Fortress of the Bears Pack Creek

Deep within Alaska’s renowned Tongass National Forest lies a natural fortress where majestic brown bears reign supreme. Pack Creek, a haven for these apex predators, beckons adventurous souls seeking to witness the raw power and captivating behaviors of these magnificent creatures. Fueled by abundant salmon runs, the bears thrive in this untamed wilderness, offering visitors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to observe mothers teaching their cubs and the sheer dominance of the bears as they claim their rightful place in this natural wonder. Step into the realm of the bears and unlock the secrets of this extraordinary ecosystem.

Key Points

• Pack Creek in Alaska’s Tongass National Forest is renowned for its thriving population of majestic brown bears, making it a prime wildlife viewing destination.
• Visitors can embark on a breathtaking floatplane flight over the rugged landscapes of the Inside Passage to appreciate the grandeur of the untamed environment.
• Guests can explore the area through serene kayak excursions in Windfall Harbor, where they may spot bald eagles and otters in the delicate ecosystem.
• Guided hikes through the Tongass National Forest offer opportunities to witness the bears in their natural habitat, with a chance to observe their behaviors up close.
• The abundance of brown bears in the Pack Creek area allows visitors to catch glimpses of these captivating creatures, including mother bears teaching their cubs and friendly sparring matches.

Overview of Pack Creek

Pack Creek, nestled within Alaska’s Tongass National Forest, is a renowned wildlife viewing destination renowned for its thriving population of majestic brown bears.

The area’s rich ecosystem and abundant salmon runs make it a prime feeding ground for these impressive creatures.

Visitors have the unique opportunity to observe the bears in their natural habitat, often catching glimpses of them playing in meadows or fishing for their next meal.

The limited number of visitor permits available ensures a personalized and immersive experience, allowing guests to fully appreciate the beauty and power of these magnificent animals.

Whether it’s witnessing a mother bear teaching her cubs or marveling at the sheer size of these apex predators, a trip to Pack Creek promises an unforgettable encounter with the wild wonders of Alaska.

Floatplane Flight Over Passage

The journey begins with a breathtaking floatplane flight over the rugged landscapes of the Inside Passage, offering guests a bird’s-eye view of the region’s stunning natural beauty.

Soaring over the pristine waters and towering mountains, the plane provides an exhilarating introduction to the Tongass National Forest. Passengers can admire the intricate network of islands, inlets, and fjords that characterize this remarkable coastal wilderness.

The flight offers a unique perspective, allowing travelers to fully appreciate the sheer scale and grandeur of this untamed environment before touching down in Windfall Harbor.

This awe-inspiring aerial experience sets the stage for the adventure that lies ahead, whetting the appetite for the wildlife encounters to come.

Kayaking Through Windfall Harbor

After the exhilarating floatplane flight, guests then embark on a serene kayak paddle through the tranquil waters of Windfall Harbor.

Gliding silently across the mirror-like surface, they enjoy the intimate surroundings, keeping a watchful eye for any signs of wildlife activity along the shoreline.

The guide provides detailed commentary, pointing out notable features and highlighting the importance of the harbor’s delicate ecosystem.

Paddling through the picturesque coves and inlets, guests have the opportunity to spot bald eagles soaring overhead or otters playfully swimming nearby.

The calm, protected waters offer a peaceful respite before the next adventure at the Pack Creek Brown Bear Viewing Area.

Guided Hikes and Bear Viewing

Upon disembarking the kayaks, guests set out on guided hikes through the lush, verdant landscapes of the Tongass National Forest, meticulously scanning the terrain for any signs of the majestic brown bears.

Accompanied by a knowledgeable naturalist guide, they navigate the well-marked trails, learning about the region’s unique flora and fauna while keeping a watchful eye for the elusive creatures.

With patience and keen observation, they may be rewarded with breathtaking sightings of the bears feeding on salmon in nearby streams or playfully frolicking in the open meadows.

These guided excursions offer unparalleled opportunities to witness the bears in their natural habitat, fostering a deep appreciation for the wilderness and the delicate balance of the ecosystem.

