Pack Creek Bear Viewing

If you’re dreaming of witnessing bears in their natural habitat, the Pack Creek Bear Viewing tour from Juneau offers a chance to see these majestic creatures up close and personal. While I haven’t done this tour myself, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary make it clear that this is a well-organized, immersive experience that combines scenic flights with prime wildlife encounters.

What we love about this tour is its intimate proximity to bears, the expert guidance that enriches your understanding, and the breathtaking flights over Admiralty Island and Tongass National Forest. However, you’ll want to keep in mind that weather can impact the trip’s schedule, which is common with outdoor adventures in Alaska. This tour suits wildlife lovers, photography buffs, and anyone eager for an authentic wilderness experience — but be prepared for some physical activity and variable weather conditions.

Good To Know

• Close encounters with bears at Pack Creek, a designated wildlife sanctuary.
• Scenic flights offer unparalleled views of Admiralty Island and Tongass National Forest.
• All-inclusive package includes permits, transportation, lunch, and gear.
• Expert guides provide insights into local wildlife, indigenous culture, and natural history.
• Limited group size (max 9 travelers) for a more personal and immersive experience.
• Weather-dependent schedule, with options for rescheduling or full refunds if canceled.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Journey Begins: Convenient Departure from Juneau

Start your adventure at Ward Air located at 8991 Yandukin Drive, Juneau. The tour offers pickup options, making it easy to join without hassle. Once you’re checked in, you’ll board a small aircraft for the 25-minute flight over Admiralty Island. This part alone is worth the price — many travelers comment on how stunning the aerial views are, with lush forests stretching as far as the eye can see.

Scenic Flight: Admiring Alaska’s Wilderness from Above

The flight over Admiralty Island isn’t just transport; it’s part of the experience. Expect panoramic views of dense forests, rugged coastline, and perhaps even glimpses of marine life below. Many reviewers appreciate this as a highlight, with one commenting on the “breathtaking” scenery during the aerial portion. The flights are shared and involve landing permits at the wildlife sanctuary, which are included in the package.

The Heart of the Tour: Pack Creek Wildlife Sanctuary

Once at Pack Creek, you’re greeted with a designated viewing area where you’ll spend at least 3 hours observing bears foraging, fishing, and interacting — often just feet away. The sanctuary’s strategic location allows for close-up sightings while maintaining respectful distances, making it a safe and intimate experience.

Reviewers like one who noted, “We watched four bears fish in the creek and interact with each other,” highlighting how the environment facilitates authentic wildlife interactions. Guides are knowledgeable, sharing insights about the bears’ behaviors, local history, and indigenous culture, enriching your understanding far beyond just watching.

Practical Details & Gear

Your experience includes all the essentials: rain gear, rubber boots, waterproof backpacks, binoculars, and a shared spotting scope. Many travelers appreciate these thoughtful provisions, especially given the unpredictable Alaskan weather. The tour’s small group size (maximum 9 travelers) ensures personalized attention and a quieter, more immersive environment.

Returning Flight & Final Views

After a rewarding few hours at Pack Creek, you’ll hop back into the aircraft for a breathtaking flight over Tongass National Forest on your way back to Juneau. Guests often describe this as a perfect way to round out the trip—an opportunity to soak in the vast wilderness from above and reflect on the close-up bear encounters.

What’s Included & Price Analysis

The $1,299 per person fee covers permits, transportation, lunch, gear, landing, and facility fees. Considering the inclusion of permits, guided expertise, scenic flights, and the chance to see bears so close you can almost touch them, the price offers good value. This isn’t a rushed, short viewing; it’s a thoughtfully curated experience that balances adventure, comfort, and education.

Flexibility & Cancellation Policy

This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed, so planning ahead is crucial. However, it does have a safety net: if weather cancels the flight, you’ll be offered a rescheduled date or full refund. This is particularly important in Alaska, where weather can be unpredictable but safety is prioritized.

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers seeking a genuine, up-close encounter with Alaskan bears. It’s also suitable for families, as long as participants are moderately physically fit and comfortable in outdoor environments. The small group size means you’ll get personalized insights, making it especially appealing for those wanting a more intimate, less commercialized experience.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In terms of value, this tour offers a comprehensive package that combines scenic flights, expert guidance, and wildlife viewing — all in one memorable day. The limited group size and inclusion of gear elevate it from a simple sightseeing trip to an immersive experience.

While the price may seem high, many guests express that the opportunity to see bears in such natural settings justifies the cost. Plus, the convenience of included permits, gear, and flexible scheduling (weather permitting) makes this a hassle-free way to indulge your wildlife curiosity.

If you’re passionate about nature, eager to see bears in their habitat, and want a tour that balances adventure with comfort, this is likely to be a highlight of your Juneau trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes both air transportation to and from Pack Creek, along with land transfers from the meeting point.

What should I bring on the tour?
All necessary gear such as rain gear, rubber boots, waterproof backpacks, binoculars, and a spotting scope are provided, so just bring your camera, personal essentials, and a positive attitude.

How long does the entire trip last?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, including flight time, wildlife viewing, and returning flights.

Can I cancel or reschedule if the weather is bad?
If weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. The tour itself is non-refundable once booked.

What is the size of the group?
The tour limits to a maximum of 9 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Are meals included?
Yes, lunch is part of the package, so you can enjoy a meal after your wildlife adventure.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly specified, the moderate physical fitness requirement suggests older children or teenagers would be more comfortable with the outdoor nature of the trip.

How close will we see the bears?
Bears are observed from designated viewing platforms that allow for close but respectful viewing, often just feet away, making it an incredible opportunity for wildlife photography.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Primarily, you’ll see brown bears, but guides may share insights on other local wildlife present in the area.

Is the tour eco-friendly?
Yes, all trips are carbon-negative, emphasizing environmental responsibility and conservation.

The Pack Creek Bear Viewing tour from Juneau is a carefully curated experience that offers a rare glimpse into the lives of Alaska’s coastal brown bears. Its combination of scenic flights, expert-guided wildlife encounters, and all-inclusive amenities makes it a compelling choice for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. While weather can be unpredictable, the flexible policies and small-group approach ensure a comfortable, personalized experience that’s worth every penny for those seeking authentic Alaskan wilderness. If bears have always captured your imagination, this tour probably belongs at the top of your Alaska bucket list.