Chichagof Island Tour: Brown Bear Search

If you’re considering venturing into Alaska’s wilds in search of the iconic brown bears, this Chichagof Island tour offers a focused, nature-rich experience. Promising a small-group adventure with local guides and wildlife sightings, it’s an option packed with potential for those eager to see bears in their natural habitat. Our review is based on a blend of traveler reviews, tour details, and what you can realistically expect from this three-hour expedition.

What we love about this tour is how it combines personalized attention—thanks to small group sizes of no more than 10 travelers—and the opportunity to learn about Alaska’s wilderness from knowledgeable local guides. Plus, the scenic views of the island’s rugged landscape and the chance to spot native wildlife are definite highlights. However, it’s worth noting that bear sightings aren’t guaranteed, so expectations should be realistic, especially outside of mating season when bears might be less active.

This tour is best suited for nature lovers, families with children over age 8, and those interested in wildlife photography or simply observing Alaska’s famous bears from a respectful distance. If you’re looking for a short, intimate glimpse into Alaska’s wilderness with an emphasis on wildlife, this may be just the experience you’re after.

Key Points

• Small-group format provides a more personal and flexible experience
• Expert local Native guides add valuable insights about wildlife and culture
• Price offers good value for the chance to see bears in their environment, amid stunning scenery
• Sighting bears depends on wildlife activity; no guarantees
• The tour is suitable for travelers aged 8 and above, with no smoking allowed
• Includes round-trip transport and park entrance fees, simplifying logistics

The Overview: What the Chichagof Island Brown Bear Search Entails

This tour runs roughly three hours and departs from Hoonah’s Icy Strait Excursions Hub, making it easy to incorporate into your cruise or land-based visit. The experience revolves around exploring the rugged, less-traveled parts of Chichagof Island—home to the largest concentration of bears on the planet.

The itinerary involves small-group transport—a maximum of ten people—to various points on the island where the guides hope to locate bears. The journey is as much about learning as it is about wildlife observation. Your local Native guide shares stories about the area’s ecology and history, enriching your understanding of the ecosystem you’re observing.

What to Expect During the Tour

Pickup & Meeting Point

The tour begins at the 3rd Party Excursions Hub in Hoonah. Travelers should arrive at least 15 minutes early, ready for the adventure. Transportation is in a comfortable van with all individual seats, avoiding the discomfort of bench seating, and ensuring everyone has a good view.

Transportation & Group Size

A small group of no more than 10 travelers means you’ll get more personalized attention and a less rushed experience. The vehicle is designed for comfort, allowing you to enjoy the scenery en route to the island’s key wildlife viewing spots.

The Search for Bears

The core activity involves scanning the landscape for brown bears, which tend to be most active at certain times of day. Guides use their local knowledge and eye for detail to track signs of bears—like tracks, feeding sites, or even distant sightings. Notes from travelers suggest that success in spotting bears varies depending on the season and wildlife activity.

One reviewer mentioned, “We saw bears at the first stop,” describing it as a “wonderful experience,” while others acknowledge that “bears are not guaranteed” and that wildlife sightings are unpredictable. It’s important to appreciate this tour as a wildlife quest rather than a guarantee of bear sightings.

Viewing Experience

Expect to observe bears from a respectful distance, often from the safety of the vehicle or designated viewpoints. Guides may stop at creeks, rivers, or other promising areas, where bears may be foraging or crossing. According to traveler reviews, some have been lucky enough to see three bears, including a family of three, and others have seen deer or other wildlife.

Scenery & Wildlife Beyond Bears

Even if bears are elusive, you’ll enjoy the spectacular landscapes—the rugged coastlines, lush forests, and tidal zones that make Alaska’s wilderness so distinctive. Guides often share insights into Tlingit culture and local history, adding depth to the experience.

The Value of This Tour

Pricing at $163.63 per person might seem steep at first glance, but considering the inclusion of transport, a native guide, and park fees, it becomes a more reasonable investment. For wildlife enthusiasts eager for a personalized, small-group experience, the cost aligns well with expectations.

