3 Hour Private Tour with a Local Native ( Price up to 5)

Explore Ketchikan with a Native Guide for an Authentic Experience

This 3-hour private tour in Ketchikan, USA, offers an in-depth look at the local Tlingit culture, history, and wildlife, guided by a born and raised native Alaskan. Priced at $460 per group (up to 5 people), this tour provides a personalized experience with hotel pickup and drop-off included. It’s a perfect choice for small groups who want an intimate, cultural adventure. The tour is typically booked around 83 days in advance and runs daily from 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM.

What makes this tour stand out is the expert local guide, who shares stories about native art, medicinal plants, and the landscape. The stops include iconic sites like Potlatch Totem Park, Herring Cove, and Beaver Falls, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing, scenic photography, and cultural insights. While the tour offers a rich experience, it’s best suited for those comfortable with some walking and outdoor exploration.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience led by a native Alaskan guide
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience
• Multiple stops at wildlife viewing sites and cultural landmarks
• Learn about Tlingit art, history, and medicinal plants
• See diverse wildlife such as bears, eagles, and seals during the tour
• Cost of $460 covers the entire group, up to five people

Discover the Landmarks of Ketchikan with a Personal Guide

This tour offers a comprehensive look at Ketchikan’s landscape and cultural sites. The journey begins with a drive to Herring Cove, a prime spot for wildlife viewing, especially bears during salmon runs from mid-June to early September. Here, the chances of spotting wildlife make this stop a highlight of the experience. The proximity to Beaver Falls adds a scenic element, showcasing flowing waters, alder and hemlock trees, and wildflowers.

The tour then visits Tongass Narrows, a busy waterway where fishing fleets, whales, and eagles are often seen. It’s a vibrant area that captures the essence of Ketchikan’s maritime environment. Alongside wildlife observation, the tour includes stops for picture opportunities and insights into the local ecosystem, making it educational and visually rewarding.

Visiting Beaver Falls and Its Natural Beauty

Beaver Falls is a favorite for its picturesque scenery, which includes a dam and creek diversion, surrounded by lush forest and wildflowers. The quick 15-minute stop allows visitors to appreciate the calm waters and nature’s tranquility. This location also provides a chance to observe local flora and berries, adding an edible and medicinal element to the experience.

Although brief, this stop enhances the overall tour by emphasizing Ketchikan’s natural environment. Visitors should be prepared for some walking or standing, but the views and peaceful atmosphere make it worthwhile.

The Charm of Salmon Ladder and Beachside Parks

The Salmon Ladder presents a lively scene, especially during salmon spawning season. It’s a popular saltwater swimming hole and beachside park that offers the chance to search for seashells, driftwood, and seaglass. The 20-minute stop provides a relaxed setting to explore and enjoy the coastal environment.

Adjacent to the Salmon Ladder is Potlatch Totem Park, a cultural site built on traditional native fishing grounds. The park features totem poles, a clan house, and a carving center, where native designs and totems tell stories of Tlingit heritage. This 45-minute stop is rich in cultural significance and offers a museum experience that deepens understanding of native art and history.

Potlatch Totem Park: A Cultural Treasure

Potlatch Totem Park is a highlight of this tour, showcasing beautiful totem poles and a clan house that once housed several family members. Visitors observe a variety of totem designs, each representing native symbolism and storytelling. The park also includes a carving center and museum, where native tools and artwork are displayed, providing an authentic glimpse into Tlingit craftsmanship.

The local ownership of the park by a Tshimpshian/Haida family ensures an authentic presentation of native culture. The 45-minute visit allows enough time to absorb the art, architecture, and stories associated with each totem.

The Experience of a Native-Guided Tour

Lisa Edenshaw-Krieger, the guide, is a native Alaskan whose passion and knowledge shine through during the tour. She shares personal stories, cultural insights, and medicinal plant tips, including tasting spruce tips. Her storytelling style brings the history and traditions of Ketchikan alive, making this more than just a sightseeing trip.

The guide’s familiarity with local wildlife also enhances wildlife spotting efforts, such as bears, eagles, and seals. Her customized approach ensures that the tour caters to the group’s interests, making each experience unique and engaging.

Practical Details and Logistics

This private tour departs from the Alaska Airlines terminal building at Ketchikan Airport. The hotel pickup and drop-off service adds convenience, especially for those staying nearby. The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, allowing ample time to see multiple sites without feeling rushed.

Since the tour is private, only your group participates, providing a more intimate experience. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed, and is accessible via public transportation.

Flexibility and Booking Considerations

This tour is typically booked around 83 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The full refund policy applies if canceled at least 24 hours before the start time, giving flexibility in case of weather or schedule changes. However, cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

While most travelers can participate, it’s good to be prepared for some outdoor walking and the possibility of wildlife sightings depending on seasonal timing.

Final Thoughts: An Authentic, Cultural, and Wildlife-Focused Tour

This 3-hour private tour offers a deep dive into Ketchikan’s natural beauty and Tlingit culture. The native guide’s expertise ensures an informative and engaging experience, whether spotting bears at Herring Cove or exploring Totem Park’s art. The inclusion of hotel pickup and the private setting makes for a comfortable and customized outing.

While the cost of $460 might seem high for some, it covers the entire group and guarantees a personalized experience. It’s ideal for those wanting a more meaningful connection to Alaska’s indigenous heritage and wildlife.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, visits to Herring Cove, Beaver Falls, Tongass Narrows, Salmon Ladder, and Potlatch Totem Park, and guidance by a native Alaskan.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but those comfortable with outdoor walking will enjoy it most.

Can the tour be canceled if weather is bad?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from the Alaska Airlines terminal building at Ketchikan Airport.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
Wildlife such as bears, eagles, seals, and whales can be observed during the stops, especially at Herring Cove and Tongass Narrows.

Who is the guide?
The guide is Lisa Edenshaw-Krieger, a native Alaskan with extensive knowledge of local culture and nature.

Is this tour customizable?
Yes, the guide customizes the experience based on the group’s interests and weather conditions.