From Cache

Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary and Totem Park

4.5
119 reviews

Excursion Overview

Learn about Alaskan rainforests that make up the great state of Alaska.

A delightful eight-mile coastal drive takes you to the exclusive Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary, a private reserve located in the forested mountains at rustic Herring Cove. This pristine natural environment is home to bald eagles, black bears, seals, a variety of birds, and other species attracted by the major salmon runs in the abundant marine estuary. In addition to wildlife viewing opportunities, this tour enables you to see and observe a master native totem pole carver at work.

You will be greeted by your naturalist and guided along an improved trail through the heart of the dense forest, amongst tall stands of hemlock, spruce, and Alaska cedar. The forest floor is covered with mosses, wildflowers, and a variety of berries. Stops will be made at strategically located viewing areas. Your guide will lead you to a protected open estuary, where you follow Eagle Creek along an elevated wooden boardwalk overlooking grassy wetlands. Major runs of salmon return to spawn here. Watch and listen to the symphony of bird activity in this spectacular setting.

During the spawning season bears and seals feed on salmon in Eagle Creek and the likelihood of viewing these fascinating animals is good. Bald eagles and other birds wait for scraps in the estuary. Sitka blacktail deer, mink, and marten also frequent the area. Seasonal ecosystem changes result in varying levels of wildlife activity. If you like nature, you will love this tour.

At the conclusion of the hike, enjoy great photographic opportunities as you are guided through the historic Herring Bay Lumber Company sawmill, established by legendary pioneer Ben Fleenor. Observe a master native totem pole carver at work and enjoy his many works in front of our General Store.

Things You Need to Know

Inclusions:

  • Rain ponchos if needed
  • Spotting scopes at the sawmill estuary

Requirements:

  • 1/2 mile walk on uneven terrain through forest. Not recommended for guests with mobility issues.

Duration: 2.75 hours (Roundtrip from the Liquid Sunshine Rain Gauge in downtown Ketchikan central to the cruise ship terminal)

  • 20 minutes - narrated scenic tour to Rainforest Wildlife Sanctuary
  • 5 minutes - safety briefing and restroom break
  • 1.25 hours - guided rainforest trail walk
  • 25 minutes - a tour of the historic sawmill and totem park
  • 20 minutes - in the gift shop before returning
  • 20 minutes - transfer to the cruise ship pier

Meeting Instructions:

  • This tour meets at the Liquid Sunshine Rain Gauge. Guest docking at Ward Cove must take a complimentary shuttle to downtown Ketchikan. Drop-off provided to guests returning to Ward Cove. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers.

ADA Accessibility of Tour:

  • This tour is limited mobility and wheelchair accessible. Guests should have a traveling companion to assist with pushing the wheelchair during the tour. If this is not an option, let us know to make other arrangements. Please leave a comment during checkout to confirm adequate space in transportation if a wheelchair will be brought on tour.

Refund Policy:

  • You may cancel for any reason up to seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund.
  • Please see our Refund Policy Page for complete details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wildlife is abundant in Southeast Alaska and sightings are possible on any tour. Bears are often seen during the late summer salmon spawning season, however cannot be guaranteed!

There are no age restrictions for this tour.

Backpacks, small bags, and purses are allowed on this tour.

Food and drink are not allowed on the tour.

No, food and drinks are not included on this tour.

Guests must be comfortable walking medium distances on uneven terrain.

Layered clothing and waterproof outerwear are recommended.

 

Guest Reviews

4.5

119 total

61%
29%
6%
3%
0%

Susan T

On Sep 2024

Our guide, Ariah, was excellent. Her presentation was interesting and informative without overwhelming us with facts. The rainforest was delightful despite the cold rainy weather. We also enjoyed seeing the harbor seals and salmon in the estuary. We skipped over the Totem Park as the weather worsened and the comfort of the sawmill beckoned.

Joanne M

On Sep 2024

Our guide Jake made the tour fun and was knowledgeable. Interesting information about the rain forest and salmon hatchery. Learning about the totems was interesting as well. Unfortunately it was raining quite hard so made it difficult to spend more time exploring. We had hoped to see some wildlife but it didn't happen.

Lynn M

On Sep 2024

Very much enjoyed this excursion. Our guide was knowledgeable and enjoyable. Plus we saw 3 black bears!

Vicky K

On Aug 2024

Jake did an excellent job of explaining the plant life of the rainforest and the uses of the plants in the life of native Americans. He was also very knowledgeable about the stories the totem poles represent.

Alison K

On Aug 2024

Our guide was knowledgeable, friendly and accommodating. I highly recommend this tour.

$110.00

Best Price Guarantee!

$110.00

Duration: 2.75 hours

Best Price Guarantee!

Duration: 2.75 hours



Adult (13+): $110.00

Child (2-12): $55.00

Infant (Under 2): $0.00

From Cache -BTN