Float 30 air miles from Juneau to Admiralty Island and watch brown bears at Pack Creek—spring brings cubs and courtship, while July–September is prime for salmon‑fishing action. This guided, permit‑managed viewing combines a short floatplane flight with shore‑based observation and expert interpretation.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of a 25‑minute floatplane and the forest exhales—salt air, cedar, and a distant thrum of surf. A narrow estuary threads through sedge and alder; brown bears move like living geography, focused, curious, sometimes playful. Guides position a high-quality scope while the group settles onto the shoreline bench, the creek running cold and insistent, daring each bear closer.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Light physical ability needed—must be able to board a floatplane and stand/walk on uneven shoreline for a few hours.
Wildlife
History
Admiralty Island has long been used and named by the Tlingit; the island’s bear populations and salmon runs shaped local subsistence and culture for centuries.
Conservation
Pack Creek viewing operates under strict permits to limit human impact; visitors are asked to follow Leave No Trace principles and respect wildlife viewing protocols.
Reserve your spot on the Bear Viewing at Pack Creek today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Expect wet, uneven ground
Wear waterproof footwear with good traction—shoreline can be muddy and slippery, and you’ll be standing for extended periods.
Bring binoculars and a camera with zoom
Guides provide a spotting scope but personal optics help you follow moving bears without crowding the viewing area.
Listen to your guide
Guides set viewing distance and safety rules—obey them to protect both people and bears.
Charge spare batteries
Cold and extended scope use drains batteries quickly—bring spares in an inner pocket to keep them warm.
Waterproof hiking boots
Keep feet dry and stable on muddy estuary banks and wet grass.
Waterproof breathable jacket
Protection from drizzle, wind and spray during the floatplane transfer and shoreline viewing.
Binoculars (8–10x)
Essential for tracking bears at variable distances without approaching wildlife.
Warm base layers and hat
Temperatures can be cool even in summer; layers trap heat and dry quickly.