Totems, City & Wildlife by Cable Car Trolley

Ketchikan, nestled in the heart of Alaska, offers a captivating journey through its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural wonders. The "Totems, City & Wildlife by Cable Car Trolley" tour promises an immersive experience, showcasing the iconic totem poles, the vibrant city, and the chance to spot local wildlife. With expert guides and an intimate group setting, this tour provides a unique opportunity to explore Ketchikan’s captivating stories and uncover its hidden gems.

This experience made our article of 6 Must-Try City Tours In Ketchikan.

Key Points

• Experience Ketchikan’s highlights, including Fish Ladder, Native American totem poles, and wildlife viewing on a guided cable car trolley tour.
• The 2-hour tour departs from the downtown cruise ship dock and is limited to 34 travelers.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible but allows strollers, with children required to be accompanied by an adult.
• Guest reviews indicate a range of satisfaction levels, with mixed feedback on wildlife sightings and value for money.
• Competitive pricing and flexible cancellation policy facilitate booking the tour.

Tour Overview

The tour offers travelers the chance to experience Ketchikan aboard a San Francisco-style cable car trolley.

Highlights include the Fish Ladder, Native American totem poles at Saxman Native Village, and wildlife viewing at Herring Cove.

The fully narrated guided tour includes park admission fees and lasts approximately 2 hours, with a maximum of 34 travelers.

The tour departs from the downtown cruise ship dock, with check-in at the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau.

Pickup is available for guests at berths 3 & 4.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Departure for the tour takes place from the downtown Cruise Ship dock, berths 1 to 4. Guests must check-in at booth #17 inside the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau at least 20 minutes prior to departure. Pickup is available for guests at berths 3 & 4 if needed. The tour is open for direct meeting point selection.

Meeting & Pickup Information
Departure Location	Downtown Cruise Ship dock, berths 1-4
Check-in Location	Booth #17, Ketchikan Visitors Bureau
Check-in Time	At least 20 minutes before departure
Pickup Available	Berths 3 & 4
Meeting Point	Open for selection

Tour Inclusions and Accessibility

The tour includes all taxes, fees, and handling charges.

Gratuities aren’t included, however.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, strollers are allowed.

Children must be accompanied by an adult, and infants sit on laps.

A moderate level of physical fitness is required to fully enjoy the experience.

Guest Reviews and Experiences

With 116 reviews and an average rating of 3.9 stars, guests have provided a mix of positive and critical feedback on the Totems, City & Wildlife by Cable Car Trolley tour.

Positive reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and scenic views.

However, some guests felt the tour lacked clear meeting point directions, wildlife sightings, and value for money.

While some appreciated seeing bears and eagles, others felt the cost didn’t justify the experience.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

The tour price starts at $85.00 per person, and guests can take advantage of a free cancellation option up to 24 hours before the experience begins.

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and there’s a "reserve now, pay later" option available.

The key booking and cancellation policies include:

1. Tour price starts at $85.00 per person.
2. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
3. Confirmation received at the time of booking.
4. "Reserve now, pay later" option available.

Ketchikan’s Totem Poles

Totem poles are a unique and captivating cultural icon found throughout Ketchikan, Alaska. The city is home to the world’s largest collection of totem poles, with over 100 standing tall in various locations.

These intricate wooden carvings depict the stories, histories, and traditions of the indigenous Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples. During the tour, visitors can admire the totem poles at Saxman Native Village, learning about their symbolic meanings and the skilled artistry behind their creation.

Exploring Ketchikan’s totem poles offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Southeast Alaska.

Exploring Ketchikan’s Wildlife

Aboard the cable car trolley, visitors can catch glimpses of Ketchikan’s abundant wildlife. The tour often spotlights:

1. Majestic bald eagles soaring overhead or perched atop towering spruce trees.

2. Playful harbor seals bobbing in the surrounding waters.

3. Elusive black bears foraging for salmon along the shoreline of Herring Cove.

4. Migrating humpback whales breaching the surface, their powerful tails slapping the waves.

While wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, the guided tour provides an opportunity to appreciate Ketchikan’s natural beauty and diverse ecosystem.

With the right conditions, travelers may be rewarded with incredible wildlife encounters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snacks on the Tour?

Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages on the tour. However, the tour operator doesn’t provide any food or drinks, so guests should plan accordingly.

Is There a Restroom Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available during the tour. The tour includes a stop at the Saxman Native Village, where guests can use the public restrooms.

Are There Any Optional Add-On Activities Available?

The tour does not mention any optional add-on activities. It provides a 2-hour guided cable car trolley experience focused on highlights like the Fish Ladder, totem poles, and wildlife viewing, with all admission fees included in the base price.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour information states that it’s not wheelchair accessible, but strollers are permitted. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and infants can sit on laps during the 2-hour experience.

Is the Cable Car Trolley Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, though strollers are allowed. Guests with mobility concerns may find the moderate physical fitness level challenging. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and infants can sit on laps during the tour.

The Sum Up

The "Totems, City & Wildlife by Cable Car Trolley" tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Ketchikan’s unique charm. With knowledgeable guides, breathtaking views, and the chance to experience the city’s rich culture and natural beauty, this two-hour adventure is an ideal choice for families seeking a memorable and intimate experience. Guests can expect a well-organized tour that delivers on its promise of showcasing Ketchikan’s top attractions.