Alaska Native Heritage Trail and Traditions with Meal

Discover the profound harmony between nature, culture, and science on our shore excursion in the picturesque port of Juneau, Alaska. This unique journey takes you deep into the symbiotic relationship between Western Science and the Traditional Ecological Knowledge of Native People.

Rather than the standard cultural exploration, this tour is a captivating throughline of how nature moulds cultures and the critical importance of both Western Science and Traditional Knowledge in achieving equilibrium with nature. Our expedition highlights how the scientific method, an organized technique involving observation, experimentation, and theory testing, goes hand in hand with Traditional Knowledge.

Alaska's Native Peoples have been practicing the scientific method for over 10,000 years, an endearing testament to their wisdom and resilience. This indigenous science, passed down through generations via oral tradition, parallels Western Science in its organization. Yet, it presents a more holistic and interconnected application of knowledge, aptly termed Organized Wisdom.

With this philosophy as our vantage point, we lead you across a serene boardwalk to unveil the compelling tales behind six stunning totem poles. Each totem story illuminates how nature powerfully influences people and their culture. This distinctive narrative thread provides an engaging perspective of how science and tradition interact, shaping our understanding of and connection with nature.

This tour, a thrilling one-hour escapade into Alaska's heart, begins with a 15-minute meet, followed by the guided tour itself. Afterwards, you're free to continue the exploration with our 15-minute Tram Eagle excursion or indulge in some independent adventuring. The choice is yours!

Book your spot in this immersive cultural experience to deepen your understanding of the compelling interplay between nature, science, and culture, and to witness first-hand the natural beauty of Juneau, Alaska, a port city like no other. This tour's mix of education, exploration, and fun is a unique selling point that promises an unforgettable journey through Alaska's cultural and scientific heritage.

Highlights of Ketchikan Tour

Ketchikan, Alaska, is a small city that directly faces the famous Inside Passage, known as a popular cruise destination. It is the state's south-eastern-most town and is known for its many Native American totem poles on display throughout the vicinity. You can experience snow capped mountains, salmon spawning streams, waterfalls and rich wildlife including bald eagles and black bears.

Your day of discovery into this charming city starts with a short Ketchikan city tour where you will drive by some of the area's many salmon canneries and learn about the salmon industry. From town you will make your way to the Eagle Point Education Center. Here you will have the opportunity to see eagles in their natural setting and see a native carver working on a totem pole. While here you will also be provided the opportunity to try delicious, local salmon samples.

After eagle point you will travel to Saxman Native village where you will be greeted by the largest collection of standing totems in one location. Walk through the 25 replicas of original Native Alaskan totem poles and observe the artistic carvings revealing stories of the people and legends of the past.

From here continue to scenic Rotary Beach. Make a brief stop to check for whales and other wildlife that may be spotted in the area. This beach is popular with the locals and it's easy to see why with the great opportunities to see humpback and orca whales as they migrate through Nicolas Passage.

After that it's off to Herring Cove for an excellent chance to view the areas majestic bald eagles, seals, heron and even bears at times, not to mention thousands of salmon returning to the place of their birth upstream!

Your tour will stop last at one of the area's cascading and beautiful waterfalls for picture opportunities before your comfortable return trip back to the pier area and your ship.

Your visit to Ketchikan will most certainly be one to remember when you book this tour. For those who love nature and animals you don't want to miss out, book now!

Please Note: Restrooms available at Rotary Beach, Saxman Village and Herring Cove. Also, please be advised wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.