Floatplane from Juneau to a narrow creek where grizzly bears gather to fish beneath a waterfall. Expect a 25-minute scenic flight, close but regulated shoreline viewing, and interpretive time with certified local guides.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You arrive at a low-slung floatplane hangar as the ferry and tide-slick channels hiss in the background. A 25-minute floatplane ride lifts you over densely forested islands of the Tongass; granite ridges and black spruce slip past below, and the air smells of salt and damp cedar. The plane sets down near a narrow estuary where Waterfall Creek pours over ledges — the creek's drop slows salmon in late summer and the bears come to work.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Light fitness required — able to board a floatplane and stand/walk on uneven shoreline for up to a few hours.
Wildlife
History
Guides and local pilots identified Waterfall Creek as a reliable bear-viewing spot decades ago; permits and guided etiquette have since formalized visits to protect wildlife.
Conservation
Operators work under permit rules to limit disturbance; stay on guide-designated viewing areas and avoid bringing food to minimize human-bear interactions.
Reserve your spot on the Bear Viewing at Waterfall Creek today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer up for coastal weather
Temperatures can shift quickly; bring a waterproof outer layer and warm mid-layer even on sunny mornings.
Bring motion-stabilized optics
A spotting scope or binoculars with image stabilization helps pick out bears at 20–75 yards and watch feeding behavior.
Expect wet shorelines
Non-slip, closed-toe shoes are necessary for boarding the floatplane and standing on slick rocks or muddy banks.
Charge extra camera batteries
Cool temperatures and long days of shooting drain batteries fast; bring spares or a small power bank.
Waterproof jacket
Keeps you dry from spray and sudden rain typical of Southeast Alaska.
summer
Sturdy waterproof shoes
Provides traction on wet rocks and safe boarding of the floatplane.
summer
Binoculars or spotting scope
Extends your view beyond the immediate shoreline for detailed bear behavior observation.
summer
Warm mid-layer (fleece)
Adds insulation during cool mornings and wind on the water.
spring