Traitors Cove Bear Viewing

Traitors Cove Bear Viewing: A Close Encounter with Alaska’s Bears

A trip to Alaska isn’t complete without seeing its iconic wildlife — and there’s no better place to do that than in the Tongass National Forest. The Traitors Cove Bear Viewing tour offers a chance to spot bears in their natural habitat, catching salmon and foraging in the wilderness. For $525 per person, this 4-hour and 15-minute adventure combines a scenic floatplane flight, a forest hike, and wildlife viewing that’s perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.

What we love about this experience is how it mixes adventure and education. The small group size means plenty of personalized attention from the pilot-guide, Michelle, who reportedly makes the trip both informative and fun. Plus, the flight itself offers stunning views of the waterways and lush forests you don’t often get to see up close. The chance to photograph bears in action — plunging into the water for salmon — makes this a memorable highlight.

A possible consideration is that the tour depends heavily on weather conditions. If the skies are too cloudy or rainy, flights and viewing could be affected, although the team offers a full refund or rescheduling if that happens. It’s also a somewhat pricey outing, but considering the exclusive access, scenic flight, and wildlife encounters, many find it to be well worth the cost.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic wildlife experiences and are comfortable with a moderate amount of walking and outdoor activity. It’s especially ideal for photographers eager to capture Alaska’s raw nature or families with kids from age 6 upward who want a memorable, active day in the wilderness.

Key Points

• Unique Scenic Flight: Fly in a well-maintained floatplane over Revillagegedo Island for incredible views.
• Wildlife in Action: Observe bears fishing for salmon right in front of you, capturing natural moments.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 12 travelers ensures personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Expert Guide: Michelle and her team provide engaging narration and safety oversight.
• Seasonal Operation: Only available from July 20 to September 30, aligning with the summer bear activity.
• All-Inclusive: Includes transfers, audio headsets, and park permits, so no hidden costs.

A Deep Dive into the Traitors Cove Bear Viewing Tour

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The journey begins with convenient pickup from the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau, near the cruise ship berths. From there, a de Havilland Beaver floatplane takes you on a roughly 30-minute flight across the waterways of Tongass National Forest. This aerial start is part of what elevates the tour from a simple wildlife watch to a full-blown adventure, offering panoramic views of forests, mountains, and water.

The flight lands at Traitors Cove, home to a US Forest Service-maintained trail and the Margarete Creek Bear Viewing platform. This observatory gives you front-row seats to bears feeding on salmon as they swim upstream. The setting is picturesque: rushing water, greenery, and the wildlife that makes Alaska famous. According to reviews, you’ll see bears plunging into the water — a true spectacle of nature’s resilience.

While watching bears, you’ll also get to see bald eagles scavenging the leftovers, adding to the natural spectacle. Salmon battling their way upstream is another highlight, giving photographers plenty of opportunities. The guide provides interactive narration, enhancing your understanding of the ecosystem and the animals’ behaviors, which adds depth to the experience.

The hike back to the plane is straightforward but offers a chance to appreciate the forest environment. The total time at the viewing site is around two hours, plenty of time to observe and photograph.

What Makes It Special?

The scenic floatplane ride is a major draw for many travelers, offering a different perspective of Alaska’s wilderness. The aircraft seats just six passengers, ensuring everyone has a window seat and a clear view. The noise-canceling headsets help you catch every word of the pilot’s narration, making the experience richer.

The chance to watch bears in their natural habitat—rather than in a zoo or sanctuary—is a key highlight. As one reviewer said, “Michelle is a truly inspirational person, great pilot and her personnel is amazing. They make you feel special and unique.” This personal touch makes the trip memorable and engaging.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a wildlife enthusiast or keen photographer, this trip is a prime choice. Families with kids aged 6 and up will also find it accessible and exciting. Nature lovers who want more than just a boat cruise will appreciate the combination of flying, hiking, and wildlife observation.

Pricing and Value

At $525, this tour isn’t cheap, but it includes almost everything — transfers, the flight, permits, and expert guiding. Given the exclusive access to prime bear-watching spots and the rarity of flying into remote wilderness, many agree it’s a good value for such an authentic experience. The reviews underscore this, with one traveler stating, “We stayed in the heat viewing area for close to two hours,” highlighting how much time you get to enjoy the spectacle.

Practical Tips

• Wear layered clothing and comfortable walking shoes; weather in Alaska can change quickly.
• Bring your camera or smartphone with plenty of memory cards or batteries.
• Confirm your tour time and contact phone number when booking to avoid any hiccups.
• If you’re on a cruise, don’t forget to provide your ship’s name for proper coordination.
• Remember that food and beverages are not allowed on the flight, except bottled water.

The Sum Up: Who Should Sign Up for This Tour?

This Traitors Cove Bear Viewing experience is perfect for those who want an up-close wildlife encounter combined with a scenic flight — a true highlight of any Alaskan adventure. It’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a bit of outdoor activity and are eager to see bears in action. The small group size and guided narration ensure you get plenty of attention and insights, making it suitable for all ages, especially families and photography buffs.

While the price might seem high, the combination of aerial views, expert guiding, and prime wildlife sightings makes it a memorable, value-packed outing. If you’re seeking an authentic, immersive experience in Alaska’s wilderness, this tour stands out as a top choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, travelers as young as 6 have enjoyed this experience. The outdoor nature and small group setting make it manageable for families.

What is included in the price?
The price covers round-trip transfers from your Ketchikan hotel, the floatplane flight, permits, and guided wildlife viewing. Food and beverages are not included.

How long is the flight?
The flight lasts approximately 30 minutes each way, with additional time spent at the viewing site.

What should I wear?
Layered clothing and comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as weather can vary and walking is involved.

Can I book a specific tour time?
Yes, you can choose from two tour times to better fit your schedule.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour depends on good weather; if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this a small-group tour?
Yes, it’s limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the tour is all-inclusive, with no extra fees for the core experience.

What is the best time to go?
From July 20 to September 30, when bears are actively fishing for salmon.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 226 days ahead, so plan early to secure your spot.

In sum, the Traitors Cove Bear Viewing tour offers a rare opportunity to witness Alaska’s iconic bears in their natural environment, viewed from the comfort of a scenic floatplane and a forest trail. It balances adventure with education, making it ideal for wildlife lovers, photographers, and families wanting a genuine wilderness experience. Be prepared for stunning scenery, close encounters with nature, and the chance to create lasting memories of Alaska’s wild side.