Eagles, Raptors & Rainforest Experience

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

WHAT YOU VISIT

Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary
Located just eight miles from Ketchikan in scenic Herring Cove, the 40-acre Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary is a private reserve home to abundant bird and animal life. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by a naturalist guide who will lead you on a half-mile trail walk through towering spruce, hemlock and cedar trees. Your walk ends at the 1,500-square-foot flight auditorium for a fully-narrated presentation and a chance to see birds in flight. Then, you'll come face-to-face with a bald eagle and the opportunity to photograph amazing birds of prey up close.

Herring Bay Lumber Company Saw Mill
Set within the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary just steps away from the trailhead, the historic saw mill is home to the first Tsimshian totem pole park in the country with Tsimshian-carved totem poles, an impressive 40-foot totem and 13 poles carved by the same artist. Here you can see the logging machinery that fueled Ketchikan's economy between the 50s and 90s and watch a blacksmith at work.

PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
Your guide will keep a watchful eye to help you spot as many different animals during the hike. During the spawning season (mid-July through September), 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.

SHOPPING
Browse for that perfect memento of your visit with a stop at the Herring Bay Lumber Company Saw Mill General Store.

WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
A delightful eight-mile drive takes you through the lush temperate rainforest along the coastline bordering the Tongass Narrows and George Inlet.

Special Notes:

Wear comfortable walking shoes and warm clothing. This tour operates in all weather conditions. Rain ponchos available for purchase. Participants should be able to cover 1/2 mile of terrain. A portion of proceeds go to the Alaska Raptor Center, a non-profit organization, for the rehabilitation of wild birds, education, and research.