketchikan exhibit. Here’s how your rainforest exploration will surprise and delight you. You’ll start out with a scenic eight-mile coastal drive to rustic Herring Cove and the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary. The sanctuary is a temperate rainforest, nestled into the Tongass National Forest. When you arrive, a naturalist guide will be on hand to take you on a 0.75 mile guided rainforest exploration along an improved trail amongst stands of hemlock, spruce and cedar trees. The forest floor is covered with mosses, wild flowers and a variety of berries. Your guide will lead you to a protected open estuary where you follow Herring Creek along an elevated wooden boardwalk overlooking grassy wetlands. During the seasonal spawning season, bears and seals feed on salmon in Herring Creek. Bald eagles and other birds wait for scraps in the estuary. Sitka black tail deer, mink and marten also frequent the area. Weather, tides, and seasonal ecosystem changes result in varying levels and type of wildlife activity. Everything here is alive with color and cultural history. After your trail walk your opportunity to learn about the natural history, wildlife and cultural traditions in the region continues. You’ll be guided through the historic Herring Bay Lumber Company sawmill, seeing saws and machinery that powered this mill. Keep your camera ready as you see a bald eagle at the Alaska Raptor Center exhibit. Explore the first Tsimshian totem pole park in the country with its impressive 40-foot totem and 13 poles carved by the same artist. Before your return to town visit the General Store and pick up a souvenir of your uniquely Alaskan experience.
Lighthouse Totems & Eagles Excursion
Join our Alaskan captain and their crew at our dock in Ward Cove – which was once home to North America’s largest operating pulp mill and a working salmon cannery – to board either the Lighthouse Endeavor or Totem Princess. Once aboard, you’ll get to settle into the inside heated main cabin or a seat on the outside observation deck, as you leave the dock for your cruise. Sip a hot chocolate or freshly-brewed coffee and keep your eye out for plentiful American bald eagle sightings. Your captain will navigate the vessel along our developed shoreline while our crew helps you spot the many eagle’s nests along our route. You’ll arrive in front of Totem Bight State Park, home to an Alaskan native clan house and 14 towering Tlingit and Haida hand-carved cedar totem poles, where you will learn about Ketchikan’s vibrant Alaska Native culture as well as the history of the park. We’ll provide you with beautiful, panoramic views of the entire park from the water, and an opportunity to get your photo taken with this stunning site. About halfway through the trip, you’ll leave the developed shoreline to head out to Guard Island Lighthouse, perched on its own island near the opening to Clarence Strait. (This fascinating landmark was established in 1904 and is still in operation today!) While here, take a minute to breathe in the fresh sea air and keep your eye out for the possibility of some of our favorite marine mammals – seals, sea lions, and, in May and September, sometimes even humpback and orca whales! You also may get a chance to see any number of seabirds, such as great blue heron, pigeon guillemots, or gulls. On your way back to Ward Cove, your captain will bring your tour vessel along the neighboring island of Gravina, showcasing beautiful views of the old growth Tongass National Forest, our world’s largest temperate rainforest, and give you the opportunity to possibly spot some land-based wildlife, such as Sitka Blacktail deer or – if you’re really lucky! – a black bear. Throughout the tour you’ll also get the chance to learn about the unique lifestyle of living on a remote Alaskan island directly from the locals who make this place our home! Highlights: *Guaranteed American bald eagle sightings *Possible sightings of harbor seal, moon jellyfish, pigeon guillemots, blue heron, deer, humpback and orca whales, or other wildlife *Panoramic views of Totem Bight State Park, home to an Alaskan Native clan house and a collection of 14 towering Tlingit, Haida & Tsimshian hand-carved cedar totem poles *Voyage to Guard Island Lighthouse to photograph the first lighthouse to be built in Alaska, completed in 1904 & still in operation today *Beautiful scenery embodied in the Tongass National Forest, the world's largest temperate rainforest, and the seascape of the Tongass Narrows
Alaska Ocean Wilderness Expedition
Go on an adventure as you explore the deep mysterious waters of island studded sea passages in search of wildlife aboard a rugged Zodiac expedition craft. Your experienced captain and expert naturalist will use their considerable local knowledge of the area to unlock the secrets of this biologically rich ecosystem. You will feel ocean air on your face and taste the salt of sea spray as you skim across the waves in search of Alaska's unique wildlife. You will indulge your curiosity as you navigate narrow channels, next to rocky coast lines, emerald forested islands, and black sandy beaches. You will become an explorer, a mariner, an adventurer!
Cultural Immersion Tour
Specializing in VIP Small Group Tours of 10 or fewer people. Our tour begins with pickup at Eagle Park in Ketchikan by cruise ship dock. Guests are asked to arrive a few minutes early for check-in and to ensure a timely departure. We'll make our way north to the Totem Bight Historical Park, located on the former site of a traditional Native campground known as Mud Bight Village. See the Clan House and Totem Poles and hear stories of a legendary chief's strength, along with other totem stories and meanings. Next, we'll ride in the van, venturing out to the Rainforest Creek Trail. Here visitors will be immersed in and will learn about the unique ecosystem of the Tongass. From how to safely remove the thorns and bark from the devil's club, to identifying many other berries edibles, and medicinal plants of the Tongass, we provide an insightful and fascinating perspective like none other. At the end of the tour, we'll provide snacks including smoked salmon and crackers by a campfire. It is our desire to enrich your vacation experience by providing a cultural and memorable adventure, with a glimpse of yesteryear and a rare view at our traditional rainforest 'medicine cabinet' in the Tongass National Forest.
Black Bear Express
Ketchikan's finest bear viewing accessible by road! Visit Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary for this unique opportunity to see black bear in their native habitat. Watch for bears from the safety of the raised boardwalks which maximize your viewing and provide protection. This is a short tour focused on opportunity to view bears. Your experience will start with a narrated tour through Ketchikan, followed by a scenic coastal drive to the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary. Within a very short time, you’ll find yourself in bear country. The only drive to bear viewing areas in Southeast Alaska…. This tour offers the same duration for black bear viewing as our comprehensive Black Bear & Wildlife Exploration tour. However, it is streamlined to exclusively focus on black bear sightings, omitting the additional time allocated for exploring our mini-features on site. This experience is curated strictly for seeing black bears in their natural habitat. When you arrive at the sanctuary, naturalist guides will join you, bringing the rich forest to life as you walk along an improved trail. You’ll be surrounded by magnificent stands of spruce, hemlock and cedar trees. And soon you’ll be watching for wild bears in search of spawning salmon and ample berries. These are safe, protected raised boardwalks, exclusively for bear tours only. You can expect to have an intimate viewing experience and to reduce environmental impacts, only a limited number of groups have access to this private bear viewing area. Your guide will lead you along another boardwalk system perched over the grassy wetlands alongside Herring Creek. You’ll have the chance to observe a rich run of spawning salmon and the bears and seals that come to fish for them, along with bald eagles and other birds that wait for scraps in the tidal estuary nearby. Your transportation will be waiting to pick you up where the tour began. *Please Note: The half-mile long trail is over relatively flat terrain. The focus of your tour will be on viewing black bear in their natural habitat. Your guide may change the order of the tour or time spent in any one area to give you the best chance to see bears. Although the chances for seeing bear are excellent, wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. The wildlife viewing time is approximately 60 minutes. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. No food or drink is allowed on the trail. You must follow your guide’s instructions at all times to ensure your safety. *ABOUT ALASKA RAINFOREST SANCTUARY In the heart of the Tongass National Forest lies Kawanti Adventures’ very own Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary. The sanctuary is known for its forest trails and boardwalk system that leads to an open estuary complete with a creek running out to the famous Herring Cove. The sanctuary is a hot spot for all wildlife, but specifically bald eagles and black bear.
Ketchikan Photo Safari
**Great option for those looking for a guided city tour of Ketchikan stopping at major city / area highlights; NO photography experience necessary! Ketchikan Photo Safari: Spend 3 hours in Ketchikan traveling with a local Alaskan photographer with great insight & knowledge. As part of a very small and intimate group, you will visit multiple sights to be given the best possible opportunities to use your photographic equipment to achieve iconic photos of the Ketchikan area "off the tourist beaten path". Flowers, totems, rain forest, beach, mountains, creeks, waterfalls, and the chance of wildlife encounters entice us to discover them all. Ketchikan Photo Safari guides are equipped with modern Mid-High Roof Ford Transit Passenger Vans for ease of entry and exit and your comfort and safety. Discover and discuss photographic techniques shared by your Ketchikan Photo Safari guide. Your guide is also a source of narrated history, facts and stories as you travel from site to site through town and into the wilds. From cell phones to "point ’N’ shoots" to sophisticated SLR cameras, virtually EVERY cruise ship passenger is a photographer but you may be frustrated because your friends ALWAYS take better photos than you. Join us for some epic shots you’ll be proud of. You may be a professional photographer and simply want to glean knowledge from a local photo guide and have great opportunities to capture some awesome images. Ketchikan Photo Safari welcomes the novice to the professional. You can expect 6 to 8 separate photo sites or more and enjoy complimentary snacks of gourmet cookies and locally brewed coffee + bottled water as you travel from site to site. This is an experience that will be time well invested in Ketchikan, Alaska. Popular Ketchikan stops include: -Creek St. historic boardwalk and Ketchikan Creek -Ketchikan Museum totem pole -Bar Harbor boat viewing -Potlatch Park -Mountain and ocean panoramas
The Great Alaska Beachcombing
