Rainforest Sanctuary Walk, Totems, Eagles & Crab Feast

Description

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

Get a taste of what makes Alaska such an awesome place to visit all on one fascinating tour! Take a walk through the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary with a knowledgeable guide for a chance to see salmon, black bears and bald eagles within a protected rainforest setting. Then sightsee to the rustic George Inlet Lodge for a delicious Dungeness crab feast.

This moderate half-day tour starts with a delightful coastal drive from charming Ketchikan to a private reserve located at scenic Herring Cove. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by your naturalist guide who will lead you on an informative walking tour that immerses you in the color green!

You'll be surrounded by towering spruce, hemlock and cedar trees, enchanted by dense fern, rhododendron, and huckleberry shrubs, and intrigued by the lush carpet of moss and trilliums that transform the forest floor into an enchanting miniature garden. With viewing areas strategically placed along the trail, you'll have ample opportunity to soak it all in. As the trail opens onto a protected estuary, you'll follow an elevated wooden boardwalk overlooking grassy wetlands and streams that are home to major salmon runs. 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, marten and wolf also frequent the area, with seasonal ecosystem changes resulting in varying levels of wildlife activity. Your guide will keep a watchful eye to help you spot as many different animals as possible.

Following these great photo opportunities, you will be guided through the historic Herring Bay Lumber Company saw mill, established by legendary pioneer Ben Fleenor. Explore the on-site totem park and interpretive displays and browse in the General Store.

Later, enjoy the scenic drive to the rustic yet elegant George Inlet Lodge for a feast of all-you-can-eat succulent Dungeness crab with butter! Rounding out the menu are a fresh salad and a scrumptious blueberry cheesecake dessert and it's all topped off with tall tales and a rowdy Crab Shell Stacking Competition.

The scenic return drive to your ship provides additional opportunities to soak up the scenic landscape and to learn intriguing details about the history, native culture and pristine habitat of picturesque Ketchikan.

Special Notes:

Participants should be able to cover 1/2 mile of terrain. Wildlife sightings are common but not guaranteed. Dress warmly in layers and wear comfortable shoes with good traction. Vegetarian and non-crab options may be substituted. There are numerous steps to negotiate at the lodge, but van rides are available to those who want to eliminate this portion. Tour order may vary. Tour operates in all weather conditions. Rain ponchos are available for purchase.

Meal: All-you-can-eat Dungeness crab, salad and cheesecake with blueberry topping. Complimentary soda, coffee and tea. One glass of beer or wine is complimentary; additional glasses are available at additional cost.

Unaccompanied Minor Policy: Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.