Opportunities to Observe Bears

Guests on the guided hikes often catch glimpses of the majestic brown bears as they forage for salmon in nearby streams or playfully romp through the open meadows, offering unparalleled opportunities to observe these captivating creatures in their natural habitat.

With the small group size and expert guidance, visitors can witness the bears’ behaviors up close without disturbing them. Whether it’s watching a mother bear teaching her cubs how to fish or seeing two large males engage in a friendly sparring match, the experience is truly awe-inspiring.

The Pack Creek area is renowned for its abundant bear population, and guests are likely to see multiple bears throughout the course of the day.

Inclusions and Booking Considerations

The tour package includes round-trip transportation, all necessary equipment, lunch, snacks, water, park fees, and gratuities. Travelers should be aware of the weight limit of 250 pounds per person and the minimum of 4 participants required to operate the tour. Plus, guests must sign a release of liability form prior to the excursion.

Inclusions	Booking Considerations
Roundtrip Transportation	Weight Limit: 250 lbs
All Necessary Equipment	Minimum Participants: 4
Lunch, Snacks, Water	Release of Liability Form
Park Fees & Gratuities	Advance Booking Recommended
	Tour Likely to Sell Out Quickly

This comprehensive tour package ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for visitors to the Fortress of the Bears Pack Creek.

Tour Details and Meeting Point

The full-day tour departs from downtown Juneau, with participants meeting at the specified location.

Guests will then embark on a floatplane flight over the Inside Passage, taking in the stunning scenery of the Tongass National Forest from the air.

Upon arrival at Windfall Harbor, the group will transfer to kayaks for a peaceful paddle before setting out on a guided hike to the Pack Creek Brown Bear Viewing Area.

This moderate hike covers 1-2 miles, and while bear sightings aren’t guaranteed, you will have the opportunity to observe the majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Lunch, snacks, and water are provided throughout the day, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience.

What to Expect on Tour

Participants can expect a full-day adventure in the heart of Alaska’s Tongass National Forest, immersed in the natural beauty and wildlife of the region.

From the breathtaking floatplane flight over the Inside Passage to the guided hikes in search of majestic brown bears, the tour promises an unforgettable experience.

After the aerial journey, guests will embark on a gentle kayak paddle through the serene Windfall Harbor, keeping an eye out for bears and other marine life.

The guided hikes will bring visitors up close to the bears in their natural habitat, with opportunities to observe them playing in meadows or catching salmon.

Throughout the day, guests will enjoy a provided lunch and snacks, ensuring they’re fueled for the active excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The tour does not have a minimum age requirement, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The activity level is moderate, with 1-2 mile hikes, so parents should consider their child’s abilities before booking.

Can I Bring My Own Camera/Binoculars for the Trip?

Yes, guests are encouraged to bring their own camera and binoculars to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife during the Pack Creek Brown Bear Viewing Area tour. All necessary equipment is provided, but personal photography gear is welcome.

How Many Restroom Breaks Are Included During the Day?

The tour includes several restroom breaks throughout the day. Exact number may vary, but guests can expect ample opportunities to use restroom facilities during the excursion, which lasts the full day.

Are There Any Additional Fees for the Floatplane or Kayak Activities?

No, the round-trip transportation, equipment, and all other necessary items like lunch and snacks are included in the tour price. There are no additional fees for the floatplane flight or kayak paddle activities.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration for More Bear Viewing?

Unfortunately, the tour duration cannot be extended for more bear viewing. The day trip is a fixed itinerary that includes the floatplane flight, kayak paddle, and guided hikes to observe bears in their natural habitat during the allotted time.

Recap

Pack Creek’s untamed wilderness and abundant salmon runs make it a prime feeding ground for majestic brown bears.

Visitors to this haven within Alaska’s Tongass National Forest can witness the captivating behaviors of these apex predators, from mothers teaching their cubs to the sheer power of the bears as they thrive in this natural habitat.

An unforgettable experience awaits those who embark on this journey to observe the fortress of the bears.