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Wildlife Sanctuary and Totem Park

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Description

If wildlife viewing is on your Alaska bucket list, this budget-friendly excursion provides great opportunities! The Alaska Wildlife Sanctuary is a 40-acre private reserve and is home to all varieties of wildlife that are attracted to the rich salmon spawning zones of nearby Eagle Creek. A naturalist guide takes you for a scenic stroll offering information and narration along the way - a photographer's delight!

Transportation is provided for you with a convenient pick-up location right near the cruise docks in downtown Ketchikan. Enjoy a narrated 8-mile drive along the coast before arriving at the reserve, bordering the Tongass National Forest at rustic Herring Cove. Your knowledgeable guide will greet you and set the pace for a leisurely forest walk, complete with scenic viewing areas for viewing eagles and possibly black bears from raised viewing decks. Follow the boardwalk along Eagle Creek to view the grassy wetlands characterized by endless varieties of birds which can be seen and heard along the way. The guides share their knowledge of both the local wildlife and plant life that make up this diverse landscape and ecosystem.

After completing the loop through stands of towering spruce, cedar, and western hemlock trees, you'll explore a historic sawmill (a trademark of Alaska's early pioneer days). Nearby, you might catch a master totem carver at work and stand witness as a massive cedar is slowly transformed into a work of art. Several totems on site make for great photographs and shed some light on the native culture and communities of this area. Check out the General Store for locally-made goods to round-off the experience before the scenic drive back to the cruise docks.

What's Included

Dock-to-dock transportation is included with this tour. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your naturalist guide who will provide narration and information along the way. Stops will be made for pictures at designated viewing areas. Rain ponchos can be provided if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the walking path like? Is it suitable for wheelchairs?

The 3/4-mile walking portion of the tour is on a well-maintained forest trail, with compressed gravel as well as an elevated wooden boardwalk. Most of the trail system is flat, however there are short (30 yards) sections with moderate inclines and declines. The walks occur over compressed gravel and wooden boardwalks that are accessible to wheelchair users, but are weather dependent. During periods of heavy rain the trail can be difficult to navigate in a wheelchair. Wheelchairs are not provided on site, however with at least 24 hours notice we can provide an able-bodied person to push/assist anyone in a wheelchair.

What if our cruise ship's schedule is canceled or delayed?

We will try our best to work with you to reschedule the tour to a later time. If that is not a possibility or your ship doesn't make it into port, then you will receive a refund, less any non-refundable fees.

What is the best time of year for bear viewing?

Much of the local wildlife including the eagles and bears centers around the salmon run. Typically, late-July through September are the best times for bear viewing in this area, but they can be spotted throughout the season. Though we can't predict Mother Nature's schedule, it's always a pleasure to see bears when they are out!

When should we reserve this tour? Can we book it when we arrive to Ketchikan?

This tour, like many others, does operate with limited spacing so advanced reservations are recommended. Often times, last minute reservations or day-of arrivals cannot be accommodated, so we always say that it's best to book the tour as soon as you have an idea that this is the one for you.

What should I wear?

This tour operates in all weather conditions. Comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, and waterproof jacket are recommended. A rain poncho can be provided if you need one. Don’t forget your sunglasses and camera!

Quick Facts

Ketchikan

Wildlife

2h 45min

The minimum age for participants is 0 years old.

Cancel up to 14-days before the tour for a refund. No refund is available if canceled within 14-days of the tour. If for any reason your tour is canceled, or if your cruise ship’s schedule changes, you will receive a refund. Refunds do not include any non-refundable fees.

$109

$59

Free