Herring Cove
Witness bears fishing for salmon, eagles soaring, and the vibrant Alaskan wilderness at Herring Cove.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak salmon run season
Herring Cove
Best Time
Peak salmon run season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness bears fishing for salmon, eagles soaring, and the vibrant Alaskan wilderness at Herring Cove.
"Nature is magical and Alaska nature at Herring Cove is some of the best."
🎯 Rent a Car for Flexibility
Save money and explore more by renting a car in Ketchikan.
🐻 Be Patient for Bear Sightings
Bear sightings are not guaranteed; timing during salmon runs is key.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bear Watching
Along the creek and marshy areas
Witness bears catching salmon during their runs. A truly wild Alaskan experience!
Bald Eagle Spotting
Trees surrounding the cove
Majestic bald eagles are a common sight, soaring and perching in the trees.
Salmon Runs
The creek and surrounding waters
See schools of salmon making their way upstream, a vital part of the ecosystem.
Totem Pole Carving Demonstration
Workshop area
Learn about the art of totem pole carving from local artisans.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Bear Sightings
Transportation Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Rent a Car for Flexibility
Save money and explore more by renting a car in Ketchikan.
🐻 Be Patient for Bear Sightings
Bear sightings are not guaranteed; timing during salmon runs is key.
🚶♀️ Explore the Boardwalk
Walk the raised walkway for great views of the marsh and creek.
🦅 Look for Eagles
Bald eagles are frequently seen perched in the trees.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Rent a Car for Flexibility
Save money and explore more by renting a car in Ketchikan.
🐻 Be Patient for Bear Sightings
Bear sightings are not guaranteed; timing during salmon runs is key.
🚶♀️ Explore the Boardwalk
Walk the raised walkway for great views of the marsh and creek.
🦅 Look for Eagles
Bald eagles are frequently seen perched in the trees.
🍓 Try Wild Berries
Sample local berries if in season and recommended by guides.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Herring Cove for its incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, especially during the salmon runs when bears and eagles are abundant. The natural beauty and the chance to witness the ecosystem in action are highlights. Some visitors note that bear sightings are not guaranteed and depend heavily on timing.
"Took a tour with Aurora Birds and Bears. Stopped at Herring Cove trying to spot one. We saw bear scat and bluejays but no bears there. Rich (Windy) took us around looking for bald eagles (which we saw), bears (which we didn't, except a flash into the woods which we think was a bear). According to Windy, this is the spot to go when the salmon are running to see bears. We enjoyed seeing the bulejays dart down to eat some bread or crackers, whatever a lady there was feeding them. We enjoyed trying but we were just a little early in the season or just not there at the right time. We stopped coming from the ship terminal and then going back but...no bears."
Larry Manz
"The best attraction in Ketchikan. Rent a car from Alaskan car rentals and drive there with your group and to other spots. You will save a lot of $$$ and be able to go to more places than the $160 p/p tours go to. My car rental was $120 for the day and they dropped and picked up right at the ship."
Jrand Mdh
"We came here on a trip organised by our cruise ship. The guide was really knowledgeable and showed us through the forest pointing out lots of flora and fauna, we tried some berries that she recommended which were great and showed us all sorts of bugs and slugs, it really was good.
As we left the forest we walked onto a raised walkway which was above the marshy type land and the creek. Whilst were were not guaranteed to see bears, we were very lucky to see a couple, and one which caught and ate a fish whilst we watched.
This walkway led to a workshop where there was someone who was carving a totem pole and he talked us through the process whilst his squirrel friend was watching & being fed, so cute.
The gift shop was excellent, we don't usually buy things, but did pick up a couple of things that we couldn't resist.
Perfect end to our holiday."
Sarah Redfearn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Herring Cove is a short drive from Ketchikan. Renting a car is a popular and cost-effective option, offering flexibility to explore at your own pace. Alternatively, many cruise ship tours include a stop at Herring Cove.
Public transportation options directly to Herring Cove are limited. Renting a car or booking a guided tour are the most common ways to reach the area.
Herring Cove is located a few miles outside of Ketchikan, making it an easy drive of about 15-20 minutes.
While possible, biking to Herring Cove may involve navigating some roads with traffic. The Herring Cove Bike Trail is mentioned, suggesting dedicated cycling paths may exist in the broader area.
Some cruise lines offer specific excursions to Herring Cove. For independent travelers, car rental is generally recommended over relying on public shuttles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Herring Cove itself does not typically have an entrance fee. Access is generally free, especially when visiting independently.
No advance booking is required for general access to Herring Cove. If you are joining a specific tour or activity, booking in advance may be necessary.
Herring Cove is an outdoor natural area and is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no set operating hours.
While generally open, it's advisable to be mindful of wildlife and follow any posted guidelines. During peak salmon runs, it can get busy.
Fishing may be permitted in designated areas, but regulations can vary. It's best to check local fishing licenses and rules before attempting to fish.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Herring Cove is renowned for its potential to see black bears during salmon runs, bald eagles, seals, and various bird species. You might also spot marine life in the waters.
The prime time for bear sightings is during the salmon runs, which typically occur from July through September.
Yes, many guided tours from Ketchikan visit Herring Cove, often focusing on wildlife viewing and local flora and fauna.
Dress in layers suitable for coastal Alaskan weather, which can be unpredictable. Waterproof outerwear and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
There are walking paths and a raised boardwalk around Herring Cove, offering opportunities for easy exploration and wildlife viewing. The Herring Cove Hike is a keyword, suggesting trails exist.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of wildlife like bears and eagles, the scenic coastal landscape, and the salmon runs. The totem pole carving is also a great subject.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for wildlife photography. A wide-angle lens can capture the scenic beauty of the cove.
Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife, especially bears. Follow the guidance of tour guides or park officials.
Drone usage may be restricted in natural areas to protect wildlife. It's essential to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Early morning and late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and potentially more active wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a family-friendly tour that includes knowledgeable guides who can engage children with stories about local flora, fauna, and indigenous culture.
🎣 Anglers and Fishermen
If you're planning to fish, ensure you have the necessary fishing licenses and are aware of local regulations. The presence of bears during salmon runs means anglers should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.
📸 Nature Photographers
Bring a telephoto lens for wildlife shots and a wide-angle lens for the scenic coastal landscapes. Be prepared for varying weather conditions by protecting your gear. Remember to maintain a respectful distance from wildlife to ensure both your safety and the animals' well-being.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Viewing at Herring Cove
Beyond bears, the area is a haven for bald eagles, often seen perched in the tall trees or soaring overhead. You might also spot seals in the cove's waters and a variety of seabirds. The ecosystem is rich, and observing these animals in their natural habitat is a truly memorable Alaskan experience.
Remember to always maintain a safe distance from wildlife and never feed the animals. Following the advice of local guides or park rangers is crucial for both your safety and the well-being of the animals.
Exploring the Herring Cove Area
For those interested in local culture and art, a totem pole carving demonstration is often available. Here, you can witness skilled artisans at work, learning about the history and significance of this traditional art form.
Many visitors find that renting a car from Ketchikan provides the most freedom to explore Herring Cove and other nearby attractions at their own pace, often proving more economical than organized tours.
Herring Cove Bike Trail
For cyclists, it's advisable to research the trail conditions and accessibility beforehand. Combining a bike ride with wildlife viewing or exploring the local landscape can make for a fulfilling day trip.
Consider checking with local bike rental shops in Ketchikan for information on trail maps and bike availability if you plan to cycle to Herring Cove.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit