juneau alaska bear tours

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Bear Viewing

Juneau is a perfect basecamp for bear viewing, one of alaska's greatest wildlife experiences..

Juneau is bear country. Our estuaries, avalanche chutes and salmon streams provide brown and black bears with all the things they need to flourish. What's more, we have so many bears here, you're bound to see one at some point. Read on to learn more about our bears and find out the best place to spot one (or several). 

About Bears

There are two main species of bear found in Juneau: black bears and brown bears. Don't be fooled, both bear species come in a variety of colors — they are not exclusive to their monikers — meaning black bears can be brown, and brown bears can be black. Black bears are smaller (adult males average 400 pounds) than brown bears, lack a shoulder hump and have a straight, flat-faced profile. Black bears can be black, brown, cinnamon-colored or, if you're lucky, you might even spot a rare blue or "glacier" bear, which also happens to be a variation of the black bear.

The coastal-dwelling, salmon-feeding brown bear also happens to be the same species of brown bear as the smaller grizzly living in Interior and northern Alaska. The brown bear is larger than the black bear, with a noticeable shoulder hump and longer claws. A male brown bear can weigh more than 1,000 pounds; females weigh half as much. One of the best places to observe brown bears is at the Pack Creek Bear Viewing Area on Admiralty Island .

There are tons of places in and around Juneau to see bears and other wildlife. Visit the Alaska Department of Fish and Game for a complete list of viewing locations.

When in bear country, always remember:

• Be aware of your surroundings, even in town.
• Never feed a bear, it's illegal. Store food in bear-proof containers away from camp.
• Never approach or follow a bear. Always leave the bear an escape route.
• If you encounter a bear, make noise, sing and clap your hands — let it know you're a human.
• A bear standing on its hind legs isn't threatening you; it's trying to identify you, so stand your ground.
• Never try to outrun a bear. Bears may instinctively chase anything that runs.

About Admiralty Island

The absolute best place to see brown bears is on Admiralty Island National Monument . The area is also known by the native Tlingít people as "Kootznoowoo," which translates to "fortress of the bears." Admiralty Island is home to an estimated 1,600 brown bears (no black bears here), one of the world's highest density brown bear populations — that's more brown bears than the Lower 48 combined! 

To see these furry giants in action, head to the island's Pack Creek Bear Sanctuary , located on the northeast corner of Admiralty Island. During summer months, you might see as many as 25 bears come together to feast on yummy pink and chum salmon. For optimal viewing, head to the "viewing spit" at the mouth of Pack Creek, or take the one-mile trek inland through old-growth rainforest and climb atop the Observation Tower. 

Peak season is July 5–Aug. 25, but the sanctuary is open from June 1–Sept. 10. Shoulder season is June 1–July 4 and Aug. 26–Sept. 10. While permits are available for purchase in Juneau, your best bet is to apply for a permit ahead of time. To make things easier, go with a guide - they source permits, arrange travel and provide expert knowledge about bear country. 

Getting Here

Just 40 miles from Juneau, Pack Creek makes for an ideal day-trip. There are no roads or accommodations, so the only way to get to the area is by floatplane, boat or kayak. A 30-minute floatplane ride provides the quickest and most direct method of transport from Juneau (versus a 3.5-hour boat ride). 

An air or marine charter provides transportation to-and-from the island, but you'll be responsible for sourcing your own permits. For those who want to stay the night, campsites and open shelters are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

More Information

For more information about Admiralty Island/Pack Creek, visit the U.S. Forest Service . For more information about bears and where to view them, visit the Alaska Department of Fish and Game . To book a charter or guided tour, browse through our local business listings (use the Adventures, Tours and Attractions tab on the right side of the page).

Helpful Tips

• There are no facilities (bathroom or shelter) on the island.
• Pack rain gear, snacks and extra clothing.
• Wear rubber boots, you might be unloading in eight to 12 inches of water.
• There is no cell phone service.
• Bring binoculars, a telescope or a camera with long telephoto lens.

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BVJU01 Admiralty Island – Pack Creek Bear Viewing Day Tour from Juneau

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The Pack Creek Bear Sanctuary on Admiralty Island is one of Alaska’s most accessible, and yet most wild, bear viewing areas. After the scenic flight from Juneau, we walk on the same ground as the bears. Human visitation is limited, allowing us to enjoy a wilderness bear viewing experience.

Pack Creek Bear Viewing Area on Admiralty Island has attracted bear viewers for decades. It’s often said that Admiralty, at 100 miles long and with nearly 700 miles of coastline, has the densest concentration of brown bears and bald eagles in the world. The true name of the island is Kootznoowoo, which in Tlingit means “fortress of the bears.” The observatory is surrounded by 95 square miles closed to bear hunting and offers a safe window into the lives of brown bears.  Please Note:  This tour can only be booked in combination with our vacation packages. 

Booking Request Inquire A Trip

Description

Prices & dates, rates in us $ / per person, what’s included.

Roundtrip van & float plane transportation

Forest Service Permit

Professional Guide

Rain jacket, pants & rubber boots

Lunch, Hearty snack & souvenir water bottle

Tour Departures

Daily from May 10th  – September 10th

Monica, CA: We were looking forward to this tour, and our experience was everything we could have hoped for and more. The day started out very overcast, but once we headed out on the seaplane, the skies cleared and we had an amazing day on Admiralty Island. The seaplane flight was delightful, and this comes from one who is not that wild about flying. We saw bears from the plane, and were even greeted at the beach by a bear as we landed. We were so lucky as we saw bears throughout the day in the area of Pack Creek and at the tower as a few bears fished for salmon. The bears on Admiralty Island are used to the presence of humans, but the rangers on the island, and the guides practice measures that insure the safety of the human visitors as much as is possible. It is a real treat to observe such amazing creatures in their own habitat.

Pack Creek Bear Tours

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Pack Creek Bear Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Excursions Pack Creek Bear Tours

Pack creek bear tours.

Departs from Juneau

Description

Your journey to Admiralty Island, the Fortress of the Bears, will begin from Juneau International Airport where you will be met by your trip leader, an experienced wilderness guide and naturalist.

The Pack Creek Bear Sanctuary is one of Alaska’s most accessible, and yet most wild, bear viewing areas. A 25-minute scenic float plane ride from the capital city of Juneau is all it takes to explore what the Tlingit Indians call Kootznoowoo, or Fortress of the Bears.

The Pack Creek Bear Tour is a premium package that allows just 2-5 people each day from early-May to mid-September the opportunity to explore some of the most prime bear country on earth and to observe these amazing animals in their natural surroundings.Your aircraft will land on the water and taxi to the beach where you will offload.

Once on the beach, you will be walking within the viewing estuary where bears are most likely to be seen foraging or fishing for salmon. A two mile roundtrip hike on a durable trail through the rainforest to the upper creek spawning grounds is also an option.

Time on the ground on Admiralty Island will be approximately five and a half hours. A box lunch and water will be provided.

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Unforgettable Bear Tours In Juneau, Alaska

Private & small group tours to the world's best destinations, three amazing alaskan vacations to choose from, summer trips to alaska grizzlies & glaciers tour.

Winter Trips To Alaska See The Northern Lights

Summer Trips To Alaska Denali Discovery Adventure

The Best Bear Viewing In Alaska!

Are there bears in Alaska? Yes! Alaska is Bear Country - and it is one of the few places in the world where all three species of North American bears live. Brown bears, black bears, and even polar bears can be found in Alaska. Many visitors travel to Alaska to see these magnificent creatures because the state has some of the best bear-viewing locations in the world .

Brown bears, also called grizzly bears, are found nearly everywhere in Alaska. Black bears inhabit most of Alaska’s forests. Polar bears frequent the sea ice and tundra of extreme northern and western Alaska. But for a truly memorable bear-viewing experience, consider taking a bear tour in Juneau, Alaska!

Five Fast Facts About Juneau

Juneau is the capital city of Alaska. It is located in the southeastern part of the state, on the Gastineau Channel, and is a popular destination for tourists. Each year, as many as 900,000 cruise ship passengers and an additional 100,000 independent travelers visit Juneau. The city features several attractions for visitors, but it is also a jumping-off point for Alaska cruise bear viewing as well as other types of bear tours in Juneau, Alaska!

Here are five fast facts about Juneau that many people don’t know:

• Juneau is inaccessible by road! Even though this city is located on the Alaska mainland, no roads connect it to the rest of Alaska – or North America! This means that everything, including visitors, arrives in Juneau by plane or boat.
• Juneau is metropolitan. Despite its remote location, Juneau is a thriving city. The state’s premier theater company can be found in Juneau, along with many clubs, bars, and restaurants. Visitors may come for bear tours in Juneau, Alaska, but they often stay for the city’s cosmopolitan flair!
• Juneau is BIG. The city and its surrounding municipality are larger than the state of Rhode Island.
• Juneau’s nearest neighbor is a giant glacier! One of the most famous glaciers in Alaska, the Mendenhall Glacier, is just 15 miles outside of Juneau. The Mendenhall Glacier is a top tourist attraction in Alaska, right after Alaska cruise bear viewing .
• Juneau is wild. The city, which is located 89 miles from the Tongass National Forest, is home to 280 species of birds, brown and black bears, five species of salmon, and whales.

Know Before You Go – The Bear Facts

Are there bears in Juneau, Alaska? Yes! Most visitors who want to see Juneau’s bears book a guided bear-viewing expedition to a prime viewing location. Other travelers may take a more DIY approach to their vacation, and plan out independent hikes to explore the many trails around the city and Mendenhall Glacier. But whether you go exploring on your own or travel with a group to see Alaska’s bears, there are a few key safety tips to keep in mind.

• Always make noise on a hike so you don’t surprise a bear. Stay alert and look for signs of bears in the woods.
• Never approach or crowd bears. To stay safe, you must respect their personal space.
• If you are camping (or picnicking) in bear country, keep food and garbage out of the bears’ reach.
• If you are approached by a bear, stay calm. Have your bear spray ready and stand your ground. Stay in a group and speak calmly. Do not run.
• Always give female bears with cubs extra space. Mother bears are fierce defenders of their young and may respond aggressively if they perceive a threat to their cubs.

Top Three Bear Tours Near Juneau

Are you looking for the best bear tours near Juneau, Alaska ? You’re in luck – we’ve picked three that we think you will love!

Bear Tour #1 – Waterfall Creek (Chichagof Island)

One of the best bear tours in Juneau, Alaska is at Waterfall Creek on Chichagof Island. To increase your chances of seeing a bear (or two), plan a visit between July 15 and September 10, when they are most active. Trips to Chichagof Island are by guided tour, as you will have to take a floatplane to reach it! Peak viewing season at Waterfall Creek coincides with the return of the salmon. During this trip, you can watch groups of bears fish from the rapids of a small river below a stunning waterfall. In addition to seeing bears, you can enjoy the rich, local history of this protected wilderness area.

Bear Tour #2 – Pack Creek Brown Bear Sanctuary (Admiralty Island)

If you ask a local “Are there bears in Alaska,” they will point you to Admiralty Island and the Pack Creek Brown Bear Sanctuary . Pack Creek is located on Admiralty Island, which is just a short floatplane ride from Juneau. This famous bear-viewing location was named “Kootznoowoo,” or “Fortress of the Bear” by Alaska’s Tlingit people. After you land on the island, your guide will take you on a short hike through the forest to the viewing location, where you can watch the bears from a viewing platform. Highlights of bear viewing on Admiralty Island include watching the bears eat sedges and clams, play with siblings, and fish for salmon in the creek. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy the sight of the native birds, mammals and marine life that thrive in the rich ecosystem of old-growth rain forest and coastal marine environments that exist in perfect harmony on the island.

Bear Tour #3 – From Sitka to Juneau

For a truly unique experience, consider booking an Alaska cruise with bear viewing . Many tour operators offer cruises from Sitka to Juneau, for a multi-day Alaska experience! When you book a trip like this, you will embark in Sitka, then spend a day cruising around the city’s waterways with a guided tour to learn more about the area’s Tlingit culture and the native wildlife. Along the way, you will visit Kasnyku Bay and Hidden Falls, where you can see Alaska’s coastal brown bears feasting on salmon before their winter hibernation. Later, you will sail south to Kuiu Island, to see black bears. Finally, enjoy a cruise around Tracy Arm, where you can see pristine waterfalls, abundant harbor seals, towering icebergs, and granite cliffs before docking in Juneau after a multi-day adventure of a lifetime!

Bears, Bears, And More Bears!

Alaska bear viewing is a one-of-a-kind experience. Whether you opt for bear tours in Juneau, Alaska, or at some other incredible viewing location in the state, you won’t be disappointed. From Alaska cruise bear viewing to more adventurous trips into the backcountry, Alaska has something for everyone. Now grab your binoculars and get packing – it’s time for a beary exciting adventure.

Download all three Alaska tour brochures for tour dates and pricing.

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Pack Creek Brown Bear Viewing

Venture to the fortress of the bears at pack creek.