A Remote Backcountry Excursion Embark on the "Great Alaska Beachcombing" tour, a captivating 45-minute helicopter journey that transports you through breathtaking mountainous terrains to a secluded ocean beach or lake. Ideal for nature enthusiasts of all ages, this tour offers a unique chance to explore remote landscapes, encounter wildlife, and search for elusive Japanese glass floats amidst stunning natural backdrops. Whether it's the tranquility of mountain lakes, the roar of waterfalls, or a serene nature walk, this adventure promises a memorable escape into Alaska's wild beauty. Suitable for up to four passengers, with a weight limit of 300 lbs. per seat. Tour through the mountains with a landing on a remote ocean beach or lake. (Mtn. lakes, Waterfalls, Rivers, Wildlife sightings possible, Nature walk, Beachcombing for Japanese glass floats)
The Mountain Point Snorkeling Adventure
Snorkeling in Ketchikan just might be the highlight of your trip to Alaska! Sounds crazy doesn’t it? The snorkeling in Alaska is amazing. Alaska’s intertidal zone provides a rich assortment of plants and animals to view. Don't worry about being cold. Our water temperature averages about 55 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer and reach a high of 65 degrees in July. We provide full 7mm wetsuits with a hood, boots and gloves to keep you warm while in the water. Wetsuits keep you warm by filling with a thin layer of water which heats up to body temperature in just a few minutes time. Discover the wonders of Southeast Alaska’s marine life with our premium snorkeling adventure at Mountain Point. Dive into clear, calm waters equipped with top-tier gear, guided by our certified experts. The site has shallow tide pools teeming with marine life and steep underwater rock walls for free diving, all just five miles from your ship. Join us for a thrilling and safe exploration of Alaska’s diverse and colorful marine life! The Mountain Point Snorkeling Adventure is an all inclusive Shore Excursion. We provide everything you need to snorkel safely and comfortably in our waters. We include roundtrip transportation, full instructions, all the equipment and a fully guided one hour marine life tour in addition to hot showers, drinking water, hot chocolate, coffee and tea. Behind every unparalleled snorkeling experience at Snorkel Alaska stands our dedicated team. With extensive knowledge, unmatched expertise, and unwavering passion for marine adventures, each member boasts top-tier credentials in the world of diving. With a collective experience spanning decades, our Professional Association of Diving Instructors-certified Divemasters and SCUBA Instructors ensure every dive is both safe and unforgettable. Don’t miss this once in a lifetime experience!
Private Ketchikan Cultural Tour (up to 10 guests)
Specializing in VIP tours of ten or fewer people. For all private tours, itinerary and schedule will be customized to fit the groups' interest. We begin with pickup at Eagle Park in our comfortable van in Ketchikan near the cruise ship dock. Guests are asked to arrive a few minutes early for check-in and to ensure a timely departure. Our tour starts with a comfortable drive to Herring Cove to explore a local waterfall and Rainforest Sanctuary. Then, we'll make our way into town to the Totem Heritage Center. This museum is host to dozens of beautiful and historic Totem Poles, dating back to the 1800s among other native artwork. Next, we'll head north to Totem Bight Historical Park, located on the former site of a traditional Native campground known as Mud Bight Village. See the Clan House and Totem Poles and hear stories of a legendary chief's strength, along with other totem stories and meanings. This remarkable site has significance dating back centuries, saw preservation improvements via the CCC in the 1930s, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Additional locations based on groups' interest: Our tours are fully customizable — you choose your favorite stops from our list, and we build the perfect 5-hour experience around your interests. If the tour runs a little over, we never charge extra. What we include on every tour: • Insight into our Native way of life • Traditional fishing, hunting, and food-gathering practices • How we work to keep our traditional food supply abundant • Environmental issues that impact our salmon, halibut, and local fisheries • Stories and teachings passed down through my wife’s long line of tribal leaders (both women and men) Popular stop options you can choose from: • Settlers Cove (short rainforest hike & salmon viewing) • Lunch Creek (bear viewing opportunities in season) • Medicinal plant identification walk • Buggie’s Beach tide pools • Creek Street boardwalk & seal viewing in August • Totem Heritage Center • Herring cove bear viewing • Totem Bight State Park • Bawden Street Brewery • Uncharted Distillery Join us for an engaging 5 hour tour of Ketchikan and surrounding cultural sites. Seventh-generation native tour guides are experts on local culture, flora, and fauna, bringing your group on a comfortable van ride to local sites!
Available Timing
Wildlife, City and Native Culture
Destinations are in no particular order: Herring Cove can be your first stop to find bears. This prime location is just minutes from downtown Ketchikan. Rainbow Falls is just a few minutes from the cove, get memorable pictures while you enjoy the flora and fauna that is home to many species. Mountain Point is home to family of resident eagles. The impressive eagles' nests can weigh up to a thousand pound. Choose from one of the totem parks or museum to learn about my native culture, art, totems and our way of life.
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