Guided Bear Viewing

Northwind Aviation & Destination Alaska

Guided Bear Viewing to Chinitna Bay and/or Silver Salmon in Lake Clark National Park. If weather and tides allow, this trip will often make 2 stops.

-Check In: Our Beluga Lake Office is located at 1184 Lakeshore Drive in Homer Yes, we have parking options for various vehicle types. Inquire about a shuttle should you be in a motorhome over 30 ft long. Parking can be limited for extra large vehicles. Check-in times will vary day to day due to weather and tides. Our staff can give you a general idea of your check-in time however it is best to keep the entire day free should there be any weather or schedule delays. We will call, text, or email you the day prior to confirm your check-in time. Please note that check-in time is not departure time. There is no need to arrive earlier than the scheduled time. Often times we'll be dispatching another flight so please do not arrive more than 10 minutes early. At check-in you will be fitted with hip boots, sign a waiver (if not already signed online), and weigh in. If we are on an extended weather hold at that time, we will update you and often send you out to grab coffee or breakfast depending on how long we expect the hold to be. Check-in time to departure time will likely vary from 45 minutes to an hour +. Once your pilot gives the go ahead, we will shuttle you to the airport which is just a short couple minute drive from our office.

Though we send you with hip boots, you won't always need them. Be sure everyone has on waterproof hiking shoes or boots or rain boots such as XtraTuff, Bog, Muck, etc.

This trip involves moderate hiking and requires good physical abilities. You will be walking approximately 2-3 miles on sand, meadows, and muddy tidal flats. Our aircraft require all passengers to safely climb stairs/steps to access the aircraft cabin. Please let the office agent know if you have any physical limitations, health issues, or fears with flying in smaller aircraft so we can address those concerns prior to your trip. If we feel on the day of your trip that you are a safety risk to yourself or the safety of the group, we will require you stay behind and no refund will be issued.

What to bring:

• Day Pack: generally, a backpack with a closed zipper or drawstring bag, that can be carried hands free. No tote bags, grocery bags, glass or coolers will be permitted.
• Lunch and/or snacks (avoid fish products and keep all food items sealed/contained) - This is relatively short excursion. You'll have a few moments upon arrival and before departure to have a quick bite. Remember: Leave no trace! Not even a crumb. These locations are wild and we do our part to keep them that way.
• Brimmed hat and/or a beanie should the weather call for it
• Sunscreen though most days you won't need it
• Layered clothing (fleece, moisture wicking, quick dry apparel or wool clothing is best, avoid cotton)
• Insect spray
• Rain Jacket
• Camera, batteries, lenses, memory cards
• Bottled water
• Binoculars
• Hip waders will be provided for this trip should we need them - wear waterproof hiking shoes or waterproof boots. Bring two pairs of socks for a better fit. Belt looped pants are recommended for convenience to tie up hip waders, but not required.
• Bring any medications that you may need for serious medical conditions for a 48-hour time span. Although rare, it is possible with Alaska conditions we may be gone longer than expected.

Do not bring bear spray, flares, horns, or weapons of any kind. Smoking is not permitted on flights or during the trip

Duration: Roughly 5 hours *Length of trip could be more or less depending on the route flown, wildlife activity, and weather. We recommend you avoid having any plans directly after your trip. If we have morning weather delays, it will push back your arrival back to Homer.

Thank you for choosing Northwind Aviation for your bear viewing adventure! We look forward to meeting all of you this summer and if you have any questions regarding your trip, please do not hesitate to call or text the office (907)435-4011