How to Plan Your Lighthouse, Totems, and Eagles Excursion in Ketchikan

Ketchikan, Alaska boasts of its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and historical sites. One of the popular tours is the Lighthouse, Totems, and Eagles Excursion that combines a scenic tour with a historical and cultural educational trip. To experience this captivating tour, outlined below are tips on how to plan your Lighthouse, Totems, and Eagles Excursion in Ketchikan.

Overview

This tour takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, and the starting point is the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau/Berth 2, located at Berth #2, Ketchikan, AK 99901 USA. The tour ends at the starting point. A representative from Lighthouse Excursions will be holding a white sign that says “Lighthouse Excursions” at the famous rain gauge & bronze statue located on the north end of the Visitor Information Center on BERTH #2 (cruise pier) 15 minutes before departure time, which is between 08:30 am or 01:30 pm.

What’s Included

The following is included in the tour:

• Waterproof fogproof Bushnell binoculars for your use while on tour.
• Snacks
• Coffee and/or Tea
• Admission ticket to Totem Bight State Historical Park and Guard Island Lighthouse
• Transportation in a heated vehicle and a 27-foot covered tour vessel.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point is the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau/Berth 2, located at Berth #2, Ketchikan, AK 99901 USA. Meet at the famous rain gauge & bronze statue located on the north end of the Visitor Information Center on BERTH #2 (cruise pier) 15 minutes before departure time, which is between 08:30 am or 01:30 pm. This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What to Expect

The Lighthouse, Totems, and Eagles Excursion has the following itinerary:

1. Ward Cove
2. Totem Bight State Historical Park
3. Guard Island Lighthouse
4. Tongass Narrows
5. Frontier Fishing Lodge Marina and Resort

At Ward Cove, visitors get to see the massive shipbuilding and repair yard of Alaska Ship and Drydock (Ketchikan’s largest employer) and learn about the world-famous Alaskan salmon fishing industry. The tour then continues to Totem Bight State Historical Park. This park offers a chance to see authentic Alaskan totem poles, each telling a unique story about the indigenous culture. The tour then heads to Guard Island Lighthouse, which was built-in 1903 and sits high on a rocky ledge overlooking the Tongass Narrows. Here visitors learn about the history and function of the lighthouse on this dangerous section of the Tongass Narrows. As the tour continues to Tongass Narrows, visitors get an amazing view of Pennock Island and Grant Island, where eagles often perch atop trees. The final stop is Frontier Fishing Lodge Marina and Resort, situated in the calm waters of Clover Pass. Here visitors get a chance to catch a glimpse of Alaska’s unique marine wildlife and natural surroundings, such as sea lions, harbor seals, and dozens of eagle nests. Visitors might also indulge in a bucket of delicious crab.

Additional Info

The Lighthouse, Totems, and Eagles Excursion confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, although the tour company provides wheelchair service to and from the tour vessel for those who can navigate 3-4 steps on and off the tour vessel and transportation. Service animals are allowed.

Book The Tour Here

To book your Lighthouse, Totems, and Eagles Excursion in Ketchikan, click on this link and follow the instructions on the website: https://www.viator.com/tours/Ketchikan/Lighthouse-Totems-and-Eagles-Excursion/d942-154603P1?pid=P00070472&mcid=42383.

Final Thoughts

To make the most of this educational and cultural experience, follow the tips on how to plan your Lighthouse, Totems, and Eagles Excursion in Ketchikan. Bring your comfortable clothing and camera with you and keep your eyes open to the breathtaking views and wildlife. Always remember to respect the indigenous culture and natural resources. With these tips, you are guaranteed to have an unforgettable Alaskan adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a small city in southeastern Alaska, located on Revillagigedo Island. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Ketchikan is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, as well as for those interested in learning about Native Alaskan culture. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Ketchikan:

1. What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Ketchikan?

The best time to visit Ketchikan is during the summer months, from May to September. During this time, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the low 70s. This is also the time when most of the local attractions, such as the fishing charters, Native Alaskan cultural events, and hiking trails, are open.

2. Can You See the Northern Lights in Ketchikan?

While Ketchikan is located in a part of Alaska where the Northern Lights can be seen, it is not the best place to view this natural phenomenon. The lights are more easily visible in areas with less light pollution and farther north, such as Fairbanks or Anchorage. However, if you do find yourself in Ketchikan during the right time of year, it is worth looking up at the night sky to see if you can catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis.

3. What are Some of the Top Things to Do in Ketchikan?

There are many things to do in Ketchikan, depending on your interests. Some of the top attractions include:

• Taking a fishing charter to catch some of the world-famous Alaska salmon and halibut.
• Exploring the Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the United States.
• Visiting the Totem Bight State Historical Park to learn about Native Alaskan culture.
• Taking a scenic flightseeing tour over Misty Fjords National Monument.
• Going on a whale-watching tour to see humpback and killer whales up close.

