Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary
Explore a vibrant rainforest, witness bears fishing, and connect with Tlingit culture at this unique Alaskan sanctuary.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak salmon run & bear activity
Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary
Best Time
Peak salmon run & bear activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a vibrant rainforest, witness bears fishing, and connect with Tlingit culture at this unique Alaskan sanctuary.
"Seeing bears in their natural setting was such an emotional experience for me. Absolutely beautiful and breathtaking scenery."
Book Tours in Advance
Popular tours, especially bear viewing, fill up quickly. Book ahead to secure your spot! :admission_tickets:
Dress for Wet Weather
Waterproof layers and sturdy, non-slip shoes are essential for comfort and safety on slippery boardwalks. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bear Viewing Expeditions
Designated viewing areas
Witness black bears in their natural habitat, often seen fishing for salmon. An emotional and unforgettable experience.
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Majestic Raptor Encounters
Raptor Center
See rescued eagles, owls, and other birds of prey up close. Learn about their rehabilitation and importance in the ecosystem.
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Ancient Totem Poles
Totem display and carving workshop
Explore a collection of intricately carved totem poles and witness local artists at work, learning about Tlingit culture.
Lush Rainforest Trails
Boardwalks and forest paths
Wander through a vibrant temperate rainforest, enjoying the unique flora and fauna with knowledgeable guides.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Wildlife
Embrace the Rainforest Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tours in Advance
Popular tours, especially bear viewing, fill up quickly. Book ahead to secure your spot! :admission_tickets:
Dress for Wet Weather
Waterproof layers and sturdy, non-slip shoes are essential for comfort and safety on slippery boardwalks. :athletic_shoe:
Listen to Your Guides
Guides are experts at spotting wildlife and ensuring your safety. Follow their instructions closely.
Respect the Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from animals and avoid feeding them. Observe them quietly in their natural habitat.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tours in Advance
Popular tours, especially bear viewing, fill up quickly. Book ahead to secure your spot! :admission_tickets:
Dress for Wet Weather
Waterproof layers and sturdy, non-slip shoes are essential for comfort and safety on slippery boardwalks. :athletic_shoe:
Listen to Your Guides
Guides are experts at spotting wildlife and ensuring your safety. Follow their instructions closely.
Respect the Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from animals and avoid feeding them. Observe them quietly in their natural habitat.
Engage with Artists
Ask respectful questions about totem carving, but avoid discussing prices to ensure a comfortable atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking scenery and the emotional experience of seeing bears in their natural habitat. Knowledgeable and passionate guides enhance the educational value of the tours, particularly regarding wildlife and local culture. While the boardwalks are generally good, they can be slippery. Some guests felt the interaction with totem artists could be more comfortable.
"Absolutely beautiful and breathtaking scenery, seeing bears in their natural setting was such an emotional experience for me. I wish we could’ve stayed longer. We had few amazing spotters (tourists) in our group that made it much easier to photograph the bears. Amy our tour guide well informed, and such a good soul. Boardwalk was overall in good shape, a bit slippery in the rain despite having hiking boots on. They had donut and panini in the cafe, both were ok.
I have so much love and respect for native art and cherish every opportunity to learn more. when we were getting prepped by guides to meet native totem carving artist on site, we were told ask many questions but not to talk about the price of items which makes sense. However I thought the artist was not at all comfortable sitting there and meeting tourists. This created heavy atmosphere. Please do your artist and tourist a favor and don’t make him sit there, I would be happier seeing him working on his craft and a brochure to read all about history of totem pole art."
Ania N
"We had an awesome tour with guides Katie and Ella on Labor Day! We had wildlife sightings from the moment we pulled up to the parking lot with a deer, mother black bear and cub walking by. Our guides did a great job getting us around safely to see bears fishing for salmon and telling us about the area. It is a truly beautiful nature preserve. They have many totem poles to see and learn about, and meeting the local artists was also a special surprise. We highly recommend the experience and hope to get the opportunity to visit again."
Zachary Barham
"Just amazing. Dani our guide was fantastic. Very informative and such a lovely style. We saw 2 mother black bears both with 2 cubs. Plus 2 separate sightings of individual bears. And a bald eagle. What a brilliant day. Definitely recommend."
Amanda Aldridge
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary is typically accessed via guided tours from Ketchikan. Many cruise lines offer excursions that include transportation to the sanctuary. If you're not on a cruise, local tour operators in Ketchikan provide transport.
Most visitors arrive via organized tours from Ketchikan, which usually include transportation. It's best to confirm with your tour provider when booking.