The small group size enhances the chances of meaningful wildlife sightings and ensures more flexible stops. Travelers have noted that guides are knowledgeable and eager to share stories, making the journey informative as well as adventurous.

What the Reviews Reveal

Many reviews praise the expertise of the guides, with comments like “Kora and her stories were amazing,” and “Gary was a great guide,” highlighting the importance of local, knowledgeable guides for a meaningful experience. On the downside, some travelers found the trip a bit too much of a drive without close-up bear sightings, especially if visiting outside of peak season. One reviewer lamented, “No bears, and the communication was poor,” which underscores the unpredictability inherent in wildlife tours.

The Reality of Wildlife Sightings

While bears are not guaranteed, the thrill of the search and the scenic backdrop make this a worthwhile outing. If you’re a lover of nature, photography, or simply the outdoors, you’ll find value in the effort. Remember, this is a wildlife chase, and patience is part of the game.

Transportation and Practical Considerations

• Pickup & Drop-off: Conveniently located at the Icy Strait Excursions Hub in Hoonah.
• Duration: About three hours, making it easy to slot into a broader day of excursions.
• Group Size: Max 10 travelers—favors a more intimate, less rushed experience.
• Transport: Van with individual seats, no bench seating, for better comfort and views.
• Cost Breakdown: Includes all fees, such as the USFS park entrance fee ($7), making the price more transparent.
• Children: Suitable for travelers 8 and older, with no smoking permitted.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and families wanting a small-group, guided experience. If you’re interested in seeing bears, enjoy scenic drives, and appreciate knowledgeable local guides, this tour hits the right notes. But if your main priority is guaranteed sightings, be prepared for the reality that wildlife viewing can be unpredictable.

Because it’s a shorter, focused trip, it’s perfect for those with limited time in Alaska or cruise passengers eager to add a wildlife component to their itinerary. The personalized nature of the tour makes it a good fit for travelers who prefer quality over quantity.

Final Thoughts

This Chichagof Island Brown Bear Search tour offers a genuine window into Alaska’s wilderness, guided by local experts who know the island’s terrain and wildlife. The small-group format means you won’t be just another face in the crowd, and the scenic backdrop ensures that even if bears stay elusive, the experience remains memorable.

The tour’s value lies in the expert guidance, stunning scenery, and the wildlife watching possibilities. It’s a trip that respects nature’s unpredictability while maximizing your chances to see Alaska’s iconic bears—and learn about their environment.

If you’re someone who loves exploring remote landscapes, appreciates personalized guides, and understands that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, this outing could be a highlight of your Alaska adventure.

What is the main focus of this tour?
This tour centers on searching for brown bears on Chichagof Island, with a focus on wildlife observation, scenery, and learning from local guides.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately three hours, making it a manageable excursion without taking up your whole day.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transport from the Icy Strait Excursions Hub is included, with all guests seated comfortably in a van.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, which helps ensure a more personal experience.

Are there any age restrictions?
Children must be at least 8 years old to join, and all minors need to be accompanied by an adult.

Are park entrance fees included?
Yes, the $7 USFS park entrance fee is included in the price.

What if we don’t see bears?
Since wildlife sightings depend on animal activity, sightings are not guaranteed. The tour aims to maximize your chances but nature can be unpredictable.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund, offering flexibility in case of changing plans.

What’s the best season for bear sightings?
While not explicitly stated, some reviews suggest that certain seasons, like mating season in spring, might be better, but sightings are never assured.

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes, but travelers should provide their ship name at booking and arrive at least 15 minutes early for pickup.

The Chichagof Island Brown Bear Search tour offers an authentic peek into Alaska’s wilderness, driven by passionate local guides and surrounded by breathtaking scenery. It’s a valuable experience for those who enjoy wildlife and want a more intimate exploration of the island’s remote landscapes. Real wildlife is never guaranteed, but the journey, stories, and views make it a worthwhile addition to your Alaska adventure. Whether you’re an avid photographer, a nature lover, or simply curious, this tour provides a genuine slice of Alaska’s wild heart.