Chichagof Island Tour: Brown Bear Search
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on a small-group, 3-hour land based tour of Chichagof Island. The community of Hoonah, with a year round population of approximately 850, is located in the northern part of Chichagof Island. The vast majority of the island is pure, uninhabited, Alaskan wilderness teeming with wildlife! Chichagof Island has the highest population of bears per square mile of any place on Earth.
Available options
Tour
Small-group, 3-hour land based (Van) tour of Chichagof Island. Chichagof Island has the highest concentration of brown bears of any place on Earth.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Picks Up & Drops Off at Icy Strait 3rd Party Excursions Hub
Local Native guide
Small Group Tour - Max of 10
All individual seating in van, no bench seating
USFS $7.00USD Park Entrance Fee
Detailed itinerary
1
Shop at Hoonah's #1 Gift Store! Gifts, Snacks, Drinks!
What's not included
Gratuities (Never expected always appreciated)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.9
97 reviews
5★
53
4★
10
3★
13
2★
11
1★
10
Tripadvisor
3.8
76 reviews
5★
41
4★
8
3★
8
2★
9
1★
10
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tour Time is Departure time. Please meet 15 minutes prior at the Icy Strait Excursions Hub
Each Child on tour must be accompanied by an adult
No Smoking
At time of booking, cruise ship passengers must provide ship name
Children Under the age of 8 are not permitted on this tour
While we endeavor to find bears on this tour we cannot gurantee sightings
Meeting point
DO NOT USE THE 108 CANNERY ROAD ADDRESS ON GOOGLE TO FIND THE PICK UP POINT.
IT IS NOT CORRECT IN GOOGLE AND WE HAVE NO CONTROL OVER THAT!!
We meet guests at the Icy Strait Exclusive 3rd Party Excursions Hub. The Excursions Hub is a short 5 minute walk from where the ships dock or tender in to.
Important notes
Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour is scheduled to depart, out of courtesy to others we leave on time.
If your ship is docked at the Adventure Dock, proceed ashore to the Icy Strait Point Adventure Center. Once inside the Adventure Center walk through the building and EXIT through door number "2". Follow the signs along the gravel path to the Excursion Hub. This is an outdoor meeting area. The total walking time is 15 minutes, please allow extra time if you are not a fast walker.
If your ship is docked at the Wilderness Dock this is a 40 minute walk, or you may ride the Transporter Gondola (3 minute ride) to the Adventure Center. If you walk, once you arrive at the Adventure Center follow signs to the Excursion Hub. If you take the Gondola, once you step off of gondola you should see a sign to the Excursion Hub. Take a left and follow path to the Excursion Hub.
Please check in with the Hoonah Travel Adventure Representative when you arrive at the Hub!
About Hoonah
Hoonah, known locally as Xunáa, is a picturesque town located on Chichagof Island in southeastern Alaska. It is the largest Tlingit community in Alaska and offers a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, rich Native American culture, and outdoor adventure opportunities. The town is surrounded by lush rainforests, pristine fjords, and towering mountains, making it a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Top Attractions
Icy Strait Point
Icy Strait Point is a popular tourist attraction offering stunning views of the surrounding fjords and mountains. It features a historic cannery, a zip-line adventure, and guided nature walks.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate
Hoonah Indian Association Cultural Center
The Hoonah Indian Association Cultural Center showcases the rich Tlingit heritage of the region. Visitors can learn about the history, art, and traditions of the Tlingit people through exhibits and guided tours.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to Moderate
Glacial Adventures
Glacial Adventures offers guided kayaking and hiking tours to nearby glaciers and fjords. Visitors can explore the stunning natural landscapes and learn about the local ecosystem.
Adventure
Half day to full day
Moderate to Expensive
Must-Try Local Dishes
Salmon
Freshly caught salmon, often grilled or smoked, is a staple of Alaskan cuisine. It is typically served with local vegetables and grains.
Main Course
Gluten-free, but may contain allergens like fish.
Halibut
Halibut is another popular seafood dish in Hoonah, often served grilled or fried with a side of local vegetables.
Main Course
Gluten-free, but may contain allergens like fish.
Berry Jam
Made from locally foraged berries, this jam is a delicious treat and a great souvenir to take home.
Dessert
Vegetarian, may contain allergens like nuts.
Popular Activities
Kayaking
Hiking
Zip-lining
Wildlife viewing
Scenic boat tours
Spa and wellness
Visiting the Hoonah Indian Association Cultural Center
Participating in cultural workshops
Best Time to Visit
June to August
The summer months offer the best weather for outdoor activities, with mild temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the ideal time for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. The town also hosts several cultural events and festivals during this period.
10°C to 18°C
50°F to 64°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Tlingit
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Alaska Time Zone (AKST - UTC-9, AKDT - UTC-8 during daylight saving time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Hoonah is a small, tight-knit community with a low crime rate. However, visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to ensure their safety.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious when exploring remote areas
- • Always follow safety guidelines for outdoor activities
- • Avoid leaving valuables unattended
Getting there
By air
- Hoonah Airport • 5 km from city center
Getting around
Taxis
Available • Apps:
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Downtown Hoonah
Portage Cove
Day trips
Admiralty Island National Monument
30 km from Hoonah • Full day
Admiralty Island is known for its dense population of brown bears and stunning natural landscapes. Visitors can take guided tours to observe bears in their natural habitat and explore the island's lush forests and rugged coastline.
Juneau
80 km from Hoonah • Full day
Juneau, the capital of Alaska, offers a mix of cultural, historical, and outdoor attractions. Visitors can explore the Alaska State Museum, Mendenhall Glacier, and the historic downtown area.
Festivals
Hoonah Days • Mid-July
Icy Strait Point Native Celebration • Late July
Pro tips
- Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Dress in layers and be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
- Respect local customs and traditions, and ask for permission before taking photographs of people or sacred sites.
- Join guided tours for a safer and more informative experience, especially when exploring remote areas.
- Support local businesses and cultural experiences to contribute to the community's economy and preservation of its heritage.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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