Chinitna Bay Bear Viewing Flight Tour from Talkeetna

Alaska , USA

Chinitna Bay Bear Viewing Flight Tour from Talkeetna

Active

6h - 7h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Witness Alaska's majestic brown bears in their natural habitat on this private flight tour from Talkeetna to Chinitna Bay. Enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour flight, taking in breathtaking views of volcanic peaks and wildlife along the way. Once landed, spend 3 hours observing bears as they forage for clams or fish on the banks of a serene river. Your experienced pilot and guide, with decades of bear guiding expertise, ensure a safe and informative adventure. Perfect for nature lovers and families, this exclusive experience promises unforgettable moments in the wild.

- Private scenic flight for up to 5 passengers(up to 750lbs total)
- 3 hours of bear observation in Lake Clark National Park
- Expert guidance with a personal touch from seasoned pilots
- Depart from Talkeetna with a round-trip flight included

Available options

Chinitna Bay Bear Viewing Flight Tour from Talkeetna

What's included

Private transportation

Government Fees

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Touch down on a secluded coastal beach—no runways here, just natural splendor. After securing the aircraft above the tide line, your experienced pilot transforms into your personal guide. With decades of bear guiding experience in Chinitna Bay, Udo and Tom offer unmatched insight and safety as they lead you along the shoreline and into the meadows, where wild bears roam freely.

Depending on the season, you may witness:

May–June: Bears foraging on sedge grasses and digging for clams during low tide.
Mid-July–September: Salmon-filled streams attracting hungry brown bears in impressive numbers.
You’ll spend approximately 3 hours on foot, observing these incredible animals in their natural element—unrushed, uncrowded, and unforgettable.

Along the way, watch for moose, brown bears, seals, and Beluga whales. Your route will take you past the stunning volcanic peaks of Mount Spurr, Mount Redoubt, and Mount Iliamna—a spectacular prelude to your day.

Stop 3 Pass by

Depart from Sheldon Air Service’s private hangar in Talkeetna and take to the skies in a classic wheel-equipped bush plane. This 1.5-hour flight to Chinitna Bay offers an unforgettable aerial tour of Alaska’s untamed beauty. Along the way, watch for moose, brown bears, seals, and Beluga whales. Your route will take you past the stunning volcanic peaks of Mount Spurr, Mount Redoubt, and Mount Iliamna—a spectacular prelude to your day.

What's not included

Please bring your own light snacks.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN NL

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Medium Activity Level - You will be getting in and out of a small airplane, walking on uneven / soft / wet terrain. Travelers should be able to walk a few miles.

Meeting point

We welcome all travelers at out hangar office. Upon arrival, please park behind our hangar. You can walk through the hangar and one of our team members will greet you and direct you to our office where you will meet our host and your pilot.

About Alaska

Alaska is the largest state in the United States by area, known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and vast wilderness. It offers a unique blend of adventure, cultural heritage, and unspoiled landscapes, making it a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Top Attractions

Denali National Park and Preserve

Home to North America's tallest peak, Denali National Park offers stunning landscapes, wildlife viewing, and outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and wildlife tours.

Nature 1-3 days Moderate ($10-$30 for park entry, additional costs for tours and activities)

Glacier Bay National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning glaciers, marine wildlife, and pristine wilderness. Best explored by cruise or kayak.

Nature 1-2 days Moderate to Expensive (depends on cruise or tour package)

Kenai Fjords National Park

Features stunning fjords, glaciers, and marine wildlife. Popular for wildlife tours, kayaking, and hiking.

Nature 1-2 days Moderate ($30 for park entry, additional costs for tours)

Anchorage

Alaska's largest city offers a mix of urban amenities and outdoor adventures. Visit museums, parks, and nearby wildlife refuges.

City 1-3 days Budget to Moderate

Fairbanks

Known as the gateway to the Arctic, Fairbanks offers unique cultural experiences, museums, and access to the Northern Lights and Arctic Circle.

City 1-3 days Budget to Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Alaska Salmon

Freshly caught and prepared in various ways, including grilled, smoked, or baked.

Main Course Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, can be prepared to suit different dietary needs.

Reindeer Sausage

Made from reindeer meat, often served as sausage or in stews.

Main Course/Snack High in protein and low in fat, a traditional Alaska dish.

King Crab

Alaska is famous for its king crab, often served steamed or in crab legs.

Main Course Rich and buttery, a must-try for seafood lovers.

Bannock

A traditional fried bread often served with jam or honey.

Bread/Dessert Can be made with various ingredients, including gluten-free options.

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Wildlife tours Dog sledding Helicopter tours Northern Lights viewing Spa visits Scenic cruises

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Alaska for pleasant weather, long daylight hours, and access to most attractions. It's ideal for wildlife viewing, hiking, and cruising.

5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F) 41°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Alaska Native languages, Spanish, Tagalog
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Alaska Time Zone (AKT, UTC-9), Alaska Daylight Time (AKDT, UTC-8) during daylight saving time

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in remote areas and during winter

Alaska is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to be aware of the unique challenges posed by its remote and rugged terrain, as well as its extreme weather conditions.

Important Precautions:

• Be prepared for extreme weather conditions
• Carry a map and compass, as cell service can be unreliable in remote areas
• Avoid hiking or exploring alone in remote areas

Getting there

By air

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from Anchorage city center
Fairbanks International Airport • 4 km (2.5 miles) from Fairbanks city center

By train

Alaska Railroad Depot (Anchorage)

By bus

Alaska Bus Lines Terminal (Anchorage), Fairbanks Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and convenient for getting around Anchorage, but services are limited in other parts of the state.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Downtown Anchorage South Anchorage Fairbanks Downtown

Day trips

Whittier

90 km (56 miles) from Anchorage • Full day

A small port town known for its stunning fjords, glaciers, and wildlife. Accessible by car or tour.

Talkeetna

180 km (112 miles) from Anchorage • Full day

A charming historic town known as the gateway to Denali. Offers unique shops, museums, and stunning views of the Alaska Range.

Hatcher Pass

100 km (62 miles) from Anchorage • Full day

A scenic mountain pass offering stunning views, hiking trails, and historic sites.

Festivals

Anchorage Market and Festival • June to August (weekends) Fairbanks World Ice Art Championships • March Alaska State Fair • August

Pro tips

Plan ahead and book accommodations and tours in advance, especially in peak season
Be prepared for extreme weather conditions and changing temperatures
Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance, especially when hiking or exploring remote areas
Support local businesses and communities by shopping at local markets and eating at locally owned restaurants
Consider hiring a local guide or joining a guided tour for a more immersive and informative experience