Bear Viewing at Pack Creek

If you’re dreaming of seeing Brown Bears in their element, the Pack Creek tour offered by Bear Creek Outfitters promises a chance to observe these impressive creatures in a stunning Alaskan setting. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, we’ve gathered detailed insights to help you understand what makes this experience special, and whether it’s right for you.

What stands out are the knowledgeable guides with over ten years of experience watching bears and the breathtaking views you’ll get during the scenic flight and wildlife encounter. On the flip side, the tour’s price might seem steep, but considering the all-inclusive nature and unique opportunity, many find it worth every penny.

This adventure suits travelers eager for authentic wildlife encounters in remote wilderness, those comfortable with small group settings, and anyone keen to learn about Alaska’s incredible brown bear population. It’s not ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues, given the need to board small float planes and navigate uneven terrain.

Key Points

• Unparalleled wildlife viewing: Close encounters with Brown Bears in their natural habitat, especially during peak salmon runs or mating season.
• Expert guides: Highly experienced wildlife guides enhance your chances of seeing bears and understanding their behavior.
• Scenic flights: The 25-minute floatplane ride offers stunning aerial views of Admiralty Island and the surrounding wilderness.
• All-inclusive package: Permits, transportation, high-quality spotting scopes, snacks, and water are covered.
• Limited group size: With a maximum of five travelers, expect a more intimate and personalized experience.
• Cost Consideration: At $1,500 per person, the experience is a premium but delivers a rare opportunity to observe Alaska’s bears up close.

An Honest Look at the Experience

The Journey Begins

Your adventure starts at the Bear Creek Outfitters office in Juneau, where you’ll be outfitted with rain gear, waterproof footwear, binoculars, and a high-end spotting scope. The small group format (maximum of five travelers) ensures a personal touch, and the guides’ deep knowledge is immediately apparent. They’re not just about spotting bears—they’re eager to share insights into bear behavior, ecology, and the importance of conservation.

Once geared up, you’ll board a floatplane for a scenic 25-minute flight over the rugged landscape of Southeast Alaska. The aerial segment is a highlight in itself, offering sweeping views of lush islands, dense forests, and shimmering waterways. For many, this flight elevates the experience from good to extraordinary, turning the wilderness into a living, breathing postcard.

Arriving at Pack Creek

The primary destination is the Stan Price Bear Preserve on Admiralty Island, famed for hosting the highest concentration of brown bears in the world. As you land, the sense of remoteness hits home—you’re truly venturing into wild territory. The estuary where the bears gather is about ten meters from your viewing point, allowing you to see bears in a variety of behaviors—digging for clams, foraging sedge grass, or playing with cubs.

The timing of your visit makes a difference. Visiting from May to mid-June aligns with mating season and summer foraging. During this period, you might catch bears engaging in courtship or mothers with playful cubs. Alternatively, a summer visit from mid-July to September during salmon runs offers the prime chance to witness bears fishing—arguably the most iconic bear activity.

What You’ll See and Experience

The bears’ proximity varies depending on their food sources and individual temperaments. Sometimes you’ll be just 30 feet away; other times, bears may be 1,000 yards out, focusing on distant foraging. Guides use their expertise to predict bear behavior, increasing your chances of a close encounter.

Photographers will appreciate the chance to capture bears with fish in their mouths or cubs playing, but we emphasize patience—bears are wild animals, and their movements can be unpredictable. According to reviews, guides are excellent at spotting bears and explaining their actions, enriching the experience beyond just watching wildlife.

Additional Highlights: Kootznoowoo Wilderness

After your time at Pack Creek, you’ll head over to the Kootznoowoo Wilderness for about an hour. Known as the Fortress of the Bear by the Tlingit people, this part of Admiralty Island is an equally impressive showcase of old-growth forests and bear habitat. The visit here offers a broader context for understanding the ecosystem that sustains these incredible animals.

Practical Details and Value

The cost of $1,500 covers all permits, transportation, high-quality gear, snacks, and water, making it a hassle-free experience. While it is a significant investment, the combination of scenic flights, expert guidance, and the chance to see bears so close makes it competitive for wildlife tours of this caliber.

The small group size means you’ll receive personalized attention and the guides’ undivided focus—important when wildlife sightings can be fleeting. On top of that, the inclusion of binoculars and a top-tier spotting scope ensures you won’t miss the details even from a distance.

Considerations for Travelers

This tour is ideal for adventure-seeking nature lovers who are comfortable with small planes and uneven terrain. Participants should be able to climb in and out of floatplanes, and the tour is not recommended for young children. The tour is non-refundable, emphasizing the importance of commitment when booking, and it operates with a minimum number of travelers—if that isn’t met, you might need to choose a different date.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those who dream of seeing wild bears in a pristine setting, this tour offers a unique window into one of the most vibrant ecosystems in North America. The combination of scenic flight, expert guides, and close-up bear viewing makes it a memorable experience, especially during peak seasons.

We love how the guides’ extensive experience enhances the chances of sightings and enriches your understanding of bear behavior. The views from the air alone are worth the price for many travelers, providing a perspective on Alaska’s wilderness that is hard to match.

On the flip side, the high cost and small-group nature mean this isn’t a casual outing. It’s geared toward travelers who prioritize wildlife encounters and are willing to invest in a high-quality, immersive experience. If you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see bears in their natural habitat, this tour delivers.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, including transportation, flight, and wildlife viewing time.

What is included in the price?
All permits, transportation to and from Pack Creek, scenic floatplane flight, binoculars, high-end spotting scope, snacks, bottled water, and a certified guide.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, private transportation from the meeting point in Juneau to the floatplane departure, and all transfers during the tour are included.

What should I bring?
Wear waterproof footwear, bring rain gear, and be prepared for variable weather. Binoculars and scopes are provided, but you can bring your own if preferred.

Are children allowed?
The tour isn’t recommended for small children. Travelers should be able to climb in and out of small float planes comfortably.

What if the minimum number of travelers isn’t met?
The tour requires a minimum number of participants; if not met, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
No, the booking is non-refundable. Be sure of your plans before booking this experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Bear Viewing at Pack Creek is perfect for travelers who value authentic wildlife encounters and are eager to experience Alaska’s wilderness in style. It suits those who appreciate the expertise of seasoned guides and are comfortable with small planes and outdoor adventures. It’s an excellent choice for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone looking for a meaningful connection with Alaska’s iconic bears.

In contrast, if you prefer a more relaxed, less weather-dependent activity or are traveling with very young children, this might not be the best fit. But for adventurous souls ready to see some of the most incredible wildlife in North America, this tour offers an unforgettable journey into the wilds of Southeast Alaska.