Totems, City & Wildlife by Cable Car Trolley

Our review of the Totems, City & Wildlife by Cable Car Trolley offers a practical look at this popular excursion—one many travelers consider a highlight of their Alaskan cruise or visit. If you’re curious about native culture, eager to see local wildlife, and enjoy a scenic ride, this tour might be right up your alley.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its combination of guided storytelling and authentic sights—from the impressive totem poles of Saxman Native Village to the chance of spotting bears and eagles at Herring Cove. Plus, the inclusion of park admission fees streamlines the visit, making it a reasonably priced way to see a lot in just a couple of hours.

That said, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. Some reviews mention unexpected issues like the trolley vehicle being out of service or challenging start-point directions. Also, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed—nature keeps her secrets! This tour suits travelers who want a well-rounded introduction to Ketchikan’s cultural and natural highlights without overextending their schedule.

This tour is best suited for cruise passengers, families, or anyone wanting a guided, scenic overview with local flavor. It’s a good choice if you prefer small-group attention and a narrative-driven experience but are willing to accept some variability in wildlife sightings.

Key Points

• Combines cultural insights with wildlife viewing in a short, approximately two-hour experience
• Includes admission fees for Saxman Native Village and Herring Cove, simplifying logistics
• Guided with enthusiasm and knowledge, making the history and wildlife engaging
• Transportation via open-air trolley offers a fun, relaxed way to see the sights
• Wildlife sightings are possible but not guaranteed, depending on the season and luck
• Be aware of potential start-point confusion and vehicle issues, as some reviews mention

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Saxman Native Village — A Living Museum of Totem Poles

The tour kicks off at Saxman Native Village, home to the world’s largest collection of authentic Native totem poles. You’ll find the totem poles intriguing, each telling a story or legend that connects the present to indigenous traditions. The guides do a good job explaining the significance of these carvings, which helps give depth to what otherwise might seem just art.

An added highlight here is observing carvers at work, which isn’t just a photo opportunity but a chance to appreciate the skill and patience involved. Many visitors have appreciated the storytelling aspect—one reviewer noted, “Bruce gave my husband and me an amazing tour. He had tons of facts about the different things we saw.” The 45-minute stop includes a look at traditional tools and techniques, making it a meaningful cultural experience.

Stop 2: Herring Cove — Wildlife and Scenic Beauty

Next, the trolley heads about 9 miles south to Herring Cove, a popular spot for wildlife enthusiasts. The area is often bustling with bears, bald eagles, herons, and salmon. The presence of these animals depends on the season, but the possibility of spotting a bear feeding on salmon adds excitement to the trip. Several reviews note the thrill of seeing wildlife, such as “we saw bears, which was something we were hoping for,” or “saw a bear in the distance — sad we didn’t get a closer look.”

The scenery at Herring Cove is equally captivating, with opportunities to take photos of the rugged coastline and lush forest. Some travelers have reported seeing whales along the way, though this isn’t guaranteed. The stop lasts about 45 minutes, giving enough time for wildlife watching and enjoying the natural surroundings without feeling rushed.

What We Love About This Tour

The guided narration is a standout feature. Our sources highlight that guides are knowledgeable and passionate—making the experience more than just a sightseeing trip. One reviewer raved, “Jeff explained a lot about Ketchikan. Amazing what a story the totem poles tell.” That kind of insight makes the visit memorable.

The scenic ride on an open-air trolley adds a fun, relaxed vibe. The vehicle is small enough to feel cozy yet open enough to enjoy the fresh air and panoramic views. Plus, with admission fees included, you avoid the hassle of paying at each stop, which can save time and stress.

Practical Considerations: Price and Logistics

At $85 per person, the tour is priced competitively for what it offers—roughly two hours of guided exploration, culture, and wildlife viewing. Given that most travelers book this tour 91 days in advance, it demonstrates its popularity and perceived value.

The pickup option from the meeting point at the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau adds convenience, especially if you’re arriving on a cruise or have limited mobility. The tour’s group size maxes out at 34 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

However, some reviews point out that start-point directions could be clearer. One traveler nearly missed the tour because they were unaware of where the Visitor Center was relative to their ship berth. Planning ahead and verifying the meeting location can save headaches.

What Travelers Say

The reviews reveal a generally positive impression, especially about the knowledgeable guides and scenic views. One person said, “Guide was very informative. He knew a lot about the totems,” and another appreciated the “beautiful area” and “great views.” Wildlife sightings, while exciting, are acknowledged as not always guaranteed, with one reviewer humorously noting, “Almost bear-less!”

On the downside, a few travelers felt the vehicle was out of service for some time or that the totem park was smaller than expected. These hiccups underline the importance of checking current conditions before booking.

The Sum Up

The Totems, City & Wildlife by Cable Car Trolley offers a balanced blend of cultural storytelling, natural beauty, and fun transportation. It’s especially appealing for those who want a guided introduction to Ketchikan’s indigenous heritage and wildlife, all within a manageable two-hour window.

You’ll love the knowledgeable guides who bring stories to life, and the scenic ride that makes the tour feel like a leisurely exploration rather than a hurried rush. The inclusion of park admission fees and the small-group setting add to the overall value, making this a convenient choice for cruise visitors and families alike.

While wildlife sightings depend on chance—and some logistical issues have been noted—the experience remains authentic and engaging. It’s a solid way to gain a meaningful overview of Ketchikan’s cultural and natural treasures without breaking the bank.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate guided narratives and want a taste of local culture and wildlife. If you’re comfortable with some variability and enjoy small-group adventures, you’ll find plenty to love here.

FAQ

Is transportation on an actual cable car?
No, the tour uses a San Francisco–style open-air trolley, which gives a fun, vintage feel but isn’t a cable car system like San Francisco’s famous vehicles.

Are there park admission fees included?
Yes, admission to Saxman Native Village and Herring Cove is included, so you won’t need to pay extra at these stops.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 2 hours, making it a great option for a short, yet comprehensive, overview of Ketchikan.

Can I see wildlife on this tour?
Wildlife sightings are possible but not guaranteed. Many travelers hope to see bears and eagles but acknowledge that nature can be unpredictable.

What’s the meeting point?
The tour starts at Ketchikan Visitors Bureau, 131 Front St. Travelers should verify the location and plan ahead to avoid missing the start.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour’s moderate physical activity level makes it suitable for most families, provided kids are comfortable with a short walk and outdoor conditions.

In choosing the Totems, City & Wildlife by Cable Car Trolley, you’re signing up for a friendly, informative, and scenic glimpse into Ketchikan’s heart—perfect for those who want authentic sights, engaging guides, and a memorable Alaskan experience.