Juneau: Pack Creek Brown Bear Viewing by Floatplane

Summary

Floatplane flight, wild bear watching and forest trails in Alaska

You’ll fly from Juneau by floatplane to remote Pack Creek Bear Sanctuary on Admiralty Island, hike forest trails with local guides, watch brown bears fish or nap along the creekbanks, and share a simple lunch outdoors. Expect raw Alaska weather and close-up moments with wildlife — it might just stay with you long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the slap of water against the floatplane as we skimmed off Juneau — it’s louder than you’d think, almost like a drumbeat under your seat. That short flight to Admiralty Island felt like crossing into another world. I kept looking out the window for any sign of bears below, but mostly it was endless green and tangled rivers. When we landed, our guide Sam grinned and handed out rain jackets (he called them “Alaska armor,” which made me laugh). The air smelled sharp and cold, with that wet moss scent you only get in real forest.

I’d read about Pack Creek being called the “Fortress of the Bears,” but walking those muddy trails with Sam pointing out claw marks on tree trunks — it hit different. We moved slow, sometimes stopping just to listen. There was this moment when a brown bear ambled out near the creekbank, totally ignoring us, focused on fishing for salmon. I remember my heart thumping so loud I wondered if anyone else could hear it. Someone whispered something about how many bears live here (Sam said around 1,800 on the island), but honestly I was too caught up watching the bear’s fur ripple as it shook off water.

Lunch was simple — sandwiches and strong coffee that tasted better than any café back home, maybe because my hands were freezing. The rangers at Pack Creek were friendly but firm about rules (no wandering off alone, keep your snacks packed up tight), and I get why now. It’s their job to keep both people and bears safe in this wild place. We didn’t talk much during the walk back; everyone seemed lost in their own thoughts or just listening to the wind through those tall spruce trees.

I still think about that quiet moment by the creek — just us and a couple of sleepy brown bears stretched out in the grass, nothing between except a little distance and a lot of respect. If you’re looking for some polished wildlife show, this isn’t it. But if you want to feel small (in a good way) next to something truly wild… well, you’ll remember Pack Creek too.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Brown bear viewing at Pack Creek

• Store luggage at warehouse
• Fly 25 minutes by floatplane to Pack Creek
• Meet Pack Creek rangers
• Explore shoreline and forest trails
• Observe brown bears fishing and resting

Top questions

How long is the floatplane flight from Juneau to Pack Creek?

The floatplane flight takes about 25 minutes each way between Juneau and Pack Creek Bear Sanctuary.

Are bear sightings guaranteed at Pack Creek?

No, bear sightings are not guaranteed as this is a wild environment. Bears are most active during mating season (late May-June) and salmon runs (late July-August).

Is lunch included on this tour?

Yes, lunch along with hearty snacks and water is included during your day trip to Pack Creek.

What should I wear for brown bear viewing at Pack Creek?

Dress warmly in layers suitable for rain; rain gear, jackets, and rubber boots are provided as part of your tour equipment.

Is kayaking available during this tour?

Kayaking is included from June 20th to July 20th due to limited bear activity during that period.

What is the minimum age for participants?

The minimum age allowed for this tour is 12 years old.

Are there restroom facilities at Pack Creek?

No, there are no restrooms or shelters at Pack Creek Bear Viewing Area; all waste must be packed out.

How physically demanding is this tour?

You should be fit enough to hike 1-2 miles through wilderness terrain; moderate fitness is required.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transportation from Juneau by van and floatplane, all National Park fees covered, certified local guides throughout your visit, plus rain gear (jackets and rubber boots) sized for you if needed. Lunch with hearty snacks and water is provided before returning in the afternoon — everything’s sorted so you can focus on spotting brown bears instead of logistics.