Ketchikan - Eagles, Raptors & Rainforest Experience

Join one of our naturalists for a guided trail walk in search of wildlife in their natural rainforest habitat. Experience Alaska’s newest raptor presentation and exhibit, including close-up view of a bald eagle, and explore a historic sawmill, blacksmith shop, and totem garden.

Your tour begins with a scenic coastal drive from Ketchikan to a private 40-acre reserve located in scenic Herring Cove. On arrival, you are greeted by a naturalist guide who will lead you on an informative one-kilometre trail walk surrounded by towering spruce, hemlock and cedar trees. During the spawning season, bears and seals feed on salmon in Eagle Creek and bald eagles and other birds wait for scraps in the estuary. Sitka black tail deer, mink, and marten also frequent the area. Seasonal ecosystem changes result in varying levels of wildlife activity. Your guide will keep a watchful eye to help you spot as many different animals as possible.

After some great photo opportunities, you are guided to the custom-built flight auditorium, a highlight of your visit to the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary. Our partnership with the Alaska Raptor Centre allows us to share a unique experience. During the 30-minute, fully-narrated presentation, a handler from the Alaska Raptor Centre will share the unique physical and behavioural adaptations of the birds while showcasing their natural behaviours. Bird watchers and nature lovers will be in awe. Photographers can photograph flying birds within close proximity. Next a live bald eagle is presented. Thanks to tireless recovery efforts by organizations like the Alaska Raptor Centre, this regal bird is no longer endangered.

After the presentation, you will have free time to explore the historic Herring Bay Lumber Company Saw Mill, the totem garden with its impressive 12 m high totem and first Tsimshian totem pole park in the USA. Thirteen totem poles are displayed here, the most by one artist at any one location. Also see a blacksmith at work and enjoy complimentary refreshments while browsing in the general store.

A portion of proceeds go to the Alaska Raptor Centre, a non-profit organization, for the rehabilitation of wild birds, education, and research

Practical information:

• Language: English
• Minimum pax: 6
• Remarks/requirements: Wear comfortable walking shoes and warm clothing. This tour operates in all weather conditions. Rain ponchos provided, if needed.
• Wheelchair accessible: No