4. How Can You Get to Ketchikan?

Ketchikan is only accessible by boat or plane. There are daily flights to Ketchikan International Airport from Seattle, as well as seasonal flights from other Alaskan cities. The Alaska Marine Highway Ferry also serves Ketchikan, with daily departures from cities such as Juneau and Sitka.

5. What is the Weather Like in Ketchikan?

The weather in Ketchikan is generally cool and rainy, with an average annual rainfall of more than 150 inches. Temperatures range from the mid-30s to the mid-60s, with the warmest month being August. It is important to pack warm and waterproof clothing, no matter what time of year you plan to visit.

6. What Can You Expect to See at the Totem Bight State Historical Park?

The Totem Bight State Historical Park is an excellent place to learn about Native Alaskan culture. This park features more than a dozen totem poles, as well as replicas of traditional Native Alaskan clan houses. Visitors can take a self-guided tour through the park to learn about the significance of each totem pole and the history of the Tlingit people.

7. Are There any Festivals or Events in Ketchikan?

Yes, there are several festivals and events in Ketchikan throughout the year. Some of the most popular events include:

• The Ketchikan Salmon Derby, held every August, where fishermen compete for the largest catch.
• The Blueberry Arts Festival, held every August, which features live music, arts and crafts, and plenty of blueberry-themed treats.
• The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, held from May through September, featuring lumberjack competitions and acrobatics.

8. What is the Best Way to Explore the Tongass National Forest?

There are many ways to explore the Tongass, depending on your interests. Some of the most popular activities include hiking, camping, fishing, and kayaking. There are also several tour companies that offer guided eco-tours through the forest, allowing visitors to learn about the ecology and wildlife of the area.

9. What Wildlife Can You See in Ketchikan?

Ketchikan is home to a diverse array of wildlife, both on land and in the water. Some of the most commonly seen animals include:

• Bald eagles
• Black bears
• Harbor seals
• Sea otters
• Humpback whales
• Killer whales
• Salmon and halibut (if fishing)

10. Is Ketchikan a Good Place to Learn About Native Alaskan Culture?

Yes, Ketchikan is an excellent place to learn about Native Alaskan culture. In addition to the Totem Bight State Historical Park, there are several other attractions that offer insights into the history and traditions of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian people. These include the Saxman Native Village, the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center, and the Totem Heritage Center.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a beautiful Alaskan town that offers plenty of opportunities for travelers to indulge in various activities. The town is surrounded by natural beauty and provides perfect settings for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those who want to experience the local culture. In this guide, we will take you through a comprehensive tour of Ketchikan’s top attractions and give you tips on how to make the most of your time.

1. Visit the Misty Fjords National Monument

The Misty Fjords National Monument is an absolute must-visit if you’re in Ketchikan. The place is home to some of the most scenic fjords that are surrounded by breathtaking waterfalls and abundant wildlife. You can explore the fjords by taking a helicopter tour, which is undoubtedly the best way to experience the vastness of this remarkable landscape.

2. Go Fishing

Ketchikan is known for being the ‘Salmon Capital of the World’ and offers plenty of opportunities for fishing enthusiasts. The town provides an excellent habitat for salmon, halibut, and other fish due to the abundance of rivers and streams. If you’re an avid fisherman, you can book a guided fishing tour and have an unforgettable experience hunting fish.

3. Explore Creek Street

Creek Street is a famous historic district in Ketchikan that offers a glimpse into the town’s past. The district is home to many colorful buildings that are built on stilts above the Ketchikan Creek. You can stroll through the district and explore various shops, art galleries, and restaurants.

4. Visit the Totem Heritage Center

The Totem Heritage Center is a museum that displays a collection of totem poles from the Tlingit and Haida tribes. The center provides a fascinating insight into the region’s indigenous culture and history. You can also take a guided tour and learn about the crafting process of totem poles.

5. Take a Rainforest Hike

Ketchikan’s lush green rainforests offer a perfect opportunity for hiking enthusiasts to explore the region’s natural beauty. You can take a guided rainforest hike tour or venture out on your own. The hikes in the region range from easy to challenging, so you have plenty of options to choose from.

6. Watch a Lumberjack Show

The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show is an entertaining event that offers a unique insight into Ketchikan’s rich logging history. The show includes various lumberjack competitions, including log rolling, axe throwing, and chainsaw competitions.

7. Visit the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center

The Southeast Alaska Discovery Center is an educational center that showcases the natural and cultural history of Southeast Alaska. The center displays various exhibits that give insight into the life and history of the region’s indigenous people.

8. Take a Floatplane Tour

Ketchikan’s vast wilderness offers perfect settings for a floatplane tour. The tour takes you over the thick green forests, abundant water bodies, and scenic coastline. The floatplane tours offer a unique perspective of the town’s natural beauty and are an adventurous way of exploring the region.

Book Your Tour Now

Ketchikan is undoubtedly one of those beautiful Alaskan towns that offer plenty of opportunities for visitors to indulge in various activities. Regardless of whether you’re looking for a city break or an adventure, Ketchikan is the perfect destination that caters to all tastes. Make sure to add these top attractions to your itinerary to make the most of your visit to Ketchikan.