From Juneau: Pack Creek Bear Viewing Adventure

Discover the Majesty of Alaska’s Bears with the Pack Creek Floatplane Tour

Imagine soaring over the Admiralty Island National Monument, a 1-million-acre wilderness teeming with life, and landing on a remote shoreline where brown bears roam freely. For about $1,299 per person, this 6-hour adventure offers a rare glimpse into Alaska’s wilderness, combining scenic floatplane flights with an up-close encounter with some of the most famous bears in North America.

What we love about this tour? First, the intimate setting—small groups mean plenty of personalized attention and fewer crowds, making the experience more authentic and less touristy. Second, the expert guidance of guides with over ten years watching bears, which ensures you’ll have a safe, informative journey, and learn much about these impressive animals and their habitat.

One potential consideration is the weather dependency—Alaskan weather can be unpredictable, so your flight might be delayed or altered. Also, because the experience involves walking over uneven terrain, it’s best suited for those in good physical shape. This trip suits travelers who are eager to see Alaska’s wildlife in its natural environment, love photography, and appreciate being in the great outdoors with knowledgeable guides leading the way.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Wilderness Experience: Small groups and expert guides provide a genuine, personalized encounter with Alaska’s bears.
• Stunning Aerial Views: The floatplane flight offers spectacular vistas of Admiralty Island’s rugged coastline and old-growth forests.
• Prime Wildlife Viewing: Pack Creek’s habitat supports a high concentration of brown bears, especially during salmon runs.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Permits, flights, gear (rain gear and binoculars), and transportation are included, with no hidden costs.
• Physical Readiness Needed: Participants need to walk over uneven ground and be prepared for outdoor conditions.
• Ideal for Nature Lovers: Perfect for travelers seeking a memorable, off-the-beaten-path experience with wildlife at the forefront.

A Detailed Look at What to Expect from This Adventure

The journey begins with a pick-up in Juneau, where you’re comfortably transported to the floatplane base. This seamless transfer means you won’t have to worry about logistics—your day starts smoothly, allowing you to focus on the adventure ahead. Once at the floatplane dock, you’ll don rain gear and rubber boots, essential for Alaska’s often damp weather, and prepare for your scenic 50-minute flight over Admiralty Island.

The Scenic Floatplane Ride

The floatplane flight itself is a highlight—an airborne perspective of the rugged southeastern coastline, old-growth forests, and shimmering waterways. You’ll get glimpses of the island’s immense saltwater shoreline and perhaps some eagles soaring overhead. The flight sets the tone for the experience, and many reviews mention the breathtaking views as a major perk.

Landing at Pack Creek

Upon landing, your guide will lead you over a quarter-mile walk over uneven terrain to reach the viewing area. This part of the trip demands some physical effort, but guides are experienced and quick to point out interesting flora, fauna, and signs of bear activity along the way.

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The Bear Viewing Experience

Once at Pack Creek, you’ll find yourself a comfortable distance—around 30 yards—from a productive tidal flat and estuary, where bears are often foraging or fishing for salmon. The guides’ expertise shines here: they’ve watched generations of bears and know precisely where and when to look for specific behaviors.

The native Tlingit name for Admiralty Island, Kootznoowoo—meaning “Fortress of the Bear”—speaks to the island’s reputation. It’s home to the highest concentration of brown bears in the world, with nearly 100 miles of shoreline and vast forest habitats. As the salmon run begins in late summer, the bears come to feed—an extraordinary sight that many travelers say is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

What the Guides Bring to the Table

Your guides, many with over ten years of experience, are adept at reading bear behavior and ensuring safety. They’ll help you identify different bear activities, such as early season foraging or mating behaviors, and share insights into their habits and the ecosystem.

Photography and Observation

For those keen on capturing the moment, binoculars are provided, but bringing a camera with a strong lens and extra batteries is highly recommended. The bears might be further away than expected, but the guides’ knowledge and the equipment help you get high-quality photos. Several reviewers mention how impressive it is to witness these majestic creatures in the wild, just yards away.

Returning and Reflecting

After about three and a half hours at the viewing location, you’ll board the floatplane for the return flight, enjoying more breathtaking vistas. Back in Juneau, a van will take you to your original pickup point, ending a day filled with awe and discovery.

Why This Tour Offers Exceptional Value

The all-inclusive price covers permits, flights, gear, and transportation—there are no hidden fees. The permits for Pack Creek are included, which is crucial since accessing this protected habitat isn’t straightforward without special permissions. The small group size ensures everyone gets looks and attention, making the wildlife viewing more intimate and less crowded.

From the perspective of value, the experience combines scenic beauty, wildlife education, and the thrill of Alaska’s wilderness. Many travelers find that the cost is justified by the quality of the guides, the chance to see bears in their natural habitat, and the stunning aerial views.

Who Will Most Appreciate This Tour?

This adventure suits nature lovers, wildlife photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts eager for an authentic Alaskan experience. It’s also ideal for those who don’t mind walking over uneven terrain and are prepared for outdoor conditions. If you’re seeking a less commercialized, more genuine encounter with Alaska’s wilderness, this tour will likely tick all your boxes.

The Sum Up

The From Juneau: Pack Creek Bear Viewing Adventure offers a compelling mix of spectacular scenery, expert guidance, and the chance to see brown bears in their natural environment. The combination of floatplane flights and a guided walk to a remote wildlife habitat makes it a unique and memorable experience.

While it’s a pricey outing, the value lies in the opportunity to witness some of the highest bear concentrations in the world along with the stunning views from the air. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who want to go beyond typical sightseeing and truly connect with Alaska’s wild side.

If you’re prepared for outdoor conditions, eager for wildlife, and looking for a small-group, authentic experience, this tour will deliver in spades. Just remember, patience and a good camera are your best friends for capturing these once-in-a-lifetime moments.

FAQ — Your Questions Answered

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation to and from downtown Juneau to the floatplane base is included in the tour.

How long is the entire experience?
The entire trip lasts approximately 6 hours, including pick-up, flights, time at Pack Creek, and return.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing, especially layers, a camera with a strong lens, extra batteries, and a sense of adventure. Rain gear and rubber boots are provided.

Are there any age restrictions?
Unaccompanied minors are not allowed, and participants should be able to walk ¼ mile over uneven ground.

What is the group size?
Small groups are typical, offering a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, due to the walking involved over uneven terrain, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments.

Are permits included?
Yes, all necessary permits for Pack Creek are included in the price.

Will I see bears close up?
Bears are observed from about 30 yards away, which is safe and appropriate for wildlife viewing.

Is this activity weather-dependent?
Yes, flights and certain parts of the trip may be affected by weather. Flexibility is recommended.

In summary, this tour is a rare chance to combine aerial views, wildlife observation, and the untouched beauty of Alaska. It’s perfect if you’re looking for an authentic, small-group adventure that highlights the incredible brown bears and magnificent scenery of Admiralty Island.

You can check availability for your dates here: