OVER THE TOP TOURS city highlights, wildlife and more!

Ketchikan, Alaska, often known as the “First City,” offers a blend of stunning scenery, rich wildlife, and colorful local culture. For those wanting a quick yet comprehensive glimpse of this charming town and its surroundings, Over the Top Tours’ city highlight and wildlife tour is an excellent choice. Priced at $100 per person and lasting approximately 2 hours, this tour promises visits to key locations like Ketchikan Creek, Rotary Beach, Herring Cove, and even a breathtaking waterfall at 10 Mile—plus the chance to spot bears, eagles, otters, seals, and other wildlife.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines local insights with scenic stops, all within a comfortable private vehicle equipped with air conditioning and heat, making it suitable for any weather. Our guides, many of whom are lifelong residents, bring a warmth and depth of knowledge that transforms a simple sightseeing drive into a memorable adventure.

One thing to keep in mind is that wildlife sightings are not guaranteed—which is true for any wildlife tour. But with patience and a knowledgeable guide like Johnny or Lexi, your chances are quite good. This tour is best suited for travelers who want an informative, personal experience without long hikes or complicated logistics, and who appreciate local flavor and scenic beauty.

Key Points

• Comprehensive route covering Ketchikan’s highlights and scenic spots
• Wildlife viewing opportunities including eagles, bears, otters, and seals
• Comfortable private vehicle with climate control to enhance your experience
• Expert local guides with a passion for sharing their hometown stories
• Flexible and short trip perfect for travelers with limited time
• Wildlife is not guaranteed, but guides do their best to spot animals

What to Expect from the Experience

This tour is designed as a bite-sized introduction to Ketchikan’s natural beauty and local charm. It begins right at the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau, conveniently located near the cruise ship docks, making it easy to hop on as soon as your ship docks. From there, the guide takes you on a comfortably-paced drive that hits multiple scenic and wildlife spots.

Exploring Ketchikan’s Highlights

The first stop is a short exploration of downtown Ketchikan where you’ll get a quick sense of the city’s colorful buildings and maritime vibe. It’s a good warm-up before heading out into nature, and guides often share interesting tidbits about the city’s history, culture, and the significance of landmarks like totem parks.

Ketchikan Creek and Salmon Ladder

Next, you’ll visit Ketchikan Creek, home to a famous salmon ladder. While the salmon’s migration is seasonal, in July you might observe salmon leaping upstream, a sight that excites wildlife lovers and photographers alike. Guides will explain the salmon’s life cycle and the importance of this natural event, even if you visit outside peak season, which we found helpful for understanding the area’s ecosystem.

Rotary Beach and Beachcombing

A personal favorite is Rotary Beach, with its striking black sand—a rare sight and a lovely spot to stretch your legs. Depending on the tide, you might enjoy beachcombing, hunting for shells or sea glass, which adds a tactile, playful element to the trip. Reviews mention that beachcombing is a highlight, especially in good weather.

Wildlife at Herring Cove

The tour’s wildlife stop at Herring Cove is where many guests hope to see bears, eagles, and otters. Though sightings aren’t guaranteed, guides are skilled at spotting signs of wildlife and may point out feeding areas or nests. Travelers like us loved watching the eagles circling overhead and listening to guides share stories of how the local animals live their lives. Some reviews mention seeing seals and cranes, and even a starfish or blue jay along the way.

A Breathtaking Waterfall

Finally, the tour includes a visit to a spectacular waterfall at 10 Mile, often described as a must-see. It’s a perfect photo opportunity and a peaceful end to the journey, allowing you to appreciate the rugged beauty of Alaska’s landscape.

Transportation, Group Size, and Timing

Travel is in a private vehicle with climate control, which keeps the experience comfortable regardless of weather. The tour typically accommodates a small group of up to 9 travelers, making it intimate and personalized. The overall duration is about 2 hours, so it’s a perfect option for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a relaxed pace. The meeting point at the Visitors Bureau is convenient, and the tour ends right back at the start, making logistics simple.

