From Juneau: Pack Creek Bear Viewing Adventure

If you’re dreaming of spotting majestic brown bears in their natural habitat, this Pack Creek Bear Viewing Adventure from Juneau offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty, expert-guided wildlife encounters, and authentic wilderness immersion. While it’s not a cheap outing, the combination of floatplane flight, small-group intimacy, and the chance to witness some of North America’s most iconic creatures makes it a worthy investment for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers alike.

We particularly appreciate how this tour balances spectacular scenery with meaningful bear encounters. The guides, many of whom have over ten years of experience watching bears at Pack Creek, bring a wealth of knowledge and a genuine passion for conservation. The all-inclusive pricing, covering permits and flights, simplifies planning, while the small group size ensures you get a more personal experience. One consideration is the remote location, which means basic outdoor conditions and walking over uneven terrain — not ideal for everyone, but part of the wilderness appeal.

This adventure is best suited for travelers who love natural explorer experiences, photography, and don’t mind outdoor conditions. If you’re prepared for a physical walk and weather changes, you’ll find this trip offers a rare glimpse into Alaska’s incredible bear population and rugged landscapes.

Good To Know

• Intimate Small Groups: Limited to a handful of travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Expert Guides: Guides with over ten years of experience watching bears, adding credibility and insight.
• Scenic Floatplane Ride: 50 minutes of breathtaking aerial views over Admiralty Island.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Permits, flights, gear, and transportation included, no hidden costs.
• Remote Wilderness: Walk over uneven ground for about ¼ mile to reach the best viewing spots.
• Ideal for Nature Lovers: Perfect for those who love wildlife, photography, and outdoor adventures.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transportation

Starting from almost anywhere in Juneau, the tour includes pickup and drop-off in a comfortable van. This start is well-organized, with flexible options that accommodate cruise ship passengers and local travelers. The pickup timing varies depending on your location, but the tour company provides details well in advance, making planning straightforward.

The Scenic Floatplane Flight

The highlight for many travelers is the 50-minute floatplane flight, which offers an aerial perspective of Admiralty Island’s lush forests and rugged coastline. This part of the experience is truly awe-inspiring, especially if you’re a fan of aerial photography or just enjoy the thrill of flying over untouched wilderness. The pilot, likely to be an experienced guide themselves, also offers insightful commentary about the island’s ecology and history.

Arrival at Pack Creek: A Wildlife Sanctuary

Landing on the shoreline, you’ll be introduced to the Pack Creek Bear Preserve — a vital habitat for the highest concentration of brown bears in the world. The native Tlingit name for Admiralty Island, Kootznoowoo, meaning “Fortress of the Bear,” perfectly captures the island’s reputation.

Your guide will lead you to an optimal viewing spot — about 30 yards from the creek — where you can watch bears foraging, fishing, and engaging in social behaviors. The habitat boasts tidal flats, estuaries, and streams teeming with salmon, which are a major food source for the bears, especially during peak spawning season.

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The Guided Bear Watching

Guides provide binoculars and insights into bear behavior, often sharing stories about individual bears you might see. According to reviews, guides like “the most experienced” in Southeast Alaska make all the difference, offering informative commentary that enhances the experience beyond just watching animals.

While bears can sometimes be further away, the guides’ knowledge helps you read their signs and behaviors. It’s worth noting that the bears’ proximity can vary depending on the season and salmon runs, but the viewing area is carefully chosen for safety and optimal viewing.

Why This Area Is Special

Admiralty Island’s reputation as the “Fortress of the Bear” is backed by its nearly 1 million acres of old-growth rainforest and 700 miles of shoreline. The native Tlingit people have long revered this land, and the protected status of Pack Creek ensures that these bears continue thriving. Visitors often comment on the peaceful, untouched environment, which is remarkably different from zoo or sanctuary encounters.

Return Flight and Final Touches

After about 3.5 hours of bear-watching, you’ll board your floatplane for a scenic flight back to Juneau. The aerial views of the island’s forests, shoreline, and possibly distant glaciers make for a memorable conclusion.

