Anan Creek Wildlife Observatory
Untamed Alaska
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Embark on an unforgettable bear viewing adventure to Anan Creek, Alaska, aboard a floatplane. This journey blends the thrill of flight with the awe of observing bears in their natural habitat. Your experience begins in Ketchikan as you lift off and soar over Southeast Alaska’s pristine wilderness.
As you approach Anan Creek, your skilled pilot provides a scenic tour, highlighting rugged coastlines, winding fjords, and dense forests. After a smooth landing in a secluded bay near the creek, you’ll meet your expert bear viewing guide, who will lead you through this renowned bear sanctuary.
Anan Creek is famous for its large population of coastal brown bears, drawn to the area by the annual salmon run. From safe viewing platforms along the creek, you'll get to see these magnificent creatures up close. Your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights about bear behavior, ecology, and the unique ecosystem of Anan Creek.
Capture incredible moments as bears fish for salmon, lounge near waterfalls, or wander through the forest. Each encounter provides a rare and intimate look at their daily lives, perfect for memorable photos.
After an exhilarating day of bear viewing, you’ll board the floatplane for a scenic flight back to Ketchikan. As you glide over stunning landscapes and vast wilderness, you’ll reflect on the unforgettable wildlife encounters and breathtaking beauty of Alaska.
A guided bear viewing trip to Anan Creek is more than just a wildlife experience. It’s an immersive journey into one of Alaska’s most pristine habitats, offering an unmatched opportunity to witness bears in their natural environment amid the stunning wilderness of Southeast Alaska.
Before you come please familiarize yourself with the US Forest Service's guidelines for safely viewing bears.
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What’s Included
This Trip is Only Available from July to Late August on a permitted basis.
Transportation to and from Cruise ship or Hotel is included
Approximate trip time is four hours at pick up time
Max of 4 people
Please Note: Anan is a permitted site. This means that everyone going to Anan must have a permit and only 64 people per day will be allowed to visit the site. These permits go fast, so don’t procrastinate, as soon as you’ve decided to go, give us a call to book your trip.
We begin to take bookings for this trip in October of the prior year.
Cost of $715.00 per person
Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult
No Children under 5 years of age
Gratuity for Pilot and Bear Guide not included in price
You can find more information on Anan from the USFS Here
When planning a bear viewing trip to the Anan Wildlife Observatory with us, there are several common questions and important details you’ll want to know. Here's an overview of FAQs and essential information:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Anan Wildlife Observatory?
The peak bear viewing season is mid-July through early August, when the salmon run is at its height. Bears, both black and brown, gather to feed at the river. But bears begin to show up late June and can be seen in early September
How do I get to Anan Wildlife Observatory?
The observatory is remote and accessible only by boat or seaplane. We take you there on our Cessna 185 Seaplane, it can hold 4 guests or 1000 lbs. total.
What types of bears can I see?
Anan is known for both black bears and brown (grizzly) bears. Black bears are more commonly seen, but brown bears are also frequent visitors.
How long is the seaplane flight to Anan?
The seaplane flight from Ketchikan to Anan typically takes 30–40 minutes.
Do I need a permit to visit?
Yes, during peak season (July and August), you need a permit to visit Anan Wildlife Observatory. Permits are limited and must be secured in advance through us.
What should I bring?
Essentials include:
Rain gear and warm layers (the weather is often rainy or cool)
Sturdy shoes (for walking on the trail to the viewing platforms)
Insect repellent
Camera or binoculars
Water bottle
How close can I get to the bears?
You’ll be viewing bears from designated platforms that are a safe distance from the animals. Rangers are present to ensure safe interactions.
Is the trail to the viewing platform difficult?
The trail from the seaplane drop-off area to the viewing platforms is about half a mile and considered an easy to moderate walk. The path can be uneven and muddy, so proper footwear is recommended.
What other wildlife can I see?
Besides bears, you may spot bald eagles, otters, and seals. The area is rich in wildlife due to the abundant salmon run.
Are there restroom facilities?
There are basic restroom facilities available near the viewing platforms.
Is there a guide present at the observatory?
Yes, the observatory usually has rangers and guides on-site to help with safety and provide information about the bears and wildlife.
Important Information
Weather: The weather can be unpredictable, with frequent rain. Be prepared for wet conditions, and wear layers to adjust to changing temperatures.
Safety Guidelines:
Always follow the ranger’s/guide’s instructions.
Do not approach or feed the bears.
Stick to the designated trails and viewing areas.
There is no food allowed on the tour
Photography: The viewing platforms provide excellent opportunities for photography. Bring a camera with a zoom lens for capturing detailed shots of the bears.
Permit Availability: Due to the limited number of visitors allowed daily, it’s essential to book your tour early, especially for trips in July and August.
Tour Duration: Bear viewing tours, including the flight, the time spent at the observatory, and the return flight, last 4 hours.
This trip offers a rare opportunity to observe bears in their natural habitat, so preparation is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
Cancellation Policy
Safety is our number one priority. Flights or Fishing Trips cancelled by us, the operator, will be fully refunded. We do operate in light rains and winds, and our experienced pilots and guides makes the decision on whether or not we operate based on if it will be a safe trip that will provide you with an enjoyable tour. We reserve the right to cancel or change any itinerary as weather conditions require. If your cruise ship doesn't show up in Ketchikan or is late and we cannot reschedule, you will be fully refunded
Cancellation policy for all tours and charters (except Anan Bear Tours) . Cancellations made more than thirty (30) days in advance will be fully refunded less a 15% processing fee. Last-minute cancellations with less than thirty (30) days notice are non-refundable.
Cancellation policy for Anan Bear Tours. Cancellations made more than sixty (60) days in advance will be fully refunded less a 15% processing fee. Last-minute cancellations with less than sixty (60) days notice are non-refundable.
Failure to meet the representative of Family Air Tours & Hook Up Fly Shop at your scheduled time and location will result in the loss of deposited funds and any remaining balance due will be charged to your credit card.
