Pack Creek Bear Viewing

Discover the Wild Side of Juneau with Pack Creek Bear Viewing

Imagine jetting off from Juneau in a small plane, soaring over lush forests and rugged coastlines, then stepping into a wildlife sanctuary where coastal brown bears fish and forage just feet from your viewing spot. For about 5.5 hours—including a 25-minute flight—you get to witness Alaska’s legendary bears in their natural habitat. Led by passionate guides, this tour combines expert storytelling, breathtaking scenery, and authentic wildlife encounters. The price is $1,299 per person, a figure that reflects a premium experience but also the convenience of included permits, lunch, and all transportation.

What we love about this tour is how intimate and well-organized the experience feels. The small group size—max nine travelers—means plenty of personal space and plenty of chances to ask questions. Plus, the scenic flight over Tongass National Forest on the way back is a highlight that keeps the adventure exciting from start to finish. On the flip side, it’s a non-refundable experience, so if weather doesn’t cooperate, you will need to reschedule or accept a full refund. This trip suits nature lovers, photographers, and families seeking an unforgettable wildlife adventure.

Key Points

• Close-up wildlife viewing in a protected sanctuary offers authentic encounters with bears.
• Expert guides share engaging insights into local history, indigenous culture, and bear behavior.
• Seamless logistics with all permits, gear, and transportation included provides great value.
• Scenic flights add an extra layer of excitement, offering stunning views of Juneau, Tongass National Forest, and Admiralty Island.
• Small group size enhances safety, comfort, and personalized attention.
• Weather-dependent schedule means flexibility is important, as trips can be canceled for poor conditions.

An In-Depth Look at Pack Creek Bear Viewing

When it comes to spotting Alaska’s iconic brown bears, few experiences match the intimacy and authenticity of visiting Pack Creek on Admiralty Island. This tour, operated by Wild Coast Excursions, takes you on a carefully curated journey that balances adventure, education, and comfort.

Departure and Transportation

The journey begins at Ward Air’s base in Juneau, where you meet your guide and fellow travelers. The small aircraft offers a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding wilderness—a feature that adds a sense of adventure from the first moment. The 25-minute flight is more than just transportation; it’s part of the experience, providing panoramic views of Tongass National Forest and the rugged coastline.

Once airborne, the guide shares tidbits about the landscape, wildlife, and local culture, setting the tone for the adventure ahead. The flight back offers another chance to admire the scenery, making the entire day feel like a continuous, immersive experience.

The Wildlife Sanctuary at Pack Creek

Landing at the adventure hub of Pack Creek feels like stepping into a different world. For at least 3 hours, you’ll be at a wildlife sanctuary, where bears are known to forage, fish, and interact in their natural environment. The viewing area is thoughtfully designed to allow visitors to get feet from the bears without disturbing them—an essential feature that guarantees both safety and an up-close experience.

What makes this stop special? The bears behavior here is unpredictable and fascinating. We loved the way guides and naturalists explain bear habits and how they forage for salmon and berries—giving us a better understanding of these magnificent animals. From the reviews, it’s clear many visitors find these moments unforgettable, with one person describing it as a “highlight” and watching four bears fishing in the creek.

Included Gear and Comfort

The tour provides rain gear, rubber boots, waterproof backpacks, binoculars, and a shared spotting scope—all designed to maximize comfort and viewing potential. The inclusion of lunch also means you won’t go hungry while waiting for bears to appear, and the snacks are well appreciated after a morning of wildlife watching.

The Scenic Flight Back

As your adventure concludes, you’re treated to another breathtaking flight over the Tongass National Forest, giving you a new perspective of the landscape that sustains Alaska’s wildlife. This flight enhances the overall value of the trip, turning what could be a simple wildlife outing into a scenic aerial tour of one of America’s most pristine wilderness areas.

The Experience from the Traveler’s Viewpoint

Reviewers consistently mention how knowledgeable guides elevate the experience. One called their guide “absolutely amazing,” and appreciated the local history and wildlife insights, which made the experience richer than just watching bears. Others highlight the small group size, which allows for more personalized attention and fewer crowds.

Many also note the stunning views—both of the bears and the surrounding scenery—as a highlight. The fact that the tour is carbon-negative underscores a respectful approach to tourism that values sustainability alongside adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature enthusiasts, families with kids, and photographers eager to capture Alaska’s wildlife up close. It’s also great for anyone interested in indigenous culture, as the guides share local history during the trip. Keep in mind, the tour requires moderate physical fitness and an openness to weather variability, as trips can be canceled if conditions are unsafe.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While $1,299 is not pocket change, it covers everything—permits, lunch, gear, and expert guiding—meaning you won’t face surprise costs. The small group size ensures a more personalized, safe, and comfortable experience, which is rare in wildlife tours. The scenic flights are a premium feature, providing views you simply cannot get from the ground, making the overall experience a worthy investment for wildlife lovers.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

The tour is weather-dependent, and if poor conditions arise, you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund. This flexibility is an important consideration, especially during unpredictable Alaskan weather. The non-refundable policy means planning ahead is wise, but it also underscores the importance of good weather for safety and enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

For those who crave authentic wildlife encounters in Alaska, this tour offers a thoughtful, well-organized way to see coastal brown bears in their natural environment. The combination of scenic flights, expert guides, and close-up bear viewing creates a memorable adventure that’s worth the price for many travelers seeking a high-quality, immersive experience.

If you’re traveling with a family, a wildlife enthusiast, or a photographer aiming for iconic images, this tour is likely to exceed expectations. The focus on safety, sustainability, and genuine encounters makes it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a chance to connect with Alaska’s wilderness in a meaningful way.

FAQs

What is included in the price of $1,299?
The price covers the flight to and from Pack Creek, all permits and landing fees, lunch, and gear such as rain gear, boots, binoculars, and a spotting scope.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours 30 minutes, including the flight time and time at the sanctuary.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes land and air transportation, starting from the meeting point at Ward Air in Juneau and returning there after the flight.

What should I bring or wear?
While the tour provides rain gear and waterproof boots, it’s a good idea to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and bring your own binoculars if you prefer, even though binoculars are supplied.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour recommends a moderate physical fitness level; it’s best suited for older children or teens comfortable with outdoor activities and short hikes.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Trips depend heavily on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I customize or book a private tour?
Yes, private and custom tours are available through Wild Coast Excursions, perfect for special occasions or a more personalized experience.

In essence, this Pack Creek Bear Viewing tour balances adventure, education, and comfort—a true highlight for wildlife lovers willing to invest in a memorable Alaskan journey.