Bear Viewing at Pack Creek
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6h
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About this experience
The Brown Bears at Pack Creek range in size from small cubs of the year to large males coming in over 1000lbs.
May to Mid-June is mating season and summer foraging. We see
bears interact in a variety of ways and courtship behavior is common, we also often see bears digging for clams, or eating sedge grass. This is also a great time to watch sows playing with cubs, and the best time for encounters with large males.
Mid-July to the end of September are the various Salmon Runs, this is when the bears go to work. The bears focus is on fishing. The primary viewing location is about ten meters from the creek. This is when we often see the most bears in view at a given moment, and the only time to get a picture of a bear with a fish in its mouth.
Viewing distances at Pack Creek can be as close as 30ft away or as far as a 1,000yds out, depending on the individual bear and which food source they are using.
Available options
Private Trip
Private Guide<br/>Cessna 206 Float Plane: Private Flight<br/>Customized times<br/>Pickup included
Pack Creek Solo Traveler
Join a group<br/>Shared Seaplane<br/>Pickup included
Bear Viewing at Pack Creek
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Bottled water
Snacks
Rain gear, waterproof footwear, individual binoculars, and group high-end spotting scope
Certified Guide
All Pack Creek Permits and Transportation fees are included
Detailed itinerary
1
Ursos Arctos Terriblis, sometimes called the North American Grizzly, though around here we refer to them as Brown Bears. Come see these amazing bruins in their natural habitat with some of the most experienced bear guides in SouthEast Alaska, each of our wildlife guides has over ten years watching successive generations of bears at Pack Creek.
Our Pack Creek Adventure offers an opportunity to view bears at the Stan Price Bear Preserve on an estuary within the Admiralty Island Wilderness.
We will pick you up in our van and outfit you at our office before you board a float plane for the 25 min scenic flight to Pack Creek, located 30 air miles outside of Juneau, on Admiralty Island National Monument. Once you have landed and made your way to the shore your guide will introduce you to the amazing wilderness location of the Pack Creek Bear Preserve.
2
The native Tlingit people call this impressive island “Kootznoowoo,” meaning “Fortress of the Bear.” Indeed, Admiralty Island is home to the highest concentration of brown bears in the world. Nearly 100 miles long, with 700 miles of saltwater shoreline that encompass its roughly 1 million acres, this verdant gem of old-growth rainforest graces the northern part of the Southeast Alaskan panhandle’s Inside Passage.
What's not included
Guide Gratuities not included - typically 5-10%
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Not recommended for small children
Travelers need to be able to climb in and out of small float planes.
Meeting point
Our office is located in the Ward Air Parking Lot between Ward Air and Coastal Helicopters
Important notes
If you need to be picked up; please coordinate the pick up location ahead of time with our office: 907-723-2683
About Juneau
Juneau, the capital of Alaska, is a unique blend of rugged wilderness and vibrant city life. Nestled between the Gastineau Channel and towering mountains, it offers stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and abundant outdoor adventures. As the only U.S. state capital accessible only by boat or plane, Juneau provides a sense of remoteness and untouched wilderness that is truly unparalleled.
Top Attractions
Mendenhall Glacier
Mendenhall Glacier is one of Juneau's most iconic natural attractions. This massive river of ice is surrounded by lush forests and offers stunning views, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Nature
2-4 hours
Free (Visitor Center has a small fee for some exhibits)
Juneau-Douglas City Museum
The Juneau-Douglas City Museum offers a fascinating look into the history and culture of Juneau and the surrounding region. Housed in a historic building, the museum features exhibits on the Gold Rush, Native Alaskan heritage, and the city's development.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (donations appreciated)
Tracy Arm Fjord
Tracy Arm Fjord is a breathtaking natural wonder located about 70 miles south of Juneau. This stunning fjord is home to towering waterfalls, glaciers, and an abundance of wildlife, including seals, bears, and bald eagles.
Nature
Full day
Varies by tour operator (typically $150-$250 per person)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Alaskan King Crab
A delicacy in Alaska, Alaskan King Crab is known for its sweet and tender meat. It is typically steamed or boiled and served with butter or in crab dishes like crab legs or crab cakes.
Dinner
Gluten-free, but check for any allergens in sauces or accompaniments.
Salmon
Alaskan salmon is renowned for its freshness and flavor. It can be grilled, baked, or smoked and is often served with local sides like roasted vegetables or wild rice.
Dinner
Gluten-free, but check for any allergens in sauces or accompaniments.
Bannock
A traditional Alaskan bread made with flour, baking powder, and water, often cooked over an open fire. It can be sweet or savory and is a staple in Alaskan cuisine.
Snack
Vegetarian, but may contain gluten.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Kayaking
Wildlife viewing
Scenic boat tours
Visiting museums and cultural attractions
Enjoying local cuisine and shopping
Visiting the Juneau-Douglas City Museum
Attending local festivals and events
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season in Juneau, offering the warmest weather and the best conditions for outdoor activities. The long daylight hours, known as the 'Midnight Sun,' provide ample time for exploration. Wildlife is active, and the city hosts numerous festivals and events.
10°C to 18°C
50°F to 64°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Tagalog
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Alaska Time Zone (AKT, UTC-9)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Juneau is generally a safe city for visitors, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed and reputable tour operators for outdoor activities and adventures.
- • Let someone know your plans and expected return time when exploring the wilderness or hiking in remote areas.
Getting there
By air
- Juneau International Airport • 12 km (7.5 miles) from city center
Getting around
Public transport
The Juneau Transit System offers affordable and convenient bus service throughout the city. Buses are well-maintained and frequent, making it easy to get around without a car.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Juneau Taxi
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Downtown Juneau
West Juneau
North Douglas
Day trips
Tracy Arm Fjord
113 km (70 miles) • Full day
Tracy Arm Fjord is a breathtaking natural wonder located about 70 miles south of Juneau. This stunning fjord is home to towering waterfalls, glaciers, and an abundance of wildlife, including seals, bears, and bald eagles.
Glacier Bay National Park
160 km (100 miles) • Full day
Glacier Bay National Park is a stunning natural wonder located about 100 miles west of Juneau. The park is home to numerous glaciers, mountains, and wildlife, including whales, bears, and bald eagles.
Admiralty Island National Monument
48 km (30 miles) • Full day
Admiralty Island National Monument is a stunning natural wonder located about 30 miles south of Juneau. The island is home to the largest concentration of bald eagles in the world, as well as a variety of other wildlife, including bears, seals, and whales.
Festivals
Alaska Folk Festival • April
Juneau Jazz & Classics Music Festival • June
Juneau WhaleFest • November
Pro tips
- Pack layers and waterproof clothing, as weather in Juneau can be unpredictable and change rapidly.
- Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during the summer tourist season, as they can fill up quickly.
- Bring a camera and binoculars for wildlife viewing and photography, as Juneau is home to a variety of unique and majestic animals.
- Try local Alaskan cuisine, including fresh seafood, game, and unique dishes like bannock and akutaq.
- Explore the city's museums and cultural attractions to learn about the rich history and heritage of Juneau and the surrounding region.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