The tour wraps with a post-adventure snack and transportation back to your original pickup point. The entire day lasts approximately 6 hours, balancing adventure, wildlife viewing, and travel time comfortably.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

What’s Included and Why It Matters

The tour price ($1,299 per person) covers almost everything — permits, flights, gear, transportation, and guided expertise. This all-inclusive approach avoids unexpected costs and simplifies planning. Rubber boots and rain gear are provided, which is helpful given the unpredictable Alaskan weather.

What to Bring

Layered clothing, weather-appropriate attire, a camera with a good lens, and extra batteries are recommended. Since the viewing area is around 30 yards from the creek, a good zoom lens is essential for photos. Also, don’t forget your sense of adventure and patience — bears are wild and unpredictable.

Physical Requirements and Restrictions

Participants should be comfortable walking about ¼ mile over uneven terrain. The terrain, while manageable for most, might be challenging for those with mobility issues or back problems. No weapons, drones, or unaccompanied minors are allowed, emphasizing the safe, wildlife-focused nature of this trip.

Safety and Conservation

The tour emphasizes respect for wildlife — touching or riding animals is strictly prohibited. As the area is remote, advanced medical support isn’t available on-site, so bring any necessary medications.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Expert Guides: With seasoned wildlife guides, the experience becomes more than just a wildlife sighting — it’s an educational journey that deepens appreciation for the bears and their habitat. Their experience watching generations of bears at Pack Creek ensures you’re in knowledgeable hands.

Scenic Flight: The floatplane ride isn’t just transportation; it’s part of the adventure, offering postcard-worthy views of the Alaskan wilderness. Many travelers mention how the aerial perspective transforms the experience into a true Alaskan adventure.

Authentic Wilderness: Unlike zoo or commercial wildlife parks, this tour takes you to a real, protected habitat where bears roam freely. The remote location and small group size mean fewer crowds and a more genuine encounter with nature.

Focus on Conservation and Respect: The emphasis on permits and regulations helps protect these bears’ habitat, making your experience sustainable and responsible.

Final Thoughts

If you’re someone who dreams of seeing bears in the wild, capturing stunning photos, and experiencing the raw beauty of Alaska, this tour offers an authentic, well-organized adventure. The combination of a scenic floatplane flight and expert-guided wildlife viewing provides the kind of immersive experience that’s hard to match elsewhere.

While the cost may seem steep, the inclusions — permits, gear, guide expertise, and transport — support a seamless and well-curated journey. It’s especially valuable for those who appreciate small-group intimacy, seasoned guides, and a focus on conservation.

This trip is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, photography buffs, and travelers wanting a true taste of Alaskan wilderness. If you’re up for a bit of walking, weather variability, and a memorable encounter with some of North America’s most impressive creatures, this adventure will likely be a highlight of your Alaska itinerary.

FAQ

Is transportation to and from Juneau included?
Yes, the tour includes transportation via van from almost any location in Juneau, making it convenient for travelers and cruise ship passengers alike.

How long does the entire experience last?
The full tour takes about 6 hours, including pickup, flights, bear viewing, and return travel.

Is it suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s best for travelers who can walk about ¼ mile over uneven terrain. It’s not recommended for unaccompanied minors or those with mobility challenges.

What should I bring?
Layered clothing, weather-appropriate gear, a camera with a good lens, extra batteries, and a sense of adventure. Rubber boots and rain gear are provided.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, all permits, flights, and gear are included in the $1,299 price. No extra costs are expected at check-out.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

What kind of bears will I see?
While specific bear sightings depend on the season and salmon runs, you’ll be looking for wild Brown Bears (sometimes called North American Grizzlies) in their natural habitat, often fishing or foraging in the tidal flats.

To sum it up, the From Juneau: Pack Creek Bear Viewing Adventure offers an immersive, well-rounded experience into Alaska’s wilderness. It combines breathtaking scenery, expert guidance, and the chance to witness awe-inspiring wildlife in a setting that few other tours can match. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure travelers craving authenticity, this trip promises a memorable snapshot of Alaska’s majestic bears and rugged landscapes.

You can check if your dates are available here: