From Ketchikan: Potlatch Totem Park and Herring Cove Tour

Ketchikan’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty come together in the "From Ketchikan: Potlatch Totem Park and Herring Cove Tour." This 2.5-hour guided excursion immerses visitors in the ancient art of totem carving and offers a scenic coastal drive to key landmarks. But the real highlight? The wildlife watching at Herring Cove, where black bears and eagles may be spotted, especially during salmon season. Prepare to be captivated by the region’s breathtaking landscapes and fascinating history.

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Key Points

The 2.5-hour tour from Ketchikan explores Potlatch Park’s totem carving, showcases scenic coastal landmarks, and offers wildlife viewing opportunities at Herring Cove.
Guests observe skilled artisans carving traditional totem poles that depict stories of history, mythology, and clan lineages.
Herring Cove is a prime location for spotting black bears, eagles, herons, and seals during the salmon season.
The tour has an overall rating of 3.8/5 based on 18 reviews, with praise for knowledgeable and entertaining tour guides.
Visitors can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Ketchikan Potlatch Totem Park and Herring Cove Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Ketchikan’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders.

Priced at €78.12 per person, this 2.5-hour tour departs from Ketchikan and showcases the iconic Potlatch Totem Park and the scenic Herring Cove.

Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot now and pay later.

With free cancellation and a flexible payment option, this tour provides a convenient and hassle-free experience for travelers to discover the highlights of Ketchikan.

Looking for more options in Ketchikan? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Highlights of the Potlatch Park and Herring Cove Tour

As part of the Ketchikan Potlatch Totem Park and Herring Cove Tour, visitors can look forward to a guided exploration of the authentic Potlatch Park, where they’ll learn about the ancient art of totem carving.

The tour also includes a scenic coastal drive showcasing Ketchikan’s major landmarks, like the old pulp mill and Ward Cove Cannery.

At Herring Cove, guests have the chance to spot diverse wildlife, including black bears, eagles, herons, and seals, especially during the salmon season from June to September.

The tour provides an immersive experience to discover Ketchikan’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.

Ancient Art of Totem Carving

Although totem carving has ancient origins among the indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest, the practice remains an integral part of Ketchikan’s cultural heritage.

Visitors to Potlatch Park can witness skilled artisans carving intricate totem poles using traditional techniques. These towering works of art tell stories of the region’s history, mythology, and clan lineages.

Carved from red cedar, the totems depict a variety of animals and supernatural beings, each with its own symbolic meaning. Guests can observe the meticulous process, from roughing out the initial design to the final details, and gain insights into this enduring artistic tradition.

Scenic Coastal Drive and Ketchikan Landmarks

After exploring the ancient art of totem carving at Potlatch Park, the tour embarks on a scenic coastal drive showcasing Ketchikan’s major landmarks.

The route highlights the old pulp mill and Ward Cove Cannery, offering glimpses of Ketchikan’s industrial heritage. Along the way, travelers can admire the stunning natural scenery, including rugged coastlines and dense forests.

The tour guide provides informative commentary, sharing insights into the history and significance of these iconic Ketchikan landmarks.

This scenic drive complements the cultural experience at Potlatch Park, offering a well-rounded understanding of the region’s rich heritage and natural beauty.

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Wildlife Watching at Herring Cove

Next, the tour takes visitors to the stunning Herring Cove, a prime wildlife viewing location.

With the season’s salmon run, the chances of spotting black bears, eagles, herons, and seals are higher, especially from June to September. Guests can observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, as the guide shares insights about the area’s ecology and the animals’ behaviors.

The cove’s serene setting and breathtaking coastal scenery provide a picturesque backdrop for this wildlife-focused experience. Visitors are sure to leave with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for Ketchikan’s abundant natural wonders.

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Visitor Experiences and Reviews

Travelers who’ve experienced the Potlatch Totem Park and Herring Cove Tour have consistently highlighted the knowledgeable and entertaining nature of the tour guides.

The overall tour rating stands at 3.8/5 based on 18 reviews, with notable comments praising the beauty of the locations and suggesting visiting during salmon season for enhanced wildlife viewing.

Guests have expressed strong satisfaction with the guide’s ability to bring the ancient art of totem carving to life and provide engaging commentary on Ketchikan’s landmarks.

The tour offers a well-rounded experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s natural and cultural heritage.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The Potlatch Totem Park and Herring Cove Tour includes a guided visit to Potlatch Park to explore authentic totem poles and learn about the ancient art of totem carving, as well as a scenic coastal drive showcasing major Ketchikan landmarks.

The tour package also covers:

Transportation and Potlatch Park fees
Knowledgeable and entertaining tour guides
Wildlife watching opportunities at Herring Cove, especially during salmon season

However, the tour excludes food, drinks, and tips.

It’s also not suitable for wheelchair users, and guests must be able to ascend and descend vehicle steps.

Certain items, such as high-heeled shoes, large bags, and pets, are also not allowed on the tour.

Meeting Point and Important Information

Guests must check in at booth #17 inside the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau or at berth #4 for NCL ship passengers.

Travelers should arrive 20 minutes prior to departure to ensure a smooth check-in process.

All guests must be able to ascend and descend vehicle steps, as the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Large bags, pets (except assistance dogs), smoking, vaping, alcohol, and drugs aren’t allowed on the vehicle.

Following these simple guidelines will help ensure a pleasant and hassle-free experience on the Ketchikan Potlatch Totem Park and Herring Cove Tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but they are not included in the tour price. The tour provider does not provide any meals or refreshments, so guests should plan accordingly.

Is There a Restroom Available During the Tour?

The tour does not include any stops at restrooms during the 2.5-hour duration. Guests are advised to use the restroom facilities before the tour departs, as no on-board restrooms are available. Plan accordingly for your comfort.

How Much Walking Is Involved in the Tour?

The tour involves moderate walking, with guests expected to navigate steps and uneven terrain at Potlatch Park and Herring Cove. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The vehicle’s accessibility for wheelchair users is limited.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, guests are encouraged to take photos during the tour. The tour allows ample opportunities to capture the scenic landscapes, totem poles, and wildlife at Potlatch Park and Herring Cove. However, smoking, vaping, and large bags are not permitted.

Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour is primarily offered in English, but the company may provide translators or audio guides in other languages upon request, depending on availability and group size. Guests should inquire about language options when booking the tour.

The Sum Up

The "From Ketchikan: Potlatch Totem Park and Herring Cove Tour" offers an immersive experience of Ketchikan’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Visitors can explore the ancient art of totem carving, enjoy a scenic coastal drive, and witness wildlife like black bears and eagles at Herring Cove. With knowledgeable guides and breathtaking scenery, this tour provides an unforgettable adventure for €78.12 per person.