Duration Day Trip About 8 Hours

Activity Hiking, Kayak, Wildlife Viewing

Highlight Brown bear viewing, float plane flight

Price From $989 per person

Difficulty Easy to Moderate

Transportation Meet at "C" Sign by the Mount Roberts Tramway

Experience The Trip

Join us for an unforgettable brown bear viewing adventure at the renowned “Fortress of the Bears” within the Pack Creek Bear Sanctuary, the premier coastal brown bear viewing area on Admiralty Island. Your day begins with a trip briefing and safety orientation lead by your experienced wilderness guide, followed with a breathtaking 25-minute floatplane flight to Pack Creek. Upon landing, you’ll be warmly greeted by the dedicated rangers of Pack Creek. Your guide will then lead you on a journey along the very paths the bears tread, guiding you through shoreline and forest trails to prime brown bear viewing locations.

Known as the “Fortress of the Bears,” Admiralty Island holds the Tlingit name Kootznoowoo, and it lives up to its title with an impressive brown bear population of approximately 1,800 brown bears. This island boasts one of the highest bear densities in the world, with roughly one brown bear per square mile. It’s home to about 10% of Alaska’s entire brown bear population, making it one of the most densely populated brown bear areas on the planet.

From the banks of Pack Creek, you’ll have the incredible opportunity to observe bears in their natural habitat, whether they’re clamming or foraging on beach greens, salmon fishing in the creek, or enjoying a nap in the tall grass. While we can’t guarantee wildlife sightings, the abundant bear population in the Pack Creek vicinity seldom disappoints. Brown bears are most active during mating season (late May – June) and annual salmon runs (late July – August). 

*** Kayaking can be included June 20th – July 20th due to limited bear activity. Enjoy the scenic, wilderness paddle along the coastline as you approach Pack Creek. 

We are grateful to the Tlingit village of Angoon for allowing us to share this part of their homeland with our guests. Pack Creek is an ecosystem teeming with diverse flora and fauna, providing abundant nourishment for the thriving brown bear population on Admiralty Island. Eagles soar over Admiralty’s lakes, their calls echoing in harmony with the diverse bird population. This experience is a true gem of Southeast Alaska, offering visitors the chance to closely observe and photograph wildlife in their natural environment.

See What It’s Like!

The trip itinerary, about 8 hours, pick up from downtown meeting location.

Van transport to ABAK base for outfitting and transport to floatplane base

Scenic Floatplane Flight

Enjoy the views of mountains and oceans as you leave the city behind

Brown Bear Viewing at Pack Creek

Cache your food in the bear-proof lockers!

**June 20th – July 20th kayaking will be included. Kayak portion 2 hours total and bear viewing 3 hours total.

Return Scenic Floatplane Flight to Juneau

Your van transport will be waiting to return you to the main office

Return to ABAK Base

De-gear at ABAK base and return transport to meeting location – Thanks for joining us!

Practical Info

Client pickup information.

Located at the base of the Mt. Roberts Tramway, the C-Sign is ABAK’s primary downtown meeting location for cruise passengers and clients staying in the downtown area.

Clients arriving at AJ Dock:

Clients who dock at the AJ Dock within 30 minutes of the ABAK pick-up time will be picked up directly from AJ DOCK.

Clients Staying Locally:

Clients can be picked up from any major hotel in the Mendenhall Valley.

Clients staying at major hotels in the Downtown area will meet at our Downtown meeting location.

ABAK is unable to provide pick-up in residential neighborhoods. Clients staying at private residences, Air BnB’s, VRBO’s, or have own transportation please contact our office for meeting location information at 907-364-2333 or [email protected].

• From $989 per person **Guests travelling June 20th – July 20th have the option to land at Windfall Island and kayak into Pack Creek.

(non-refundable $60 National Forest Service permit fee is included in all reservations)

Group Size:  Minimum of 4, Maximum of 5 –  Contact for availability.

Minimum Age Public Tour: 12 years old

Minimum Age Private Tour: 8 years old – Requires a minimum of 5 guests to book to make Private.

Book early! Pack Creek Permit space is extremely limited!

Included In The Price

• Professional guides
• Roundtrip van & float plane transportation
• US Forest Service permits
• Rain gear (hooded jacket, rubber boots and pants)
• Picnic lunch and Hearty Snacks
• Souvenir water bottle (we strongly encourage you to bring a reusable water bottle to help minimize waste)

Not Included In Price

• Hot shower at the end of the day, but you can book your unique stay with us.
• Professional Photography
• Gratuity for your Guide: If you feel that your guide went Above and Beyond to facilitate an exceptional experience, a gratuity is a welcomed way to show your appreciation.

Important Notes

• Bear Sightings are not guaranteed. This is wild Alaska!
• Due to aircraft restrictions, there is a 250 lbs per person weight limit on this tour. All passenger weights need to be provided at time of booking. Passengers may be weighed by float plane operator – those over 250 lbs may be subject to an additional fee.
• Our kayaks can accommodate a maximum torso (waist-chest) diameter of 55 inches (140cm). Maximum weight limit is 600 lbs (272kg) for double kayaks. People taller than 6’2” find operating the rudder challenging, as the pedals only adjust to a certain maximum distance; however, people as tall as 6’8” have been able to paddle our kayaks.
• The Pack Creek Bear Viewing Area is a wilderness area with no facilities, restrooms, or shelter on site. All garbage and waste must be packed out.
• All participants must agree to follow all guide and ranger direction, always stay with the group, store all food items in designated bear proof lockers, and keep all personal belongings on their person.
• Participants must be able to confidently hike 1-2 miles in the wilderness. Kayaking is offered June 19th-July20th and must be able to paddle up to 2 miles roundtrip.
• This trip operates in all weather conditions (barring unsafe conditions, to be determined by ABAK) – it is very important to dress to get wet.
• Clients must disclose information regarding pertinent medical conditions/history, allergies and any type of restriction or limitation that might introduce a higher degree of challenge on this trip.
• Every participant must sign a Release of Liability/Assumption of Risk Form at the start of the trip. Alterations and/or deletions to the form are not permitted.
• Due to various fitness abilities and weather variables, we prefer clients not schedule other excursions directly before or after our trip. Please let us know if you clients have another excursion booked on the same day.
• Due to the inherent risks involved in this type of tour, pregnant guests are not permitted to participate.

Departure Times: Daily, dependent on permits. *Please contact us for departure times and availability.

Dates of Operation: 

May 15 – June 19th and July 21st – September 10: Guests will fly directly to Pack Creek .

June 20th – July 20th: Guests will fly to Windfall Island and Kayak to Pack Creek

Group Size:***Pack Creek Permits from July 5 – August 25 are extremely limited Minimum of 4, Maximum of 5

Minimum Age:  12 years old – public tour

8 years old – private tour – must book out the full plane of 5 seats to make private

Activity Level: Easy to Moderate

Documentation Needed:

• Name of client(s)
• Cell phone contact number of client
• Desired trip date and departure time
• Name of cruise ship or hotel
• Participants’ ages, especially anyone under the age of 18
• Rain gear & shoe sizes (please specify male or female)
• Any pertinent medical issues, allergies or dietary restrictions
• Primary language spoken, if other than English

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Celebrating Twenty Years

Above & Beyond Alaska, LLC is a local, employee-owned guiding company based in Juneau Alaska. We have been exploring the region from ocean to ice for over 25 years and guiding others since 2002. Our goal is to provide a complete Alaskan wilderness experience by sharing with clients our passion for the outdoors, technical know-how, and natural history knowledge.

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PO Box 211202 Auke Bay, Alaska United States AK 99821

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Permitted by the U.S. Forest Service, Tongrass National Wilderness

Admiralty Island Bear Viewing by Kayak

Bear Viewing By Kayak: Wow!

This is a “true Alaska” full day of adventure combining the best in outdoor fun near Juneau including scenic flightseeing by floatplane, kayaking, hiking, and bear viewing.  Explore Admiralty Island, known by the Tlingits as “Fortress of the Bears”, and home to one of the highest bear densities anywhere in the world.

Your cruise excursion adventure begins here...

Jump into an unforgettable wildlife kayaking and brown bear viewing experience into the “Fortress of the Bears” on Admiralty Island. Meet your private guide and take off on a 25-minute scenic floatplane flight to Windfall Island. From here, jump in your kayaks and paddle to Pack Creek. This world-class wildlife viewing destination provides protected habitat for brown bears while affording visitors an opportunity to view and photograph wildlife up close. The Tlingit call Admiralty Island Kootznoowoo “Fortress of the Bears”, aptly named with approximately 1,800 brown bears – one of the highest bear densities anywhere on earth. Eagles are extraordinarily abundant along the shoreline, and the cries of loons haunt Admiralty’s lakes. This is truly one of the gemstones of Southeast Alaska.

From Windfall Island, kayak one mile to Pack Creek. Right at the mouth of the creek lies a sandy spit of land, one of the primary bear viewing locations, just a short beach hike from where floatplanes land and boats tie up. Slightly more challenging is a beautiful one-mile trail through an old-growth rain forest to a viewing tower. The tower has room for eight people and is an excellent place to watch bears as they roam directly below you.

Amenities, nearby adventures and more...

Your private excursion includes:.

• Services of professional guide
• Roundtrip private transportation from ship to floatplane dock
• Roundtrip flight between Juneau and Admiralty Island
• Use of double kayak and all paddling gear
• Healthy snack and bottled water

Special Notes:

• Participants must be at least 12 years of age
• Size and weight restrictions apply – please inquire for more details

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Alaska’s Wild Coast!

Premium Wilderness Trips in Juneau, Alaska. Carbon-negative tours you won’t find anywhere else!

Bear Viewing

Premium Alaska Bear Viewing in Juneau and the Tongass National Forest! Private and Small-Group Trips!

All of our tours are available for private and custom trips. Contact us for an easy quote!

Alpine Heli-Hiking

We are the first to offer Alpine Heli-Hiking in SE Alaska. These are all private trips! Come explore with us!

We have been facilitating and guiding film, exploration, and scientific projects for over 10 years!

Wild Coast Excursions offers all small-group and private wilderness trips. Our trips are authentic Alaskan experiences led by an expert local guide. Our intimate trips offer a superior experience always tailored to you. We are locally owned and operated and our trips support a healthy planet and communities.

We offer the best Alaska Bear Viewing Trips and Juneau’s only Alpine Heli-Hiking !

What Our Guests Say

“The excursion to Pack Creek to view the brown bears was the absolute highlight of our trip to Juneau late May… if you’re considering this trip, do it! You won’t regret it. You only live once and this is a once in lifetime experience.”

★★★★★ — Kristen A.

“Could not asked for a better experience with Peter… He provided amazing details about the scenery, clear instructions about using our gear, and over-delivered on our hopes for the day… Since that first trip, we’ve continued to join Peter on trips to Chichagof Island and around Juneau.”

★★★★★ — Kate F.

Proudly Offering Carbon- Negative Tours

We are a part of this region. As visitors and hosts it is our responsibility to leave it better than we found it. Discover more about what that means, and about our commitment to Alaska.

Amazing wilderness locations

We are proud to offer unique and world class fly-in brown bear viewing. Our Juneau, Alaska bear viewing trips are ideal for observing the natural and unaltered behavior of these amazing animals at different times in the season.

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We are the first to offer helicopter assisted alpine hiking trips in Southeast Alaska. A short flight drops your private group on a high ridge which is ours to explore for the day. This is the most unique helicopter tour in Juneau. Be one of the first ever to get this exclusive experience!

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“A must do in Alaska.

Not just the experience of seeing the Brown bears, but all that surrounds the trip. Our guide helped us tune into the natural environment – not just observe it but feel a part of it. With this energy we could approach the Brown bears safely and coexist with them in a way I didn’t expect…” “With the expertise of our guide we could be a part of their habitat. It was a memory I’ll carry forever.” ★★★★★ — Scott A.

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Wild coast gallery.

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We’d love to hear from you! Drop us a question or booking request and we’ll do our best to get back to you within one business day.

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Bear Creek Outfitters Bear Viewing Trips

(July 15 though September 10)

Brown Bear & Wilderness Viewing Adventure via Floatplane

Step into the wilds of Southeast Alaska for an astonishing brown bear and wildlife viewing adventure. Your exploration begins with a floatplane flight transporting you on a breathtaking scenic flight from the base in Juneau, providing unique access to brown bear territory. Escorted by an expert local guide, you’ll step off the plane and into an unforgettable adventure.

Your guide will share his/her knowledge of brown bears, and the wildlife and fascinating natural history of the area. Photographers and nature enthusiasts will marvel at this opportunity to discover the unexpected-a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows a rare look into the world of one of the grand and majestic animals of the great Alaskan wilderness. Minimum age is 8 years due to tour duration and the patience required for viewing wildlife. Wildlife sightings are likely but are not guaranteed.

Half-Day Trips

Enjoy a half day of bear and wildlife viewing near Juneau. We’ll pick you up and transfer you to our shop where you’ll meet your guide, and be outfitted in waders and rain gear. After a safety briefing, you’ll embark on a scenic flight by floatplane.

Cost: $979 per person. 

Contact: [email protected]

The tour includes:

• Transportation to and from downtown to the floatplane base
• Rubber boots & rain gear
• 50 minutes total scenic floatplane flight time
• Waterfall Creek permit
• 3 – 3.5 hours at remote Waterfall Creek location
• Post adventure snack
• The expertise of our certified guides
• Private Tours Arranged on Request

Please bring the following on your trip:

• With our ever-changing weather patterns layered clothing is always encouraged
• Camera with strong lens and fully charged or extra batteries A sense of adventure and love of the wilderness and its amazing creatures.
• Participants must be able to walk ¼ mile over uneven ground. We visit remote locations and advanced medical support will not be available. We recommend bringing along any necessary or simply precautionary medications.
• Guests are urged to be ready for an outdoor wilderness experience.

Experiencing Alaska with Bear Creek Outfitters, the largest guide service in Southeast Alaska.

Booking Policies 

• In order to secure your booking and trip date(s), we require full payment for your trip.
• We will always work with you to attempt to reschedule should you need to make changes to your itinerary.
• If you need to cancel your trip for any reason, the following is our cancellation refund policy:
• Cancellations made 60 days or more prior to your trip date: 100% refund of your trip cost, less a $75/person, non-refundable permit fee.
• Cancellations made 30-59 days prior to your trip date: 50% refund of your trip cost.
• Cancellations made less than 30 days prior to your trip date, including “no-shows” on the day of your trip, are non-refundable.
• If Bear Creek Outfitters cancels your trip for any reason, including as noted in our passenger weight surcharge policy, you will receive a 100% refund of your trip cost, less a $75/person, non-refundable permit fee.

Passenger Weight Surcharge Policy  We operate our trips using small aircraft that have restrictions on weight and balance for safety.  Therefore, any passenger weighing more than 250lbs (113kg) will be charged an additional $300 to help ensure adequate aircraft space.  Actual passenger weights are verified for each guest prior to departure.  If you or a member(s) of your party exceed 250lbs, please let us know at the time of booking, or as far in advance of your trip date as possible.  In the uncommon scenario that a guest does not provide prior notice of exceeding 250lbs, and additional aircraft space is not available, we reserve the right to cancel your trip.

View our Waterfall Creek Photo Gallery

Bear and wildlife viewing.

Your bear viewing trip will give you the chance to view and photograph a variety of wildlife in their natural settings. Eagles, other birds and harbor seals are commonly sighted on our trips. Brown Bears (also calledGrizzly are seen frequently, and we occasionally see, Sitka black-tailed deer, and otters as well.

All of the locations we go bear viewing are located in true wilderness. We often see eagles, bears, deer and whales while we are exploring their backyard. Many guests enjoy the setting as much as the bear viewing itself!

Please note:  Space is extremely limited. Full payment is required at the time of booking. Waterfall Creek bookings include a $75 non-refundable Alaska State Parks fee. Permit fee is non refundable for any reason, including cancelation due to weather. Permit fees allow the Alaska Department of Fish and Game to preserve this unique wilderness setting, and ensure a base level of funding through the short summer season.

Cost: $979 per person Please Contact: [email protected] (5 1/2 hours door to door.  We require a minimum of 3 people to run a waterfall creek trip)

BCO is proud to offer this exclusive once in a lifetime adventure!

Special use permit with the Tongass National Forest.

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Visiting Juneau is a capital idea

Low clouds hug the mountains at Mendenhall Lake near the Mendenhall Glacier Visitors Center in Juneau. (Marc Lester / ADN)

Juneau is flanked by white snow-capped mountains, fields of blue ice, verdant green forests and frigid turquoise waters. It’s the perfect destination for travelers who love cozy small-town vibes, as well as those who seek extreme outdoor adventures. Long the land inhabited by the Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian people, the capital city of Alaska got its Western name and infrastructure during the Gold Rush. This waterfront community is an outdoor enthusiast’s haven, and boasts that it has more miles of trails and mining tunnels than road (of which there are just 190).

Make sure you pack your rain gear, as this city of 32,000 gets about 70 inches of rain a year, and around 235 days of precipitation. But no matter the forecast, locals and travelers alike will be out enjoying nature. As the Scandinavians say, “There is no bad weather, only bad clothes.”

The absolute must-see for most travelers is the Mendenhall Glacier. There are many ways to see the glacier, depending on your level of comfort. The West Glacier Trail is by far one of the best bangs for your buck. While it includes a little bit of scrambling (up a waterfall, for example), the payoff is worth far more than it will cost you to get there. The trail is 3.5 miles out and back, growing slightly longer each year as the glacier melts, and brings you right up to the face of the glacier. Since the glacier is constantly receding, it’s no longer possible to get directly on the ice using this route without an experienced guide and equipment. For less experienced hikers, Above and Beyond Alaska offers guided hiking tours and Alaskan Binoculars offers rides to the trailhead.

For a more family-friendly or accessible option, Nugget Falls Trail brings you around the other side of Mendenhall Lake directly to a massive waterfall with views of the glacier from a bit farther away. (The short, informational video in the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center is the cheapest tour of Juneau you’ll get.)

The Goldbelt Tram station overlooks the Gastineau Channel and Juneau. (Marc Lester / ADN)

Liquid Alaska offers canoe tours that go across the lake to bring you to the face of the glacier. Or, if you’re feeling flush, you can charter a helicopter through Northstar , Coastal or Temsco Helicopters for a flightseeing tour that will land you on the glacier (tours cost $379 or more). Northstar’s Extended Helicopter Glacier Trek is the most adventurous tour for thrill seekers who want to maximize their time on the glacier, learn basic ice climbing techniques and explore more territory than the standard glacier trek tours. If you want to dogsled on a glacier, Temsco and Northstar both offer tours, both over $600.

If you’re looking for a more relaxing way to get up close to a glacier, take a full-day boat trip to Tracy Arm Fjord with Allen Marine Tours. Starting at $234, this seven-hour tour is an exceptional value and unforgettable experience. Enjoy cruising through a steep fjord, usually seeing whales, bears, eagles, harbor seals along the way. The trip culminates at one of the Sawyer Glaciers, which are often actively calving. Even if it’s cloudy or rainy, this trip is sure to be memorable and enjoyable — the glacier can look more blue when it’s overcast. If you’re looking for a shorter tour, several other companies offer two- to three-hour whale watching or city tours during the summer cruise ship season (check out Juneau Tours & Whale Watch and Allen Marine for options). If you’re seeking more water adventures, you’d be remiss not to try spotting whales and other wildlife as you ocean kayak in the Channel Islands State Marine Park on Above and Beyond Alaska’s kayaking with humpback whales tour.

For an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience, view brown bears up close and personal at Admiralty Island’s Pack Creek or Waterfall Creek, where U.S. Forest Service rangers accompany you as you view the animals in their natural habitat. The Tlingit people call this island “Kootznoowoo,” meaning “Fortress of the Bear,” for a reason. Sightseers are flown to the island by Ward Air . Both Bear Creek Outfitters and a new operator, Wild Coast Excursions , offer all-inclusive options starting at a thousand dollars a person, which includes permits, flights and other necessities.

If you’re more of a plant lover than animal lover, check out the upside-down tree gardens at Glacier Gardens . They also offer tours up the mountain in small trams during the summer season. A good place to see fireweed is along Point Bridget Trail. The drive out the road to this trail also makes for great views of the looming Chilkat Mountains. Cycling enthusiasts will enjoy Cycle Alaska’s 8.5-mile biking tour that stops at local breweries.

A pedestrian walks the Gold Creek Flume Trail on a soggy morning in Juneau. (Marc Lester / ADN)

Another top-notch Juneau experience is cabin camping. You can rent cabins online; however, weekends can generally get booked up to six months in advance, so make sure to book far ahead of time. Most public cabins are in the backcountry and require hiking your gear out. However, some private cabins that can be rented are more accessible, such as those at the Shrine of St. Therese or on Airbnb. Nights at Eaglecrest Ski Resort’s cabin, Hilda Dam, during the winter, and a city cabin, Amalga, are among the most coveted reservations in town.

Good family activities include walking along Sandy Beach on Douglas Island. Ruins from the old mine that collapsed there give the beach a historic vibe, and informational signs along the way entertain and inform little ones. The Mount Roberts Tram usually runs during the summer cruise season, and recently started offering tours from an Alaska Native perspective, celebrating the resilience and perseverance of Alaska’s Native population. Families can rent strollers and other baby travel necessities like hiking backpacks, car seats and high chairs from Gear Up Baby .

Clouds hang low over a residential area near downtown Juneau. (Marc Lester / ADN)

Here are some quick favorites if you’re looking for places to eat, drink, and shop:

Best value breakfast: Donna’s Restaurant

Best food in the Mendenhall Valley: Zerelda’s Bistro (check their Instagram for specials)

Best food downtown: In Bocca Al Lupo (the chef specials are where it’s at; chef Beau Schooler has been a James Beard Award semifinalist multiple times)

Best live entertainment: Crystal Saloon (visit their website for full list of shows)

Best food on Douglas Island: The Island Pub (try the salmon dip)

Best family dining: The Hangar on the Wharf (can’t go wrong with anything with the halibut, and there are great views of seaplanes taking off during the summer)

Best tacos: Deckhand Dave’s (only open in summer)

Best ice cream: Gelato by the pint from In Bocca Al Lupo

Best bar: Alaskan Hotel & Bar (especially on open mic nights or live music nights, check their Instagram for updates)

Best cocktails: Amalga Distillery (early hours — closes at 8 p.m.), The Narrows (late night)

Best craft brewery: Barnaby Brewing Co .

Best new restaurant: Alaskan Brewing Public House

Best place to drink with kids: Forbidden Peak Brewery

Best drunk food: Pel’mini’s (if you’re not drunk, try them anyway — in Juneau, these dumplings topped with butter, curry, cilantro, Sriracha and sour cream are a staple)

Best people watching: Triangle Club Bar and the downtown cruise ship docks.

Best place to nurse a hangover with salty popcorn and a Bloody Mary: Red Dog Saloon (also best kitschy decor)

Best coffee: The Grind Coffee Co.

Best shopping: Resolute Boutique , Treetop Tees

Best free samples: Free smoked salmon from Taku

Best cheap souvenirs: Alaska Shirt Co .

Best Instagram photo ops: The Whale Project , against the flower wallpaper at Amalga Distillery , Nugget Falls, holding crab legs at Tracy’s Crab Shack , atop the platforms on the top of the Mount Roberts Tram

Best souvenirs: Whale tail necklaces from various downtown jewelry stores, earrings from Kindred Post , whale tail salad tossers, Tlingit silver bracelets from Mt. Juneau Trading Post and others, kitschy matching shirts from the Alaska Shirt Co. , Alaskan Brewing Co . sweatshirts, smoked salmon from Taku Store , a Ray Troll “Spawn Till You Die” shirt

Best place to catch a sunset when it’s sunny: Bonfire on the Outer Point Beach on North Douglas or Auke Recreation Area

Most adventurous tour to do with kids: Alpine Zipline Adventure with Kawanti Adventures

Best activity to do with kids when it’s raining: Alaska State Museum

Best food when you’re cold from walking around in the rain: Old Friend Noodle Soup from Lemon Tree Cafe

The 16 Best Alaska Cruise Excursions for 2024

A cruise to Alaska is one of the best ways to visit many parts of the 49th state, including the Inside Passage and the southeastern port towns of Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway. You can also see dozens of glaciers on a cruise, plus remote places reachable only by water, like Glacier National Park & Preserve. Traveling by ship allows you to get closer to one-of-a-kind experiences in Alaska's interior, especially if you extend your vacation with a cruisetour (a package that includes the cruise and a land portion either before or after your voyage).

When it comes to excursions, many cruise lines offer the same experiences ashore for larger ports of call, often with a slight variation in the itinerary. The most popular tours highlight the best activities and attractions, such as the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour in Juneau, the Misty Fjords National Monument in Ketchikan and the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway in Skagway. You'll also find entertaining offerings from cruise lines that call on smaller, less visited ports, like Icy Strait Point (Hoonah), Sitka, Seward and Haines.

While some tours cost less than $100, don't be surprised to find over-the-top experiences that run about $750 per person – such as heli-flightseeing tours, where you'll land on a glacier and go dog-sledding with a team of Alaskan huskies. If you're comfortable with going it on your own, you might find lower prices on some excursions by booking directly with tour operators. Alaskan outfitters are used to working around cruise ship arrival and departure times, so their tours tend to fit into those schedules.

U.S. News has compiled this list to help you find the best Alaska cruise excursions, from the most popular (and affordable) options to once-in-a-lifetime adventures.

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Even though it's surrounded by water and mountains – and there's no road into town – Juneau is one of the most visited ports in Alaska, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors each summer. You'll find plenty to do in Alaska's capital, including whale watching tours, salmon bakes and more.

Mendenhall Glacier

The Mendenhall Glacier is one of the top attractions in Juneau, so many tours include a visit to the Tongass National Forest to view the 12-mile-long sheet of blue ice. Some cruise lines, like Princess Cruises , offer self-guided trekking excursions that include a ride on the Juneau Goldbelt Tram, which affords views of the Chilkat Mountains and other panoramic scenery. You can also opt to see the glacier from the water by boat or kayak, or on a float trip.

However, if you're going to splurge on any one excursion, it's this one: Sign up for a helicopter landing on Mendenhall Glacier, followed by a dog-sledding adventure with a team of Alaskan huskies. During the approximately 30-minute helicopter ride, you'll fly over rainforests and spectacular summits, but the real fun is when you arrive at the camp to go zipping through the snow led by your team of dogs and a professional musher.

The Mendenhall Glacier helicopter excursion is offered on Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line and Silversea Cruises.

