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The Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary is a 40-acre private preserve of temperate rainforest bordering the Tongass National Forest. Take a guided nature walk exploring the wildlife and ecology of the preserve. Visit a historic sawmill, and explore an authentic totem park.
Here’s how your rainforest exploration will surprise and delight you.
You’ll start out with a scenic eight-mile coastal drive to rustic Herring Cove and the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary. The sanctuary is a temperate rainforest, nestled into the Tongass National Forest. When you arrive, a naturalist guide will be on hand to take you on a 0.75 mile guided rainforest exploration along an improved trail amongst stands of hemlock, spruce and cedar trees. The forest floor is covered with mosses, wild flowers and a variety of berries. Your guide will lead you to a protected open estuary where you follow Herring Creek along an elevated wooden boardwalk overlooking grassy wetlands.
During the seasonal spawning season, bears and seals feed on salmon in Herring Creek. Bald eagles and other birds wait for scraps in the estuary. Sitka black tail deer, mink and marten also frequent the area. Weather, tides, and seasonal ecosystem changes result in varying levels and type of wildlife activity.
Everything here is alive with color and cultural history.
After your trail walk your opportunity to learn about the natural history, wildlife and cultural traditions in the region continues. You’ll be guided through the historic Herring Bay Lumber Company sawmill, seeing saws and machinery that powered this mill. Explore the first Tsimshian totem pole park in the country with its impressive 40-foot totem and 17 poles carved by the same artist. Before your return to town visit the General Store and pick up a souvenir of your uniquely Alaskan experience.
Please Note: This tour operates in all weather conditions.
2.75 hours
Comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing and waterproof jacket are recommended
Shopping opportunities are available at the General Store
Bring cash or credit card
Difficulty Level: Moderate
This experience includes walking for short distances over gently sloping terrain, possibly with a few steps or slight inclines. The path is a lightly graveled trail. Please expect to be on your feet (either standing or walking) for the entirety of your tour. Participants should be able to move into and out of buses or vans.
In the heart of the Tongass National Forest lies Kawanti Adventures’ very own Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary. The sanctuary is known for its forest trails and boardwalk system that leads to an open estuary complete with a creek running out to the famous Herring Cove. The sanctuary is a hot spot for all wildlife, but specifically bald eagles and black bear. You will also find our old historic sawmill and carving center, complete with 17 original Alaskan Native totem poles. Visit our gift shop, grab a freshly brewed coffee, or specialty Alaskan beer, and explore everything the sanctuary has to offer!
Excellent wildlife tour, from start to finish! Bus drivers were like guides, sharing information during our drive. Our wildlife guide, Elisabeth, was engaging, enthusiastic, and super well-informed. I especially enjoyed learning about Banana Slugs, and am proud to be the first guest who took the slug challenge!
Elisabeth S.
- 2024
Loved the tour. We were able to see several eagles and bears. We also enjoyed seeing totem poles being made. Our tour guide, Kristen, was extremely knowledgeable and kind. She gave a lot of history and facts about the rainforest and plants. You could tell how much she loves Alaska and the wildlife. Highly recommend!
Maegan H.
- 2024
Absolutely AMAZING! My daughter spotted the first bear while we were walking on the bridge / walkway and we got to watch two bears play in the creek! The rainforest is stunning. We really enjoyed the tour!
Denise R.
- 2024
Want a well curated sample of Ketchikan rainforest life? Then do this walking tour stat! Props to our young guide Drew, she was the right amount of professional, informed, engaging and personable. Top notch experience! Bears, eagles, slugs, and zip liners in the sky! Real Talk w a talented totem pole craftsman!
Cindy C.
- 2024
What an incredible adventure! Kristin was AMAZING!! She was super knowledgeable, very friendly, hilarious, and accommodating to all of us hiking at different speeds. Would Highly recommend!
Marco S.
- 2024
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