Ketchikan: Rainforest Sanctuary Walk & Totem Park Tour

Summary

Walk Ketchikan’s wild rainforest, meet eagles, see totems up close

You’ll walk beneath Ketchikan’s towering rainforest trees with a local guide, watch for eagles or maybe even bears near Herring Cove, and get close to hand-carved Tsimshian totem poles at an old sawmill. Along the way you’ll hear stories from locals who know every trail—and maybe catch yourself pausing just to breathe in all that wild air.

What’s the experience like?

“You hear that?” our guide, Jamie, whispered as we stepped under the thick canopy at the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary. I’d just been laughing about how my rain jacket was already losing the battle (Ketchikan drizzle is no joke), but then I caught it too—a kind of hush, except for the crows arguing overhead and something splashing way off in the creek. The ground felt spongy under my boots and everything smelled like wet cedar and moss. Jamie pointed out a bear print in the mud—honestly, I didn’t expect to feel a little nervous about that, but there it was.

We wandered along these wooden boardwalks through Herring Cove, where you could see salmon flickering in the water below if you looked hard enough. There was this moment when a bald eagle swooped low over us—so close I ducked (unnecessary, but still). Jamie told us about how the estuary changes with the seasons and why all these animals show up when the salmon run. She grew up here; you could tell by how she talked about everything—like she knew every tree personally. At one point she stopped to show us some lichen and said her grandma used to use it for tea. I tried smelling it—kind of earthy, not sure I’d drink it though.

The last part took us over to this open area with these massive Tsimshian totem poles—one was almost as tall as the trees around it. The artist carved seventeen of them right here at this old sawmill (the smell of wood shavings still hung around). We learned what each animal meant on the poles—I tried repeating one of the names in Tsimshian; Jamie laughed and said I got closer than most people. After that we just stood there for a bit while everyone took photos or just stared quietly. The light started changing—the clouds broke for a second—and everything looked kind of silver-green. I still think about that view sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Ketchikan Rainforest Sanctuary

• Join naturalist-led ecotour
• Hike lush trail with wildlife stops
• Visit Herring Cove wildlife sanctuary
• Observe bald eagles, bears, salmon
• Explore local estuary during salmon season
• Discover Tsimshian totem pole park
• Learn totem pole carving history

Top questions

How long is the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary tour?

The walking tour lasts approximately 2.75 hours from start to finish.

Is transportation included in this Ketchikan rainforest tour?

Yes, air-conditioned vehicle transport is included with your booking.

Will we see wildlife like bears or eagles?

You may spot bald eagles, black bears, salmon, or seals depending on season and luck.

Are there many stairs or is it wheelchair accessible?

The entire route is wheelchair accessible and suitable for strollers or prams.

What’s special about the Tsimshian totem pole park?

This park features 17 hand-carved poles by one artist—the first Tsimshian park in the country.

Is this tour suitable for young kids or older travelers?

Yes, travelers of all ages can join; moderate fitness is suggested but paths are gentle.

Does this day trip run if it rains?

The tour operates in all weather conditions—rain gear is recommended for Ketchikan’s climate.

What’s included

Your experience includes pickup by air-conditioned vehicle from Ketchikan, guided walks through Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary trails with a local naturalist guide sharing stories and wildlife spotting tips along the way, plus time exploring the Tsimshian totem pole park at a historic sawmill before heading back into town together.