Ketchikan: Totem Pole, Wildlife & City Trolley Tour

Ketchikan, known as the "Salmon Capital of the World," offers visitors a chance to enjoy the vibrant culture and stunning wildlife of Alaska. The Totem Pole, Wildlife & City Trolley Tour provides a comprehensive 130-minute experience, allowing you to explore the Saxman Native Village, witness master carvers at work, and spot bald eagles, seals, and even grizzly bears at Herring Cove. Whether you’re interested in learning about the rich heritage of the Tlingit people or simply seeking to capture the essence of this remarkable destination, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.

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

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Key Points

A comprehensive 130-minute tour in Ketchikan, the "Salmon Capital of the World," priced at €78.12 per person and conducted in English.
Exploration of the Saxman Native Village, featuring the world’s largest collection of 29 authentic hand-carved totem poles.
Opportunity to observe master carvers crafting intricate totem poles in the on-site carving shed.
Wildlife viewing at Herring Cove with potential sightings of eagles, bears, seals, and marine mammals.
Guided tour providing insights into the history and traditions of totem pole carving.

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Tour Overview

The Ketchikan: Totem Pole, Wildlife & City Trolley Tour is a comprehensive 130-minute excursion that allows visitors to enjoy the cultural heritage and natural beauty of Ketchikan, known as the "Salmon Capital of the World."

Priced at €78.12 per person, the tour is conducted in English and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve their spot without an upfront payment, providing booking flexibility.

The tour explores Saxman Native Village, home to the world’s largest collection of totem poles, and offers wildlife viewing opportunities at Herring Cove.

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Itinerary Highlights

Explore Saxman Native Village, home to the world’s largest collection of totem poles. Visitors can admire 29 authentic hand-carved totem poles during the tour.

Saxman Native Village boasts the world’s largest collection of 29 hand-carved authentic totem poles.

The tour also includes a visit to the carving shed, where guests can observe master carvers at work, learning about the intricate process.

Another highlight is the wildlife viewing at Herring Cove, where eagle, bear, and seal sightings are possible during salmon spawning season.

The guided tour provides insights into the history and traditions behind totem pole carving, offering a unique cultural experience in Ketchikan.

Exploring Saxman Native Village

One of the highlights of the Ketchikan: Totem Pole, Wildlife & City Trolley Tour is the visit to Saxman Native Village, which boasts the world’s largest collection of totem poles.

Guests will have the opportunity to:

View 29 authentic hand-carved totem poles that stand tall, showcasing intricate designs and cultural significance.
Observe master carvers at work in the on-site carving shed.
Gain insights into the history and traditions of totem pole carving from the knowledgeable tour guides.
Immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the Tlingit people.

This captivating experience provides a deeper understanding of the native art and traditions that define Ketchikan’s unique identity.

Witnessing Totem Pole Carving

As visitors stroll through the Saxman Native Village, they’ve the unique opportunity to observe master carvers skillfully crafting intricate totem poles.

In the carving shed, these skilled artisans meticulously shape and carve the wood, revealing the intricate designs and symbols that tell the stories of their culture.

Visitors can witness the patience and precision required to create these towering works of art, which can take months or even years to complete.

The chance to see the carving process firsthand is a highlight of the tour, offering a deeper understanding of this centuries-old tradition.

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Wildlife Viewing at Herring Cove

The tour then takes visitors to Herring Cove, a prime location for spotting diverse wildlife during the salmon spawning season.

Guests may have the chance to observe:

Majestic bald eagles soaring overhead or perched in the trees, scanning the waters for their next catch.
Curious seals bobbing in the waves, hunting for their own tasty salmon.
Grizzly bears lumbering along the shoreline, taking advantage of the abundant food source.
Pods of orcas or humpback whales breaching the surface in the distance.

With the guidance of the knowledgeable tour leaders, participants can enjoy the natural wonders of Ketchikan.

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Relax on the City Trolley

Passengers then relax on an authentic San Francisco-style trolley as the tour winds through the charming city of Ketchikan, known as the "Salmon Capital of the World." The guided tour provides insights into the history and notable landmarks of this coastal community, allowing visitors to soak in the picturesque scenery at a leisurely pace. The tour highlights the city’s rich heritage, showcasing its unique architecture and waterfront setting. As the trolley glides through the streets, passengers can enjoy the fresh air and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and harbor.

| Landmark | History |

| — | — |

| Creek Street | Former "Red Light District" now a charming waterfront boardwalk |

| Saxman Native Village | Home to the world’s largest collection of totem poles |

| Ketchikan’s Waterfront | Bustling with fishing boats, canneries, and seafood restaurants |

Guided Tour Experience

Though the tour begins at the Saxman Native Village, visitors are immediately immersed in the rich cultural heritage of Ketchikan.

The guided experience provides in-depth insights into the history and traditions of the region’s iconic totem pole carving. Guests can observe master carvers at work in the carving shed, watching as they skillfully wield their tools.

The tour also offers opportunities for wildlife viewing at Herring Cove, where bald eagles, bears, and seals may be spotted during salmon spawning season.

Throughout the experience, the knowledgeable guides share engaging narratives that bring the local culture to life.

Important Information and Accessibility

Meeting at the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau (booth 17) at least 20 minutes prior to departure is essential, as the tour includes a shuttle service from the NCL ship to downtown.

Comfort and preparedness are key, so pack comfortable shoes, warm layers, and rain gear. Photography enthusiasts should bring cameras and binoculars.

Certain items aren’t allowed, including high heels, sandals, pets (except service animals), large luggage, smoking, alcohol, and strong fragrances.

The tour is considered easy access but requires the ability to navigate a few stairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The tour operator does not allow bringing outside food or drinks, except for water. Participants should plan to purchase any needed refreshments at the tour’s designated stops or in Ketchikan’s town center.

Do I Need to Tip the Tour Guide?

Tipping the tour guide is generally not required, but it’s common to tip for good service. A 10-15% tip is appreciated and shows your satisfaction with the guide’s knowledge and performance during the tour.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Children?

The tour does not explicitly mention any discounts for seniors or children. However, it’s always a good idea to inquire about any available discounts when booking the tour, as some providers may offer reduced rates for certain age groups.

Can I Leave the Group to Explore on My Own?

The tour doesn’t allow you to explore on your own. It’s a guided experience, and participants are expected to stay with the group. Leaving the group would go against the tour’s structure and safety protocols.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Wheelchair Users?

The tour is considered easy access, but it requires the ability to walk up and down a few stairs. Unfortunately, it may not be fully accessible for wheelchair users due to the presence of stairs at certain points during the tour.

The Sum Up

The Ketchikan Totem Pole, Wildlife & City Trolley Tour provides a comprehensive experience that immerses visitors in the vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty of this Alaskan destination. From admiring the world’s largest collection of totem poles to spotting wildlife like bald eagles and grizzly bears, this tour offers an unforgettable way to explore Ketchikan’s rich heritage and captivating landscapes.