Bears, Totem Poles and Local Beer Alaskan Combo Tour

If you’re heading to Ketchikan and want a well-rounded taste of what Alaska has to offer, this Bears, Totem Poles, and Local Beer tour might just be worth your time. It’s a curated experience that promises to mix wildlife encounters, native culture, and a little bit of local flavor all in one go. While it’s not a day-long extravaganza, the 2.5-hour journey covers a lot, and the reviews suggest it’s a memorable way to spend part of your shore time in Ketchikan.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances wildlife viewing with cultural insights. Watching bears fish for salmon at Herring Cove is a true highlight, especially with the chance to see bald eagles too. Plus, the visit to Saxman Native Village lets you see some impressive totem poles and learn about the Tlingit people’s stories, which adds depth to the experience. The stop at a historic Alaskan bar for some local beer is a nice way to unwind at the end.

One thing to keep in mind is that the beer tasting part is only for those 21 and over, so if you’re traveling with minors, they’ll be served non-alcoholic drinks. Also, for wildlife lovers, the bear sightings depend on the season and luck, so while the guides know where to look, nature doesn’t always cooperate. This tour is best suited for travelers looking for a mix of wildlife, culture, and a taste of local life in a manageable timeframe.

All in all, this tour offers a straightforward, engaging way to experience some of Ketchikan’s highlights without a full-day commitment. Perfect if you want a taste of Alaska’s wilderness and culture with a little leisure thrown in.

Key Points

• Wildlife sightings at Herring Cove are a major draw, especially bears and bald eagles.
• The cultural experience at Saxman Native Village is authentic and educational.
• Local beer tasting at one of Alaska’s oldest bars provides a relaxing finish.
• Short duration makes it a perfect addition to a port day or a busy itinerary.
• The price of $169 offers access to wildlife, culture, and drinks, which many travelers find reasonable.
• Small group size (max 11 travelers) means more personalized attention and better chances for sightings.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Stop 1: Herring Cove — Wildlife at Its Best

The journey kicks off at Herring Cove, which is renowned for its seasonal bear sightings. This spot has earned its reputation because bears often appear here to fish for salmon swimming upstream. Watching these large animals in their natural environment is a special sight, especially for wildlife enthusiasts. If you’re lucky, you might also spot bald eagles perched nearby, eager to snatch a fish or just taking in the view.

From reviews, it’s clear that Lauren, the guide, is particularly good at finding the bears — she’s described as knowledgeable and fun. She leads visitors into areas that are considered safe for wildlife viewing yet close enough for great photos and memorable moments. This stop typically lasts about 30 minutes — enough to enjoy the scenery and wildlife without feeling rushed.

Stop 2: Hole In the Wall — Cheers to Local Flavors

Next, the tour takes you to an iconic Alaskan bar, one of the oldest in the state. It’s a place rich in history, with a cozy atmosphere that embodies the spirit of the Last Frontier. Here, you’ll sample a selection of locally crafted Alaskan brews, which is a highlight for beer lovers. This stop lasts approximately 45 minutes, giving you plenty of time to relax, chat with fellow travelers, and soak in the ambiance.

The bar’s charm lies in its authenticity — it’s a venue that has seen generations of Alaskans pass through, making it a great spot to get a taste of local life. Keep in mind, you need to be 21 or older with valid ID to partake in the beer tasting, so this isn’t a family-friendly component if you’re traveling with minors. However, non-alcoholic drinks are available for younger guests, making it accessible for most.

Stop 3: Saxman Native Village — Native Culture and Totem Poles

The final stop takes you to Saxman Native Village, where the focus shifts to Alaska’s indigenous culture. This is a highlight for many, as it features one of the largest collections of authentic totem poles in the world. The craftsmanship and storytelling behind each pole are truly impressive; they serve as visual narratives of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples.

You’ll have about 30 minutes here to walk among the totem poles, learn about their meanings, and gain insight into native art and traditions. It’s a culturally enriching experience that adds a lot of context to your Alaska visit. Visitors often mention how engaging and educational this part of the tour is, making it a worthwhile stop.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour hits all the right marks by including snacks, bottled water, WiFi on board, and alcoholic beverages (for those 21+). These perks make the experience comfortable and convenient, especially since it’s a relatively short excursion. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures you stay comfortable between stops, and WiFi lets you share photos or check your messages.

On the flip side, tips and gratuities are not included, which is common but worth keeping in mind. Also, the tour is designed for most travelers, with confirmation received at booking, and it’s accessible via public transportation nearby. The maximum group size of 11 travelers means a more personalized experience, which many appreciate.

Is It Good Value?

At $169 per person, the tour offers a well-rounded mix of wildlife, culture, and local indulgence. For the price, you get a well-organized itinerary, experienced guides, transportation, and the chance to see Alaska’s famous bears and totem poles — all in under three hours. Given that wildlife sightings can be unpredictable, many find the tour’s value in the combination of reliable guides, curated stops, and the overall experience, which is more meaningful than just ticking off sights.

What Reviewers Say

The single published review is glowing, with the person saying, “Choose this tour!! Lauren is knowledgeable and fun!!” and describing the experience as “more than expected,” with a focus on the wilderness and bear sightings. This suggests that the guide’s expertise and personality significantly enhance the experience.

Practical Tips

• Remember, must be 21+ to drink alcohol; minors will be served non-alcoholic drinks.
• Wear comfortable layers and shoes suitable for walking and outdoor wildlife viewing.
• Be prepared for potential weather changes — Alaska can be cool and damp, even in summer.
• Bring your camera — the scenery and wildlife are photo-worthy.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a short but immersive window into Alaska’s wildlife and native culture. It’s suited for those who enjoy wildlife spotting, especially bears and eagles, and appreciate a bit of history and artistry. It’s not a full-day deep dive but a well-balanced sampler that fits comfortably into a port day.

People who prefer a small-group feel with personal attention will especially enjoy the limited group size. If you’re curious about native traditions and want to see Alaska’s wilderness in a relatively compact trip, this tour is likely to satisfy.

All in all, the Bears, Totem Poles, and Local Beer Alaskan Combo Tour offers a practical, engaging way to experience some of Ketchikan’s best features. It’s a good value for those who want a taste of wildlife, culture, and local flavor without dedicating an entire day. The combination of wildlife sightings, culturally significant sites, and a cozy local bar makes this a well-rounded choice, especially with such positive reviews highlighting the guide’s expertise and the stunning views.

While it’s not a guaranteed wildlife safari, the tour’s thoughtful design and small group size increase your chances of seeing bears and eagles, making it a memorable addition to your Alaska trip. If you’re after a manageable, authentic, and enjoyable experience, this tour could be just what you need.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers interested in wildlife?
Absolutely. The Herring Cove stop is specifically designed for wildlife viewing, especially bears and bald eagles, and guides know where to find them.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, fitting comfortably into a port day.

Do I need to be 21 to join?
You need to be 21+ with valid photo ID to participate in the beer tasting part of the tour. Minors will be served non-alcoholic drinks.

What is included in the tour?
Snacks, bottled water, WiFi on the vehicle, and alcoholic beverages (for 21+) are included. The tour also includes transportation and guided visits.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities and variable weather. Shoes suitable for walking are recommended.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While suitable for most travelers, the beer tasting is only for adults. Minors can enjoy the wildlife and cultural stops, but the cultural experience may vary depending on their interest level.

If you’re visiting Ketchikan and want a compact, enjoyable taste of Alaska’s wonders, this tour is a solid choice. It combines the thrill of wildlife, the beauty of native art, and a bit of local crafting — all in a friendly, accessible package.