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Alaska Travel Adventures: Totem Bight & Rainforest Canoe in Juneau - Juneau

Alaska Travel Adventures: Totem Bight & Rainforest Canoe in Juneau

Juneaueasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

3–4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; some walking and paddling required

Overview

Discover the cultural giants of Alaska at Totem Bight and glide across rainforest waters in this memorable guided adventure. Dive into local history and wilderness with expert guides that keep discovery engaging and authentic.

Ketchikan, Alaska

Totem Bight Park & Rainforest Canoe Adventure

4 Hours • Must Be 40lbs or More

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About This Adventure

Embark on a captivating journey through Alaska's cultural heritage! Explore Totem Bight State Historical Park's ancient totem poles, paddle traditional canoes on Lake Harriet Hunt, and savor delicious local snacks. Experience the beauty of the old-growth rainforest with an expert guide, making this adventure both educational and unforgettable.

Uncover the rich cultural history of the Alaska Natives!

Duration

Approximately 4 Hours

About

Alaska Native art and traditions are highlighted in this perfect combination of history and adventure. Travel 10 miles north of Ketchikan to visit Totem Bight State Historical Park, an 11-acre park featuring ancient totem poles set in a lush rainforest. Explore restored and re-carved artifacts along the coastline of the Tongass Narrows and experience the colorful community house, known as a Clan House, before learning how Alaska Natives traveled the long distances of the Southeast Alaska waterways in large, carved canoes. Next, you’ll head to Lake Harriet Hunt for your experience in Native-style canoes on a pristine mountain lake.

At Lake Harriet Hunt, you’ll board your easy-to-paddle, traditional Alaskan canoes, much like the Alaska Natives used to travel the coastal waterways. Your guide will lead you to a camp on shore, where your cook prepares a tasty snack of chowder, smoked salmon, rolls, and wild berry jam. After enjoying your snack, your guide will lead an interpretive nature walk of the old-growth temperate rainforest. Your excursion concludes with a scenic drive back to the pier.

What's Included

Round trip transportation, use of a poncho, life jacket, paddles, and a souvenir button to take home. We’ll provide a snack and beverages including clam chowder, rolls, jam, smoked salmon, crackers, mints, juice, hot chocolate, coffee, and water. Souvenir hats and T-shirts available for purchase.

Additional Information

  • All children must be 40lbs or more.
  • Participants should be prepared for inclement weather and dress in warm layers. Raingear is provided; however, guests are encouraged to bring their own to ensure maximum comfort while on tour.
  • Tour will operate in most weather conditions.
  • Moderate to good physical condition is necessary for participation in this excursion.
  • Children must weigh at least 40 pounds in order to fit into required life jackets while canoeing. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Children 13-17 must have a signed parental consent form to participate in the absence of a parent or guardian.
  • Multiple daily departures late April through mid-October at times to accommodate cruise ship or tour schedules. This tour operates in most weather conditions.

Adventure Tips

Dress in layers

Alaskan weather can change quickly; layering ensures comfort during forest walks and canoeing.

Bring waterproof gear

Rainforest and lake conditions warrant waterproof jackets and shoes to stay dry and comfortable.

Follow guide instructions

Guides provide safety tips and cultural insights; paying attention enhances your experience.

Capture wildlife moments

Bring a camera with zoom, as wildlife sightings like eagles or bears can happen unexpectedly.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bald eagles
  • Black bears

History

The totem poles at Totem Bight are authentic, carved by Tlingit and Haida artists, dating back to the early 1900s.

Conservation

Alaska Travel Adventures promotes Leave No Trace principles, ensuring minimal impact on the pristine rainforest environment.

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Adventure Hotspots in Juneau

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Waterproof jacket

Essential

Keeps you dry during rainforest rain and lake spray, essential for comfort and safety.

all specific

Hiking shoes or waterproof boots

Essential

Provides necessary grip and support for forest pathways and uneven terrain.

all specific

Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)

Shield yourself from UV rays during long summer days on the water and forest walks.

summer specific

Camera/binoculars

Captures wildlife sightings and scenic views along your journey.

all specific