Bears, Totem Poles and Local Beer Alaskan Combo Tour

If you’re heading to Ketchikan and craving a well-rounded taste of Alaska’s wild side, indigenous heritage, and local flavors, the Bears, Totem Poles and Local Beer Alaskan Combo Tour might just be your perfect pick. This 2.5-hour adventure blends wildlife spotting, cultural insights, and a dash of local hospitality into one engaging experience. It’s a tour that feels genuinely authentic, offering a snapshot of what makes Alaska special — from its bears to its native art and beloved brews.

What we love about this experience is how it manages to combine nature, culture, and leisure seamlessly. The chance to see bears in their habitat, explore stunning totem poles, and sip regional craft beers all in one outing makes for a well-rounded excursion. Plus, the tour’s small-group setup (max 11 people) means you’ll get a more personalized, relaxed vibe. The only caveat? The tour is designed for adults (21+) for the beer portion, so it’s not suitable for minors who want to indulge in alcohol.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want an authentic taste of Alaska without sacrificing comfort or variety. Nature lovers, culture buffs, and those looking to unwind with a local beer will find plenty to enjoy here.

Good To Know

• Wildlife Viewing: Prime chance to see bears and bald eagles in their natural environment at Herring Cove.
• Cultural Insight: Discover Tlingit traditions and stories through the impressive totem poles at Saxman Native Village.
• Local Flavors: Enjoy locally brewed Alaskan beer at one of the oldest and most charming bars in Alaska.
• Small Group Experience: With a maximum of 11 travelers, expect a more intimate and engaging tour.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes snacks, bottled water, WiFi, and air-conditioned transport for a relaxed experience.
• Value: At $169 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive mix of wildlife, culture, and leisure in just a few hours.

The Full Breakdown of the Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at 131 Front St, Ketchikan, which is easy to find and near the cruise ship docks. You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle fitted with WiFi—ideal for sharing your photos or checking in with friends. The group size is capped at 11, ensuring a friendly, less crowded environment that encourages interaction and personalized attention.

Herring Cove: The Wildlife Hotspot

Your first stop is Herring Cove, a renowned wildlife viewing area. This spot is famous for seasonal bear sightings, especially during salmon runs when bears come ashore to feast on spawning fish. The experience here is very much dependent on timing—if you’re lucky, you’ll see bears in action, casting shadows against the backdrop of rushing salmon. Reviewers consistently mention Lauren, the guide, as someone who “knows where to find the bears,” making the wildlife spotting both exciting and educational.

Beyond bears, Bald Eagles are common visitors, soaring overhead or perched in trees, adding to the quintessential Alaskan scene. The 30-minute stop includes admission and a chance to soak in the raw beauty of the Alaskan wilderness. The natural setting also offers opportunities for some fantastic photos, especially if you’re into capturing wildlife in their true environment.

Hole In the Wall: Savoring Alaska’s Local Brews

Next, the tour leads to Hole In the Wall, one of Alaska’s oldest bars. This stop is praised for its historic charm—think rustic interiors, tales of old Alaska, and a vibrant atmosphere. Here, you can sample a selection of locally crafted beers, giving you a taste of the state’s brewing scene.

Guests have described the experience as “an iconic Alaskan bar steeped in history,” where you can unwind and share stories with fellow travelers. Since alcohol is only served to those 21 and over, this part of the tour offers a relaxed, social vibe, perfect for beer lovers. The 45-minute visit balances enjoyment with enough time to appreciate the venue without feeling rushed.

Saxman Native Village: Culture and Art

The final stop takes you to Saxman Native Village, a hub of Tlingit culture and art. This visit is a highlight for many, as it offers a chance to see one of the largest collections of authentic totem poles in the world. Guides often share insights into the stories behind each carving, enriching your understanding of Alaska’s Indigenous traditions.

Expect to see totem poles carved with intricate details, each telling stories of ancestors, legends, and cultural identity. Visitors have noted how engaging the guides are—some mention how the experience “helps you understand the art and stories of Alaska’s Indigenous peoples.” The 30-minute stop is compact but packed with cultural significance, making it a meaningful conclusion to your tour.

What’s Included and What to Consider

This tour includes plenty of amenities—snacks, bottled water, and WiFi on board help keep you comfortable and connected. You’ll also enjoy a selection of alcoholic drinks if you’re over 21; non-alcoholic options are available for minors. The tour costs $169, which many find reasonable considering the diverse experiences packed into just over two hours.

Tips & gratuities aren’t included, but with such a small group, tipping guides for their knowledge and hospitality is customary and appreciated.

Timing & Booking

Most travelers book this experience about 137 days in advance, indicating its popularity. The tour runs for approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, making it a great option if you’re short on time but want a rich taste of Ketchikan. Since the start and end points are the same, it’s easy to fit into a day’s schedule, especially around cruise ship timings.

Price & Value

At $169 per person, the tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife, culture, and local experiences. Many reviewers feel it’s worth the cost, especially given the personalized attention, the chance to see bears in their habitat, and the opportunity to learn about native culture—all in a small group setting.

Authentic Experiences Based on Review Insights

One reviewer praised guide Lauren as “knowledgeable and fun,” emphasizing her ability to spot bears and lead visitors into safe wilderness areas. She reportedly took guests into a “wilderness that was not too far of a drive,” making the experience accessible yet still wild enough for a memorable encounter.

Another guest described the trip as “all you can expect and more,” highlighting the authenticity of the bear sightings and the charm of the local bar. The tour’s blend of nature and leisure appears to hit the sweet spot for travelers seeking variety without overpacking their schedule.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This excursion is well-suited for those who want a balanced experience—wildlife enthusiasts eager to see bears in the wild, cultural explorers interested in native art and stories, and travelers wanting to sample local beer. It’s perfect for small groups who appreciate a personal touch and a relaxed pace.

However, since alcohol is only served to those 21+, it’s not ideal for families with minors who want a beer experience. Also, wildlife sightings depend on the season and luck, so patience and realistic expectations are key.

Final Thoughts

The Bears, Totem Poles, and Local Beer Alaskan Combo Tour offers an engaging, well-rounded slice of what makes Ketchikan and Alaska special. You’ll appreciate the chance to see wildlife in their habitat, learn about indigenous traditions, and relax with a locally brewed beer—all in just a few hours. It balances adventure, culture, and leisure, making it a smart choice for a diverse group of travelers.

If you’re after an authentic, small-group experience with plenty of opportunities for great photos, interesting stories, and fun, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially worthwhile if you’re eager to combine nature encounters with cultural insights and a taste of Alaska’s vibrant brewing scene.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate, but only those under 21 will be served non-alcoholic drinks, as alcoholic beverages are only for travelers 21 and older.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops.

What’s the best time to see bears at Herring Cove?
Bears are most commonly seen during salmon runs, which are seasonal. The exact timing can vary, but the tour’s guide Lauren is known for knowing the best spots at the right time.

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi, making the trip comfortable and connected.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

What should I bring?
Bring layers suitable for outdoor weather, camera gear, and a good pair of binoculars if you have them for wildlife viewing.

Are tips included?
No, tips are not included but are appreciated for guides who provide a memorable experience.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. However, mobility considerations depend on the specific areas visited, so check with the provider if needed.

Is this tour available year-round?
The data doesn’t specify seasonal availability, but wildlife sightings and the best viewing times suggest it’s most suitable during salmon runs and warmer months.

This tour offers a well-balanced taste of Alaska’s wilderness, heritage, and hospitality. It’s a fantastic option for those wanting a compact yet enriching experience in Ketchikan, combining stunning scenery, cultural insights, and local flavors in a memorable 2.5-hour adventure.