Whale Watching and Wildlife Quest

Whale watching is another top activity when visiting Juneau, and many cruise lines offer several options for tours. Holland America Line has a five-hour, small-group excursion for just 20 guests; you'll search for humpback whales on a safari vessel, then hike on Mendenhall Glacier where you can look for beavers, Arctic terns, porcupines and black bears. If you prefer an even smaller group, Princess Cruises offers a 3.5-hour private whale watching tour for six people. Possible sightings include humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, eagles, harbor seals, lighthouses, glaciers and maybe even a bear along the shoreline.

One of Viking Ocean Cruises ' excursions, the Best of Juneau, lasts more than six hours and takes guests on a naturalist-led whale watching cruise by catamaran. Before heading back to shore, you'll have a lunch of local wild-caught Alaska salmon on remote Colt Island, followed by a scenic drive to Mendenhall Glacier to end the day.

Alaska whale watching and wildlife excursions are offered on Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

Taku Lodge Salmon Bake

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a 3.5-hour Taku Glacier Lodge Flight & Feast excursion that will tick several quintessential Alaska adventures off your bucket list. After flying over the Juneau Icefield (the fifth-largest ice field in North America) in a classic De Havilland seaplane, guests will land in the river at the historic Taku Glacier Lodge across from Juneau's largest glacier, the 5-mile-wide Taku Glacier.

A traditional Alaska salmon bake (with all the fixings) and drinks made with glacier ice are another highlight of the day. You might even see a black bear sniffing around for leftovers after your feast. Following lunch, take a walk in the lush Tongass National Forest before heading back from the wilderness.

Salmon bake excursions are offered on Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

Ketchikan sits at the southernmost entrance to Alaska's Inside Passage. It is one of the most visited ports in Alaska, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). Visitors come to this part of the state for the beautiful scenery, Alaska Native culture and fresh seafood, including Alaska salmon and king crab. And they just might enjoy an entertaining lumberjack show or floatplane ride to kick off their day while in town.

The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show

Watch Alaska's hearty lumberjacks battle British Columbia's tough woodsmen in a head-to-head competition to see who can win the title of "Bull of the Woods." The thrill-a-minute show – a guest favorite – features a 50-foot tree climb, ax throwing, log rolling, buck sawing and springboard chopping, along with plenty of lumberjack lore. Some lines, like Princess Cruises, offer just the show; it lasts a little over an hour, so there will be plenty of time for a self-guided tour of Ketchikan before heading back to the ship. You may also be able to book a combination tour that includes the show and an ax throwing lesson (plus a competition of your own), or a trip to Totem Bright State Park, where you'll learn about the significance of totem poles and the Native Tlingit and Haida cultures.

Holland America Line offers a tour with the lumberjack show and a feast of local Dungeness crabs. For another culinary option, check out the 3.5-hour excursion with Norwegian Cruise Line . It includes a visit to Saxman Native Village, where you'll sample smoked wild game meats, dine on chef-selected dishes prepared with regional ingredients, and taste local wines and beers.

Lumberjack shows are offered on Alaska voyages with Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises , Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

Bering Sea Crab Fisherman's Tour

Embark on the Aleutian Ballard, the Bering Sea fishing boat made famous by the Discovery Channel's "Deadliest Catch" television series. The approximately three-hour excursion gives guests a firsthand experience of what it's like to sail on the vessel as a Bering Sea crab fisherman and catch massive king crabs, octopuses and other marine life with 700-pound crab pots. The boat may also stop at nearby Annette Island, where you'll have the chance to see whales, sea lions, seals and bald eagles soaring overhead (one may even try to snag your catch!). You may also get to watch local fishermen at work.

Some lines that offer the fisherman's tour include Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

Misty Fjords by Floatplane or Cruise

The more than 2 million-acre Misty Fjords National Monument is one of the top attractions in Alaska . Described by naturalist and author John Muir as "the Yosemite of the North," the awe-inspiring destination is best viewed from above on a floatplane. From the sky, you'll see towering 1,000-foot waterfalls, the volcanic Revillagigedo Island, snowcapped peaks, verdant forests and 3,000-foot walls of granite descending into the fjords. On a floatplane tour, you'll also have the chance to land on the water and take in the spectacular scenery from another viewpoint.

If you're not a fan of small planes, some lines offer the option of taking a cruise from Ketchikan's harbor. You'll sail into Behm Canal surrounded by the scenery of Misty Fjords, and you may even see wildlife or bald eagle nests. You'll also cruise by Eddystone Rock, a massive volcanic spire emerging from the sea, as well as waterfalls and 3,000-foot cliffs sculpted by glaciers.

Cruise lines that offer floatplane or cruisetours of Misty Fjords include Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Viking Ocean Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

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Skagway is another busy and popular cruise port in Alaska. It's one of the most popular towns on the Inside Passage itinerary; its fascinating Klondike Gold Rush history dates back to 1897. Take notice of the historic false-front shops reminiscent of the gold rush days as you explore. Many of these buildings are part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, and you may even see people strolling down the streets dressed in period costumes.

White Pass & Yukon Route

One of the top-rated attractions in Skagway is the White Pass Summit Scenic Railroad journey through Alaska's wilderness. The narrow-gauge railroad is an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark – an honor shared by the Panama Canal, the Statue of Liberty and the Eiffel Tower. Dating back 125 years, the historic railway features vintage rail cars and climbs to a steep 2,865 feet at the summit over just 20.4 miles. Along the way to the summit – located at the official international border between the U.S. and Canada – you'll listen to the history of the Klondike Gold Rush while passing by Inspiration Point, Dead Horse Gulch and Bridal Veil Falls. After making a loop at the top, the train will head back down the mountain. You might even see snow on the ride if your cruise to Alaska is early in the season .

Excursions on some lines combine the rail journey with other activities, like biking on the Klondike Highway from the summit or visiting Liarsville, a gold rush trail camp. Others include a stop (and a cold beer) at the Skagway Brewing Company. In addition, some cruise providers offer the train ride in a luxury class rail car, which includes complimentary beverages, snacks and a private guide who will explain the history of the railroad as you watch the scenery pass by.

Norwegian Cruise Line's six-hour excursion features a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route, a salmon bake at Liarsville and an adult beverage with one of the "madames" at the renowned Red Onion Saloon. Meanwhile, Silversea Cruises ' new 5.5-hour tour includes the train ride; a trip to the Yukon Suspension Bridge, which sits 65 feet above the white water rapids of the Tutshi River; and a hearty lunch of bison chili.

Cruise lines that offer the railroad (and combination) tours include Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Musher's Camp and Sled Dog Discovery

If you want to cuddle with Alaskan husky puppies, then this excursion is for you. Norwegian Cruise Line's approximately three-hour excursion takes guests to a professional musher's summer camp in Dyea Valley, where they train sled dogs for the Yukon Quest and Iditarod races. After a thrilling ride into the rainforest on a four-wheel-drive vehicle, you'll head out on a summertime dog sled with 16 Alaskan huskies at the helm. Before puppy play time, you'll learn how the mushers care for the dogs and prepare for the races. Depending on the cruise line, some tours may end with roasting s'mores by the fire.