The sanctuary is located in a remote rainforest area and is not typically accessible by private vehicle. Guided tours are the standard way to visit.
Independent travelers can book tours directly with local Ketchikan tour operators who specialize in rainforest and wildlife excursions.
Travel time can vary depending on the tour and mode of transport, but it's generally a short drive or boat ride from Ketchikan.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, entry is typically through a guided tour. It's highly recommended to book your tour in advance, especially during peak season.
The sanctuary operates seasonally, usually aligned with the cruise ship season. Hours are dependent on tour schedules, so check with your tour operator.
Costs vary depending on the tour operator and the type of experience (e.g., bear viewing, general rainforest tour). Expect prices to range from $100-$200+ per person.
While some tours might have last-minute availability, booking in advance is strongly advised to guarantee your spot, especially for popular wildlife viewing tours.
Discounts are not commonly advertised, but booking as part of a cruise package or looking for early bird specials might offer savings.
🎫 🐻 Wildlife Viewing
You have a good chance of seeing black bears, bald eagles, and various other birds. Deer are also commonly spotted. +1
The best time for bear sightings is during the salmon spawning season, typically from late July through September.
Guides maintain a safe and respectful distance to ensure both visitor and animal safety. You'll have excellent viewing opportunities from designated platforms.
While the sanctuary is a prime habitat, wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. However, guides are skilled at finding animals.
Always follow your guide's instructions. Stay calm, do not approach the bear, and avoid making loud noises or sudden movements.
🎫 🌳 Rainforest Experience
It's a beautiful temperate rainforest with lush vegetation, towering trees, and well-maintained boardwalks that allow you to explore the ecosystem.
Yes, guided walks are a highlight, with knowledgeable guides sharing insights about the flora, fauna, and local culture. +1
Wear comfortable, waterproof clothing and sturdy, non-slip shoes. Layers are recommended as the weather can change quickly.
The sanctuary features raised boardwalks, which generally improve accessibility. However, some areas might have uneven terrain. It's best to inquire with your tour operator about specific accessibility.
You'll see a variety of temperate rainforest species, including Sitka spruce, Western hemlock, and moss-draped trees, creating a truly immersive natural environment.
🎫 🎨 Culture & Art
The totem poles represent the rich cultural heritage of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples of Southeast Alaska, often depicting family histories and legends.
Yes, the sanctuary often hosts local artists who demonstrate their craft. It's a great opportunity to learn about traditional carving techniques. +1
It's respectful to ask thoughtful questions about their art and culture, but avoid discussing prices directly with the artist.
Some tours may include demonstrations or displays related to local Alaskan Native cultures, such as blacksmithing or other traditional crafts.
The sanctuary provides an excellent introduction. For deeper dives, consider visiting local museums or cultural centers in Ketchikan.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Guides are often adept at engaging younger visitors with interesting facts and stories about the wildlife and rainforest. 🚢 Cruise Ship Passengers
+1 Many cruise lines offer direct tours that include transportation to and from the port, making it a convenient option. These tours often focus on the highlights, such as bear viewing and totem pole exploration, providing a comprehensive experience within a limited timeframe. +1 Booking through your cruise line ensures seamless logistics, but independent booking with local operators can sometimes offer more flexibility. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The majestic bald eagles and the lush, moss-covered rainforest scenery also provide stunning subjects. Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic and beautiful shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Viewing: Bears and Eagles
Beyond bears, the sanctuary is also a haven for bald eagles. Seeing these iconic birds soaring overhead or perched in the towering trees is another common and breathtaking sight.
Pro Tip: Early mornings and late afternoons are generally considered prime times for wildlife activity, as animals are often more active during these cooler parts of the day.
Exploring the Rainforest Ecosystem
Guided tours are highly recommended to fully appreciate the sanctuary. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating insights into the unique flora and fauna, explaining the interconnectedness of this vital ecosystem.
What to Wear: Given the rainforest environment, it's crucial to be prepared for moisture. Waterproof outer layers and sturdy, non-slip footwear are essential, as the boardwalks can become slippery, especially after rain.
Cultural Immersion: Totem Art and Heritage
Visitors can often witness local artists at work, demonstrating the traditional techniques of totem carving. This provides a rare glimpse into a living art form passed down through generations.
Cultural Etiquette: When interacting with artists, it's advised to focus on learning about their craft and the cultural context rather than inquiring about prices. This approach fosters a more respectful and meaningful exchange.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit