Traitors Cove Bear Viewing in Ketchikan, Alaska

Traveling to Alaska offers a chance to witness some of the most incredible wildlife encounters on the planet. While many visitors seek out whale-watching or totem tours, the Traitors Cove Bear Viewing experience offers an intimate look at Alaska’s black bears, salmon runs, and eagles in their natural habitat. Though it involves a bit of planning—booking 110 days in advance on average—this tour packs a punch with its stunning scenery and personalized guides.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the floatplane flight over the lush Tongass National Forest isn’t just a mode of transportation; it’s a scenic highlight that sets the tone for the adventure. Second, the expert guidance ensures you’re not just a passive viewer but an engaged participant, learning about the local ecosystem while spotting wildlife.

However, it’s worth noting that the cost of $575 per person might feel steep for some, especially considering the tour’s length—about 3.5 hours. While the flight is about 45 minutes of the total, the value lies in the quality of the wildlife experience and the personalized attention.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love nature, are comfortable with moderate physical activity, and are eager to see Alaska’s iconic wildlife in an authentic setting. If you’re after a memorable, guided outdoor adventure that combines scenic travel with wildlife viewing, this tour deserves serious consideration.

Key Points

• Stunning flightseeing tour over the Tongass National Forest
• Up-close wildlife viewing of black bears, bald eagles, and spawning salmon
• Expert guides provide personalized narration and safety
• Efficient, short walk to the viewing platform
• Limited groups (max 12 travelers) for a more intimate experience
• High customer ratings with genuine positive reviews

A Close-Up Look at the Itinerary

Starting with the scenic flight: Your adventure begins with a 20-minute floatplane ride over the verdant wilderness of the Tongass National Forest. It’s a chance to enjoy some of the best aerial views Alaska has to offer, with your pilot narrating along the way. We’ve heard from travelers like Tim who appreciated that “the float plane ride was beautiful,” setting a peaceful, awe-inspiring tone for the day.

Arrival at Traitors Cove: Once you land, a short drive transports you about a mile down a Forest Service road to the trailhead. The drive itself offers views of the forest and a chance for your guide to share insights about the local flora and fauna. The walk to the viewing platform is only about 250 yards—manageable for most and well worth it for the spectacle ahead.

The viewing experience: At the Margaret Creek platform, you’ll be at a prime vantage point to observe black bears feeding on salmon fighting their way upstream. The timing of the salmon runs is critical, and observing bears pluck fish from the rushing waters is a highlight. Guests have reported that seeing these “true champions of the tour” in action is unforgettable.

Wildlife interactions: Alongside bears, you’re very likely to spot bald eagles scavenging on leftover salmon scraps. This multi-species spectacle enhances the feeling of being in the middle of Alaska’s wild heart. The expert guide, with their knowledge and patience, helps you identify and understand these creatures, making the experience both educational and awe-inspiring.

Nature walk and additional details: The ¼ mile walk is designed to be safe and manageable, with guides pointing out plants, berries, and other wildlife along the way. It’s a rare chance to learn about the ecosystem from someone who truly knows the area.

Transportation, Duration, and Group Size

The round-trip flight is about 45 minutes, providing breathtaking views that are often the highlight for travelers. The entire experience lasts roughly 3 hours 30 minutes, with plenty of time to soak in the scenery and wildlife. Only up to 12 travelers are permitted per tour, ensuring personalized attention and a quieter, more immersive experience.

Transportation is private from your pickup point to the floatplane dock, making logistics straightforward. The inclusion of bottled water keeps you hydrated without extra fuss. Since the tour involves a moderate walk and a small aircraft, it’s suitable for travelers with average physical fitness.

What Travelers Say

The reviews paint a picture of a highly enjoyable, authentic experience. Tim describes it as “bear watching at its finest,” praising the “knowledgeable” guides and the “beautiful” floatplane ride. Luis highlights how “it was amazing” and appreciated that “all the people from the company were kind and really knew their stuff.” Such feedback underscores the quality of the guiding and the natural spectacle.

Pricing and Value

At $575 per person, the tour isn’t cheap, but considering the floatplane flight, guided wildlife viewing, and small group size, many travelers find it reflects good value. The personalized guides and small group numbers provide a more genuine, less touristy experience. Plus, the chance to witness the raw beauty of Alaska’s wildlife in a carefully managed setting is priceless for nature lovers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to adventurous travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those eager to see Alaska’s iconic animals up close. It’s well suited for those who are comfortable with a 250-yard walk and able to handle moderate physical activity. If you’re seeking a scenic flight combined with wildlife observation and enjoy guided educational experiences, this trip offers a balanced, memorable day.

The Sum Up

The Traitors Cove Bear Viewing tour offers a rare chance to see Alaska’s black bears in action, fighting salmon and living out their natural routines. The scenic floatplane ride over the Tongass National Forest is as much a highlight as the wildlife viewing itself, giving you a bird’s-eye perspective of Alaska’s wild landscape. With expert guides, small group sizes, and authentic encounters, this tour provides a genuine taste of Alaska’s wilderness.

While the price may seem high, the quality of experience and the chance to witness iconic species in their natural habitat makes the cost justifiable. It’s perfect for travelers who crave nature, adventure, and a bit of local insight in a well-organized, respectful setting.

If you’re seeking a high-impact wildlife safari that combines scenery, education, and authentic wildlife encounters, this tour may be just what you’re looking for. It’s a day that promises lasting memories of Alaska’s rugged beauty and its impressive creatures.

FAQs

Is the floatplane flight included in the price?
Yes, the round-trip floatplane flight over the Tongass National Forest is included in the tour price, providing stunning aerial views of the wilderness.

How long is the entire tour?
The total duration is approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, including the flight, transportation, walk, and wildlife viewing.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for all physical fitness levels?
It requires a moderate physical fitness level due to the short walk and some outdoor activity, but generally, it’s manageable for most guests.

What wildlife will I see?
You’re most likely to see black bears, bald eagles, and salmon during the spawning season. Guides will help identify and explain the species.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While not explicitly stated, the presence of spawning salmon and active bears suggests late summer to early fall may be ideal, but always check with the provider for specific timing.

Can I cancel if the weather’s bad?
Yes, if the weather is poor, the tour will be canceled, and you’ll be offered a full refund or a rescheduled date. The experience is weather-dependent, as flying and wildlife viewing require clear conditions.

In short, if you’re looking for an authentic, guided wildlife experience combined with a scenic flight in Alaska’s wilderness, the Traitors Cove Bear Viewing tour could be your perfect adventure. It offers more than just wildlife sighting—it’s a chance to truly connect with Alaska’s natural world while enjoying some of the best views and guides around.