From Juneau: Pack Creek Bear Viewing Adventure

If you’re dreaming of seeing Alaska’s famed brown bears in their natural habitat, this Pack Creek Bear Viewing Adventure from Juneau offers a compelling way to do so. Organized by Bear Creek Outfitters, this tour promises a combination of scenic floatplane flights, expert guiding, and a chance to observe bears and salmon up close — all in a small-group setting that emphasizes authenticity and safety.

What we love about this experience are the intimate nature of the tour — with only small groups, you won’t be lost in a crowd — and the stunning views during the flight over Admiralty Island, which is home to the highest concentration of brown bears in the world. A potential consideration is the remote nature of the site: it requires walking over uneven terrain and has limited medical facilities nearby, which is something to keep in mind for those with mobility issues or health concerns.

This tour is ideal for travelers who crave an authentic wilderness encounter combined with a bit of adventure. It’s particularly suited for wildlife enthusiasts, photography buffs, and anyone eager to experience Alaska’s rugged beauty with knowledgeable guides leading the way.

Key Points

• Unique access to Admiralty Island’s bears: The highest concentration of brown bears in the world.
• Scenic floatplane flight: About 50 minutes in total, offering spectacular aerial views.
• Expert guides: Over ten years of experience watching bears, ensuring safety and insight.
• Small group experience: More personal, less rushed, and ideal for photography.
• Remote wilderness setting: Expect walking on uneven ground and outdoor conditions.
• All inclusive: Permits, transportation, rain gear, binoculars, and snacks included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Pack Creek Bear Viewing Adventure

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour begins with a pickup in Juneau, usually in the early afternoon, with transportation arranged from almost any location in town, including cruise ship docks. Once onboard, you’ll head to the floatplane base for your scenic flight over Admiralty Island — a highlight in itself. The flight lasts about 50 minutes total, giving you plenty of time to soak in the views of Alaska’s rugged coastline, dense forests, and the shimmering waters of the Inside Passage.

Landing at the Pack Creek site, you’ll be greeted by some of the most experienced bear guides in Southeast Alaska. They have spent over ten years observing the same bears and their behaviors, which means they can offer insights you might not get anywhere else. The walk to the viewing location is about a quarter-mile over uneven terrain, so comfortable footwear and a sense of adventure are necessary.

The three and a half hours spent at Pack Creek are the core of this experience. Here, you’ll watch bears foraging on tidal flats, fishing for salmon, and engaging in typical behaviors. The habitat, with its estuaries and stream, provides a prime setting for observing early-season foraging, mating behaviors, and later summer salmon runs — all happening just a few yards from you. The guides’ expertise ensures you’re observing safely and respectfully.

At the end of your time, you’ll reboard the floatplane for the return flight to Juneau, followed by a van ride back to your starting point. It’s a full, immersive six-hour adventure — packed with wildlife moments and jaw-dropping scenery.

What Makes the Experience Special

The floatplane flight over Admiralty Island is more than just transportation; it’s a chance to see Alaska’s wilderness from a unique perspective. The sheer size of Admiralty Island, with nearly a million acres of old-growth rainforest and 700 miles of shoreline, makes it an impressive backdrop for your bear encounter.

Once on the ground, the small group size ensures a more intimate experience. You won’t feel like part of a herd — instead, you’re part of a carefully managed, respectful wildlife observation. Guides are certified and highly knowledgeable, sharing stories about the bears’ habits, the ecosystem, and how the native Tlingit people refer to the island as the “Fortress of the Bear”.

The Cost and Its Value

At $1,299 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but the value is evident when you consider what’s included: all permits, flights, transportation, rain gear, binoculars, and a post-adventure snack. Bear in mind, the ticket covers a significant logistical operation — floatplane flights, permits, and expert guides — which are all essential for a safe and informative experience.

Compared to other wilderness tours, the small group setting and expert guiding elevate this beyond a simple wildlife viewing trip. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast or a serious photographer, the quality of the guides and the opportunity to see bears in a pristine environment justify the cost.

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What to Expect on the Day

Dress in layered, weather-appropriate clothing — Alaskan weather can change quickly, especially in the outdoors. The tour supplies rain gear and rubber boots, which help you stay comfortable during the walk and while observing the bears.

Bring a camera with a good lens because your viewing area, while close, is about 30 yards from the bears. Bears might be further away, and high-quality photos require a strong zoom. The guides recommend having extra batteries or fully charged cameras to capture these fleeting moments.

Participants should be prepared to walk over uneven ground, which can be tiring, especially if you have back problems or mobility issues. The experience isn’t suitable for unaccompanied minors or those with significant mobility impairments.

The Remote Wilderness Factor

Since Pack Creek is pretty remote, medical facilities are not immediately accessible. It’s wise to carry any medications or health supplies you might need. The guides emphasize safety and respect for the wildlife, urging visitors to avoid touching or riding the animals, and discouraging the use of drones or weapons.

Authentic Encounters and Reviews

While actual traveler reviews aren’t quoted here, the tour’s detailed description and reputation suggest a well-organized, professional operation. Many guests have praised the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, often citing the stunning scenery and memorable wildlife sightings as highlights.

The careful planning — permits, transportation, gear — means you’re getting a comprehensive, hassle-free adventure. The emphasis on small groups and local guides ensures you can ask questions, learn, and truly connect with the environment.

Final Thoughts

Who is this tour best suited for? If you’re a wildlife lover eager to see brown bears in a natural setting, this is an experience that offers an incredible combination of scenic beauty, expert guidance, and genuine wilderness. Photographers will appreciate the chance for high-quality shots, while adventure seekers will value the floatplane ride and the walk through the rugged terrain.

The tour’s value lies in its authentic, immersive nature — understanding that you’re witnessing a critical part of Alaska’s ecosystem. It’s a bit of a splurge, but one that promises lifelong memories and a deeper appreciation for these majestic creatures and their habitat.

For those prepared for outdoor conditions and seeking a meaningful wildlife experience, this tour provides a solid balance of comfort, adventure, and education.

FAQs

How do I get to the floatplane base?
The tour includes transportation from almost any location in Juneau, including cruise ship docks, making it convenient to start your adventure without extra hassle.

What should I wear?
Layered, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, as Alaskan weather can change quickly. The tour supplies rain gear and rubber boots for comfort and safety.

Is the walk to the viewing area difficult?
The walk is about a quarter-mile over uneven ground. Participants should be comfortable walking on rough terrain and prepared for outdoor conditions.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers all permits, floatplane flights, transportation, rain gear, binoculars, and a snack after the adventure — offering good value for such an all-inclusive experience.

Can I bring my camera?
Yes, a camera with a strong lens and extra batteries is highly recommended to capture the bears from the viewing area, which is roughly 30 yards away.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for unaccompanied minors, and those with mobility issues may find the terrain challenging. It’s best suited for active, outdoor-loving adults and families with older children who understand wilderness safety.

To sum it up, the From Juneau: Pack Creek Bear Viewing Adventure offers a rare chance to see Alaska’s iconic brown bears in their natural habitat, combining scenic flights, expert guides, and a small-group atmosphere. It’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and adventurers eager to experience the true wilds of Southeast Alaska. With careful planning and a spirit of curiosity, this tour could be one of the most memorable parts of your Alaskan journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: