Pack Creek Bear Viewing

Travelers eager to see coastal brown bears in their natural habitat often find themselves drawn to Juneau’s wilderness. The Pack Creek Bear Viewing tour offers a compelling combination of scenic flights, expert-guided wildlife encounters, and all the comforts needed for a memorable day. With a 5-hour 30-minute itinerary, a $1,299 price tag, and a stellar 5-star rating from two reviews, this experience clearly resonates with nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

What truly makes this trip stand out? We love the combination of aerial views over the Tongass National Forest and up-close bear encounters at the wildlife sanctuary — all hosted by knowledgeable guides. The permitted access to a designated bear viewing area guarantees a safe, respectful, and intimate experience with the bears. On the downside, the non-refundable policy and potential weather cancellations** are worth considering, particularly for travelers on tight schedules or with flexible plans.

This tour is best suited for those with a moderate physical fitness level who want a comprehensive, all-in-one wildlife adventure. If you’re interested in learning about indigenous culture, exploring stunning landscapes, and observing bears forage in the wild, this tour could be a highlight of your Juneau trip.

Key Points

• Scenic Flights: The tour features two breathtaking flights—one to Pack Creek and a return over the Tongass National Forest, offering incredible aerial views.
• Close-up Wildlife Viewing: Spend at least 3 hours at the Pack Creek wildlife sanctuary, observing bears fishing, foraging, and interacting just feet from the viewing area.
• All-Inclusive: The experience covers permits, lunch, and transportation, ensuring no hidden costs or logistical worries.
• Expert Guides: Local guides, praised for their knowledge and friendliness, enrich the experience with insightful commentary on bears, wildlife, and indigenous culture.
• Comfort & Equipment: Rain gear, rubber boots, waterproof backpacks, binoculars, and shared spotting scopes are provided, making the outdoor adventure comfortable regardless of weather.
• Limited Group Size: With a maximum of 9 travelers, you’ll enjoy a more personalized and engaging experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

How the Itinerary Unfolds

The day begins at Ward Air Inc, located conveniently in Juneau, where you’ll meet your guides and board a small, comfortable aircraft. The 25-minute flight to Pack Creek is often cited as one of the most memorable parts of the tour, with guests marveling at the lush scenery of Admiralty Island and the chance to see breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness even before arriving at the sanctuary.

Once at Pack Creek, you’ll settle into designated viewing areas built specifically for safe, close wildlife observation. The guides are praised for their local expertise—many reviews mention guides like Virginia, who shared fascinating stories about the bears’ behaviors and local ecology. Watching 4 bears fishing in the creek, as described, is a common highlight, with visitors noting the up-close experience as truly awe-inspiring.

The at least 3 hours at the sanctuary give ample time to witness bears forage for salmon, interact with each other, and display natural behaviors. Reviewers have commented on how knowledgeable guides enhanced the experience, sharing insider tips and answering questions, making the wildlife interactions even more meaningful.

The Flight Back Over the Tongass

After your time at Pack Creek, you’ll take a breathtaking flight over the Tongass National Forest. This part of the tour is praised for its dramatic vistas and offers a chance to see dense forests, rugged coastlines, and perhaps eagles soaring overhead. Returning to Juneau, you’ll feel both exhilaration from the wildlife experience and awe from the scenic views.

What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour offers a comprehensive package that covers everything needed for a seamless day. From rain gear, waterproof backpacks, and binoculars to lunch, all arrangements are handled in advance, so you can focus on the adventure.

The permits and facility fees are included, emphasizing that this is a sanctioned, well-managed wildlife-viewing experience. The group size is limited to 9, which allows guides to give personalized attention and ensures a more intimate viewing experience—something many travelers value highly.

The Experience’s Value

At $1,299, this tour might seem steep but consider what’s included: return flights, permits, lunch, expert guidance, and all equipment. Many travelers feel that the quality of the wildlife encounter and the scenery justifies the cost. One reviewer even called it “absolutely amazing,” emphasizing how the guided approach and the chance to see bears in their natural environment make the experience worth every penny.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• Transportation & Logistics: The tour starts at Ward Air Inc in Juneau. Transportation from your lodging is typically included or can be arranged.
• Duration: Approximate 5.5 hours, with about 3 hours at the sanctuary and flights included.
• Physical Fitness: A moderate level is recommended—comfortable walking and standing are necessary, but no strenuous activity.
• Weather Dependency: The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
• Group Size: Max of 9 travelers, fostering a more personal experience.
• Booking & Cancellation: Non-refundable once booked, so plan accordingly. Flexibility is limited if weather issues arise.
• Recommended For: Wildlife lovers, photographers, adventure travelers, families with older children, and those interested in indigenous culture.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

One visitor shared, “Pack Creek Bear Viewing was absolutely AMAZING!! A must-do experience for the whole family,” highlighting how even non-bear enthusiasts find value in the up-close wildlife encounters. Another remarked, “We watched 4 bears fish in the creek and interact with each other! Awesome! We can’t wait to come back,” indicating how engaging and dynamic the wildlife can be.

Guests also appreciate the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Virginia, who made complex behaviors accessible. The scenic flights over Admiralty Island and Tongass Forest are frequently mentioned as stunning highlights, with travelers noting the photos taken from the air are memorable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure-minded travelers who want more than just a sightseeing trip. If you’re excited about wildlife, cultural stories, and scenic flights, and don’t mind a moderate physical effort, this tour will suit you well. It’s especially suitable for those who value guided expertise and want a comprehensive, all-inclusive outing.

However, if you’re sensitive to weather or have a tight schedule without flexibility, you might want to consider the non-refundable policy carefully. The limited group size makes it a better fit for those seeking a personal touch and more space to observe the bears comfortably.

Final Thoughts

The Pack Creek Bear Viewing tour offers a rare blend of scenic beauty, wildlife interaction, and cultural insight. The inclusion of aerial flights, expert guides, and all necessary gear makes it a well-rounded, value-driven adventure for wildlife enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. While the price point might seem high, the quality of the experience and the memories created are worth it for many.

If you’re looking for a meaningful, close-up encounter with Alaska’s iconic bears, combined with stunning vistas and expert guidance, this tour deserves serious consideration. It’s an opportunity to witness nature in its purest form and return home with stories and photos that will last a lifetime.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered as part of the experience, making it convenient to start your adventure without extra hassle.

How long does the entire tour last?
The total duration is approximately 5 hours 30 minutes, including flights, wildlife viewing, and transportation.

What should I wear?
The tour provides rain gear and waterproof backpacks, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear are recommended, especially since you’ll be outdoors for several hours.

Are binoculars provided?
Yes, binoculars and a shared spotting scope are included to enhance your viewing experience.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour limits groups to 9 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
This experience is non-refundable once booked. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate physical activity suggests it’s best for older children or teens comfortable with outdoor conditions.

Are there any environmental considerations?
All trips are carbon-negative, and permits are included, emphasizing environmentally responsible wildlife viewing.

What if the weather is poor on the day of my tour?
If canceled due to weather, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund, ensuring flexibility in planning.

The Pack Creek Bear Viewing tour offers a well-balanced, memorable journey into Alaska’s wilderness, perfect for those eager to see bears and enjoy incredible scenery with knowledgeable guides.