Some lines that offer this excursion are Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float Adventure

The historic Chilkoot Trail was the main route for those in search of untold riches during the famous gold rush years. Today, the trail, located in Gold Rush National Historical Park, is a rainforest full of birds and wildflowers. Excursions to the park include hikes with river floats on the Taiya River (there are no rapids) or bike tours of the trail. There are also wilderness kayaking outings to Chilkoot Lake, which is home to the five species of Pacific salmon, waterfowl, bald eagles and one of the largest brown bear populations in southeast Alaska.

Some cruise lines that offer these excursions include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Sitka is the only community in the Inside Passage that sits on the Pacific Ocean. The small city – home to just 8,500 residents – was owned by Russia before the U.S. purchased the land in 1867. Today, you'll find remnants of this Russian heritage, like onion-shaped domes and Saint Michael's Russian Orthodox Cathedral. Sitka also has a strong Tlingit culture. In terms of shore excursions, you'll find plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing surrounded by pristine landscapes.

Sea Otter and Wildlife Quest

Royal Caribbean International's three-hour jet boat cruise on Sitka Sound features panoramic scenery (including snow-capped peaks) and the chance to see abundant wildlife. During the tour, look for playful sea otters, whales and brown bears walking along the coast. The line also offers another tour – Sea Otters, Raptors and Bears Oh My – that features a naturalist-guided catamaran cruise followed by visits to the Alaskan Raptor Center (a rehabilitation center for birds of prey) and the Fortress of the Bear (a rescue operation for orphaned bears).

In comparison, Carnival Cruise Line 's VIP wildlife quest in search of whales, sea otters, coastal brown bears and more concludes with a feast of wild salmon cooked over a wood-fired grill, Alaska crab and prime rib at the Fin Island Lodge. Following a wildlife Zodiac cruise around the archipelago, Holland America Line's version of this excursion also visits the lodge for lunch in partnership with Food & Wine magazine.

You can find this excursion on Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

The Best of Sitka

Several cruise lines offer a version of this tour, which features an exploration of the top attractions in Sitka. On this excursion, you'll visit the Fortress of the Bear in Tongass National Park to learn about the facility's work with orphaned bears. There's also a stop at Sitka National Historical Park, where the 1804 "Battle of Alaska" between the Russians and the Tlingits was fought. Here, you'll see handcarved totem poles created by skilled Tlingit artists and get to meet local Native artists to learn more. The excursion also includes a visit to the Alaska Raptor Center.

Lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Icy Strait Point (Hoonah)

Icy Strait Point in Hoonah may be a much smaller port than others on this list, but it is a jumping-off point for endless outdoor explorations, including whale watching tours and searching for coastal brown bears. Icy Strait Point is Alaska Native-owned and -operated and is home to the largest Native Tlingit village in Alaska. While here, explore the wilderness areas of Chichagoff Islands, visit the 1912 cannery museum, and grab lunch with fresh Alaska king and Dungeness crabs before taking a ride on the world's largest ZipRider. (Or, play it safe and plan to take that ride down the mountain before lunch.)

Whale Watching & Bear Search

The waters surrounding Icy Strait Point host the largest summer population of humpback whales in the state, especially around the Point Adolphus area. If you purchase a tour directly with the Icy Strait Point website, they'll even guarantee you'll see whales – or they'll refund your money. During the tour, look for orcas, Steller sea lions, porpoises and seals. But be sure to also gaze overhead for bald eagles and search along the shore for bears; the Spasski River Valley in the remote wilderness of Chichagof Island has one of the highest densities of coastal brown bears in the world. Some cruise lines offer a variation of this excursion that includes a boiled seafood feast back on shore at Icy Strait Point.

You can find this excursion on voyages with Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Scenic Mountain Ascent & World's Largest ZipRider

Thrill-seekers (who love heights) will jump at the chance to ride the world's largest and longest zip line, which sits more than 1,300 feet above sea level at the top of Icy Strait Point. The ride to the summit on the SkyGlider mountaintop gondola is also a rush, but the real excitement comes as you zoom down 5,330-foot zip lines with five other riders at 60 mph – with views of the forest below and Glacier Bay National Park in the distance. A break-activated landing on the beach brings riders safely back to the ground. The price also includes unlimited rides on the gondola.

Cruise lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises , Viking Ocean Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

A less visited port than some others on this list (according to CLIA), Seward is the ancestral home to the Alutiiq, or Sugpiaq, people. Its breathtaking natural beauty – with mountains on one side and Resurrection Bay on the other – has been shaped by glaciers over thousands of years. Top attractions in Seward include the Alaska SeaLife Center and a charming downtown area. It also offers access to Kenai Fjords National Park.

Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise

During your stop in Seward, take a full-day excursion to see the astounding beauty of Kenai Fjords National Park. The impressive fjords are surrounded by mountains standing more than 6,000 feet tall and an ecosystem rich in wildlife. While there, watch for a variety of whale species, sea otters, porpoises and sea lions, and onshore, you might see bears and mountain goats. There are also 191 documented species of birds in the park and many glaciers. As you get up close to Holgate Glacier, listen as chunks of blue ice calve into the water.

Some cruise lines, such as Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, offer this as an individual tour, while others like Holland America Line include it as part of a cruisetour. You can also book the excursion directly with a local tour operator if you're embarking or disembarking in Seward.

Haines, a small port about 20 miles north of Skagway, is best known for its Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. The 49,000-acre preserve has the largest natural gathering of eagles during the late salmon runs and boasts pristine forests, marshlands and rivers brimming with wildlife.

Glacier Point Wilderness Safari

Norwegian Cruise Line's five-hour excursion takes guests on an adventure into the wilderness by boat while cruising North America's deepest and longest fjord, the upper Lynn Canal. You might even see breaching whales and playful sea lions en route to Glacier Point, where you'll disembark at the beach upon arrival. After a drive through the forest and a hike in the woods, you'll have unforgettable, up-close views of the Davidson Glacier by canoe.

Lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line and Silversea Cruises. Holland America Line offers this excursion from Skagway.

Eagle Preserve Rafting Float Adventure

Look for bald eagles soaring overhead as you raft down the gentle Chilkat River through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. The waters are overflowing with salmon that come to spawn, serving as food for as many as 400 bald eagles living in the Chilkat Valley. Don't be surprised to see brown bears or 1,600-pound moose coming to feast along the riverbank during your rafting adventure.

Some lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Lin e. Holland America Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Viking Ocean Cruises host this excursion from Skagway.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News & World Report contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times both by land and sea to view wildlife and chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She's even considered moving to The Great Land as a full-time resident. Pratesi used her deep knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

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• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• The Best Alaska Cruises for Families
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