A sign in front of a tree

Ketchikan - Potlatch City Tour with Totem Bight State Park

Experience sightseeing in the beautiful coastal community of Ketchikan on a day tour complete with historic sites and city highlights.

  • Hear about the fascinating tales behind many of the totem poles
  • Visit the mysterious Ceremonial Tribal House
  • Learn about Alaska Native American culture
  • Enjoy the flora and fauna of this spectacular location

  • Difficulty level

    Level 2: Moderate - some mobility needed

  • Duration

    3 hours

  • Min. passengers

    15

  • Booking code

    A-KTN2

  • From

    62 €

  • Please note

    Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers.

Leaving the city behind, you will proceed to Totem Bight State Park. Upon arrival, your guide describes the flora and fauna as you walk along a winding trail and through a forest of mighty hemlock before arriving at an old Native American campsite. Here, you will discover an abundance of colourful totem poles, each representing a fascinating tale. Next, you will learn about primitive Alaskan native culture during a stop at the mysterious Ceremonial Tribal House located in the park.

Experience Potlatch Totem Park, which is located on historic native Tlingit fishing grounds along the shores of the Tongass Narrows. View multiple houses, totem poles and panels while appreciating the beauty of smoothly carved wood and hearing the legends behind the designs.

Visit the carving studio and learn about the ancient technique. Potlatch Totem Park is also home to an antique car collection, featuring a 1934 Ford Coupe and 1924 Stanley Steamer, as well as a display of rare antique firearms.

Your visit concludes at the Totem Trading Company, where you can enjoy a light snack. Take a scenic drive through the historic downtown area of Ketchikan, where the waterfront comes alive with bustling float planes and cruise ships. Wrap up your guided tour with a drive past City Park, Nathan Jackson's Thundering Wings and Dolly's House located in the historic red light district before returning to your ship.

  • Graffiti on a brick building
  • A boat is docked in front of a house
    • Photo: Bernard Spragg

Practical information

  • Language: English
  • Included: Light snack at Potlatch Totem Park
  • Remarks: Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers.
  • Wheelchair accessible: Yes, if traveling with a companion. Be aware that each location is hard-packed dirt and gravel, which may make it difficult for wheelchairs.