Pack Creek Brown Bear Viewing Juneau

If you’re considering a trip to Alaska and want to see its iconic wildlife — specifically, the brown bears that call Admiralty Island home — this Pack Creek Brown Bear Viewing tour is worth a strong look. While we haven’t personally joined this exact adventure, the reviews and details paint a clear picture of what to expect: a well-organized, immersive experience into the remote wilderness that offers a real chance to observe bears in their natural habitat.

What we really like about this tour is its small-group format, which promises a more intimate, personalized encounter with nature, and the inclusion of a floatplane ride adds a true sense of adventure and scenic beauty. Plus, the combination of kayaking and wildlife viewing makes for a varied day that appeals to those who want more than just a bus tour.

One thing to consider is the price point—at $1,099 per person, it’s on the premium side, but for many, the exclusivity, access to limited permits, and the quality of experience justify this. This tour tends to attract travelers who are serious about wildlife and wilderness and are prepared for a full-day outdoor adventure.

If you’re curious about wildlife, comfortable with some physical activity, and eager to explore Alaska’s more untouched corners, this tour will likely be a good fit.

Key Points

• Exclusive access to the Pack Creek Brown Bear Viewing Area, which has the highest concentration of brown bears in the world.
• Small-group experience limits the tour to just 10 people, ensuring more personal attention and better wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Multiple modes of transportation, including floatplane flights and kayaking, for a varied and scenic day.
• Includes gear, snacks, lunch, and transportation, providing convenience and comfort.
• Permits are limited and go fast, so early booking is essential.
• Not suitable for pregnant travelers and requires a moderate fitness level, including some hiking.

The Itinerary and What It Means for You

This tour is designed to give a full day of adventure, beginning with pickup from your Juneau hotel or cruise port. From there, it’s a combination of scenic travel and active exploration.

Floatplane Flight Over Tongass National Forest

The day kicks off with a floatplane ride over some of Alaska’s most stunning landscape — the Tongass National Forest and the Inside Passage. We loved hearing that the flight itself is a highlight, offering breathtaking views of lush forests, rugged coastlines, and perhaps even a glimpse of marine life below. Many reviews mention how magical this part of the trip is, with one guest describing the floatplane ride as “amazing.”

Landing on Windfall Island and Kayaking

Once on Windfall Island, you’ll receive a safety briefing before setting out in kayaks across Windfall Harbor. The kayaking part is a chance to enjoy Alaska’s waters at a relaxed pace, with guides leading the way. The experience is described as fun and adds a sense of adventure, but be prepared for the physical effort involved—it’s manageable for those with a moderate fitness level, as noted in the requirements.

Approaching Pack Creek for Bear Viewing

After paddling to the mouth of Pack Creek on Admiralty Island, you’ll leave your kayaks and follow your guides into the wilderness on foot. This part is where the real magic happens—observation of bears in their native environment. The guide will take you to lookout towers and strategic spots where you’ll see bears playing in meadows, fishing for salmon in streams, or swimming in the rivers.

Watching Bears in Their Habitat

What makes this experience special is the high likelihood of seeing brown bears in action, thanks to the limited number of permits issued exclusively to tour operators. As one reviewer noted, “We saw a mama and two cubs,” which is exactly the kind of encounter travelers dream about. Guides are trained to position you safely and respectfully so you can enjoy the wildlife without disturbing it.

Return and Reflect

After ample time watching the bears, you’ll kayak back to Windfall Island, take the floatplane back to Juneau, and be transported to your original meeting point. The entire day is around 8 hours, packed with scenic vistas and wildlife sightings.

The Experience and What It Means for You

The reviews emphasize how knowledgeable guides enhance the trip. For example, Amanda_A mentioned that Kelsey’s warmth and experience made the day better than expected. You’ll be in good hands with guides who know the area and how to maximize wildlife sightings while keeping safety a priority.

Many travelers also comment on the stunning views—the combination of flying over forests and navigating lakes and harbors offers plenty of photo opportunities. The inclusion of snacks, lunch, and gear, such as rain jackets and boots, means you don’t need to worry about packing too much — the tour handles the essentials.

Is It Worth the Cost?

While $1,099 might seem steep, the value lies in the limited permits, the small group size, and the variety of activities packed into one day. Many reviews highlight how the experience exceeds expectations, with sightings of multiple bears and even cubs, plus the added thrill of flying and kayaking.

Considerations and Practicalities

• Physical Fitness: You should be comfortable walking 1-2 miles and engaging in light hiking. As the wilderness areas have no facilities on site, you’ll need to pack out all waste.
• Weather Preparedness: Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable. The tour provides rain gear and boots, but dressing in layers and bringing waterproof clothing is always a good idea.
• Wildlife and Permits: Bear sightings aren’t guaranteed — this is wild Alaska, after all. Patience and a bit of luck are part of the experience.
• Booking in Advance: Since permits are limited and tend to sell out quickly, early booking is essential to secure your spot.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This outing suits travelers who are passionate about wildlife and outdoor adventure. If you enjoy active days with a mix of scenic flights, kayaking, and wildlife observation, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s also ideal for those who understand the importance of respecting wildlife and are comfortable with some physical activity in a wilderness setting.

It’s less suitable for pregnant travelers or those who prefer a more relaxed, all-vehicle sightseeing tour. Also, if you’re prone to bad weather or dislike unpredictable outdoor conditions, be prepared for that and plan accordingly.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
This tour is generally geared toward travelers aged 12 and older, mainly because of the physical activity involved and the wilderness setting. It’s perfect for adventurous families with older kids who enjoy outdoor exploration.

How long does the entire trip last?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, including pickup, flights, kayaking, bear viewing, and return transport. It’s a full-day commitment but packed with memorable moments.

What’s included in the price?
All transportation (van, floatplane, kayak), gear (rain jackets, boots), snacks, lunch, and park fees are included. This makes it a convenient option since most logistics are handled for you.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, there is a 250-pound weight limit per person, which is standard for small aircraft. You’ll need to provide your weight during booking to ensure compliance.

What if the weather is bad?
This experience operates in all weather conditions unless safety is a concern. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Do I have a guarantee of seeing bears?
No wildlife tour can guarantee sightings, but this area has the highest concentration of brown bears in the world, increasing your chances significantly.

Final Thoughts

The Pack Creek Brown Bear Viewing tour from Juneau truly stands out for its combination of adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty. It offers a rare glimpse into Alaska’s wilderness with a well-organized, small-group approach that enhances the experience. While the price is on the higher side, the inclusion of flights, kayaking, and expert guides create a package that’s hard to match.

This tour is best suited for travelers who crave authentic wildlife encounters and don’t mind a full day outdoors. If you’re prepared for physical activity, weather variability, and the unpredictability of wildlife sightings, it provides a unique and fulfilling adventure in one of the world’s most remarkable wilderness areas.

Whether you’re an avid photographer, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply someone eager to see bears in their natural habitat, this experience promises moments that will stay with you long after you’ve left Alaska’s shores.