Anan Bear and Wildlife Observatory

ALASKA’S WILD MAJESTY

This tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness wild black and brown bears, bald eagles, and harbor seals feasting on pacific pink salmon. 

Depart Wrangell in a covered and heated jet boat to travel 35 miles via the Eastern Passage to the Anan creek trailhead. This is an approximately 45 minute scenic journey in the protected waters between Wrangell Island and mainland Alaska. Upon arrival, there is a 5/8 mile (20-minute) walk on a US Forest Service maintained gravel trail to the observatory. Guests will be on shore at Anan for approximately three hours. We suggest bringing a snack or meal for the boat ride as food is not allowed on shore.

US Forest Service personnel meet guests at the trailhead and provide a brief orientation to the Observatory’s safety rules. Led by highly trained Alaska Waters guides, a maximum of 11 guests at a time hike the gravel path through ancient trees and mosses to the wooden observatory deck. The bears enjoy utilizing the trail as much as we do and have their own personalities; some are tolerant of people, whereas others are less so. Our guides are trained to identify the different bears, anticipate their actions, and safely manage encounters.

Every year hundreds of thousands of spawning pacific salmon return to Anan Creek. This seasonal abundance means the wildlife have little concern for human presence, and most fish within a few feet of the observation deck allowing priceless picture opportunities. A photo blind is located directly on Anan Creek below the observation deck where guests can take up-close photos of the bears and eagles feasting on fish.

Please Note: Those with a fear of heights or balance issues may be concerned with the steep hills that occasionally appear on the side of the trail. Trekking poles are available upon request, but guests must be able to ambulate without staff assistance. Guides are not able to physically assist as their concern and responsibility is safety around the bears.