The tour is available most days, and booking on average 103 days in advance indicates it’s popular among cruise passengers and those planning ahead. The price of $100 reflects a good value considering the variety of stops, wildlife opportunities, and the local expertise you gain from guides who are passionate about their hometown.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

Several reviews praise guide Johnny and Lexi for their local knowledge, friendly demeanor, and storytelling skills. One reviewer mentioned Johnny as “an amazing person” who treated guests like friends, not just customers. Many appreciate the personalized approach and how guides go out of their way to find wildlife or share local stories.

However, some travelers mention that timing matters. One noted that visiting early May meant fewer animals visible, particularly salmon, which affected wildlife sightings. This highlights that seasonality influences what you’ll see, though guides make every effort to maximize wildlife viewing.

A few reviewers felt the experience was overrated for the cost, especially if their expectations included guaranteed sightings of bears or whales. Yet, most agree that the value is good for the nature and culture you experience, especially considering the local insights and the scenic stops.

Why Choose This Tour?

This over-the-top tour is ideal if you’re looking for a personalized, scenic, and wildlife-rich experience that covers Ketchikan’s main highlights in a short time. It’s perfect for cruise passengers, first-time visitors, or nature lovers eager to see eagles, bears, and the stunning Alaskan landscape without strenuous activity.

If you’re a traveler who appreciates local guides with passion and knowledge, this tour offers a genuine taste of Ketchikan. It’s a balanced mix of scenic beauty, wildlife, and local storytelling designed to leave you with lasting memories of your Alaskan adventure.

The Sum Up

This tour from Over the Top Tours offers a value-packed, personal glimpse into Ketchikan’s natural and cultural charm. With knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and wildlife viewing opportunities (season permitting), it’s an enjoyable option for those who want to make the most of a few hours ashore. The small group size and climate-controlled vehicle add comfort and intimacy, making it easy to ask questions and soak up local stories.

While wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed, guides are skilled at spotting animals and sharing fascinating facts that enrich your understanding of Alaska’s wilderness. The visit to Rotary Beach and the waterfall alone makes this tour stand out, as does the chance to learn from locals who love their town and want to share it with visitors.

If you’re after an authentic, engaging, and scenic experience that offers a snapshot of Ketchikan’s wildlife, scenery, and community spirit, this tour is well worth considering. It’s especially suited for travelers who value local knowledge, comfort, and a relaxed pace over a lengthy or overly commercialized experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, as the tour is about 2 hours long and involves comfortable transportation. It’s good for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

What is included in the price?
The $100 fee covers the guided tour in a private vehicle, stops at scenic locations, and wildlife viewing opportunities. There are no admission fees for the stops listed, as these are free.

Will we see wildlife, like bears or eagles?
Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, as animals move unpredictably. Guides do their best to spot and point out animals like eagles, otters, and seals, and sometimes bears.

How early should I book?
Booking on average 103 days in advance is recommended, especially if visiting during peak cruise seasons or specific wildlife seasons.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers and bring rain gear if needed, as weather in Alaska can change quickly. The vehicle is climate-controlled, but outdoor stops may require suitable clothing.

Is there any hiking involved?
No, the tour is primarily a drive with short walks at specific stops, so it’s accessible for most fitness levels.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, allowing flexibility in your plans.

Are food or drinks included?
Not typically; this is a sightseeing and wildlife viewing tour, so bring water and snacks if you like.

What makes this tour stand out compared to others?
Its personalized approach, local guides, and focus on scenic beauty and wildlife make it more authentic and engaging than generic bus tours, especially with the opportunity to see animals in their natural habitat.

This tour offers an intimate, scenic, and educational snapshot of Ketchikan that’s perfect for those wanting a memorable introduction without overextending their schedule. You’ll leave with stories, photos, and a deeper appreciation for Alaska’s wild side.