An Icy Strait Point brown bear viewing tour is one of the most accessible and authentic wildlife experiences available on any Alaska cruise. Situated on Chichagof Island—an area with one of the highest concentrations of brown bears in the world—this excursion offers a rare opportunity to see these magnificent animals in their natural habitat without the need for an expensive floatplane trip.
What to Expect
Your adventure begins just steps from your cruise ship. After meeting your guide, you will board a comfortable bus for a scenic and narrated drive. The route takes you through the small, historic Tlingit village of Hoonah and deep into the island’s lush temperate rainforest. Your guide, often a local Tlingit resident, will share insights into the area’s ecology and the deep cultural connection between the Tlingit people and the land they have inhabited for thousands of years.
The destination is typically the Spasski River Valley, a rich ecosystem where bears congregate to feed. Upon arrival, your guide will lead you on a short walk, about 800 yards, along a well-maintained gravel path and boardwalk. This trail leads to raised viewing platforms strategically placed along a salmon-rich stream. These secure platforms provide a safe, unobstructed view of the bears as they forage, fish, and interact. You will spend a significant amount of time here, observing and photographing the animals.
While wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, the density of bears on Chichagof Island makes them likely, especially from July through early September when the salmon are running. Expect to see other wildlife as well, including Sitka black-tailed deer, bald eagles, and various bird species. After your time at the viewing platforms, you will be escorted back to your bus for the return journey to Icy Strait Point.
Who This Is For
This excursion is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and families seeking a genuine Alaskan experience. Because it does not involve strenuous activity, it is perfectly suited for a wide range of ages and fitness levels. If your primary goal in Alaska is to see bears in the wild, this tour offers one of the best and most reliable opportunities in Southeast Alaska. The experience is both thrilling and educational, providing a deep appreciation for the region’s wildlife and the Tlingit culture. It is not recommended for individuals with severe mobility issues who cannot manage the short walk to the platforms or for families with very young children, as some operators have a minimum age requirement of 8 years old.
Ship vs. Independent Booking
Icy Strait Point presents a unique booking situation. The port and many of its premier tours, including the primary bear viewing excursion, are owned and operated by the Huna Totem Corporation, an Alaska Native village corporation. Because of this, the tour sold by your cruise line is often the exact same as the one offered directly by the port, and prices are typically very similar.
- Booking with the Cruise Ship: The main advantage is the “back-to-ship” guarantee. If the tour runs late for any reason, the ship will wait for you. This provides peace of mind.
- Booking Independently: While significant cost savings are unlikely, you may find slightly more tour time options. Reputable independent operators like Wilderness Island Tours also offer small-group experiences. However, you are responsible for returning to the ship on time.
For this specific excursion, the convenience and security of booking through the cruise line often outweigh the minimal benefits of booking independently, especially for first-time visitors.
What to Bring
Proper attire is key to enjoying your time in the Alaskan wilderness. The weather can be unpredictable, so dressing in layers is crucial.
- Waterproof Outer Layer: A rain jacket is a must-have, as tours operate rain or shine.
- Warm Layers: Wear a fleece or sweater underneath your jacket that you can easily remove if the weather warms up.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: Closed-toe, sturdy shoes are necessary for the walk on gravel paths and boardwalks.
- Camera: A camera with a zoom lens will help you capture incredible photos from the viewing platforms.
- Binoculars: Essential for getting detailed, up-close views of the bears and other distant wildlife.
- Insect Repellent: Depending on the time of year, bugs can be present in the forest.
How to Book
Given the popularity of this tour and its limited capacity, booking well in advance is strongly recommended, particularly for travel during the peak months of July and August.
- Through Your Cruise Line: The easiest method is to book the “Spasski River Valley Wildlife & Bear Search” or a similarly named tour directly through your cruise line’s online shore excursion portal.
- Directly with Icy Strait Point: You can view excursion offerings on the official Icy Strait Point website (icystraitpoint.com), which is operated by the Huna Totem Corporation. Bookings made here or through your cruise line support the local Tlingit community directly.
- Independent Local Operators: For a potential small-group alternative, you can look into local Hoonah-based companies like Wilderness Island Tours, which is Tlingit-owned and operated.
No matter how you book, securing your spot early ensures you won’t miss out on this unforgettable Alaskan highlight.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect on a typical bear viewing tour from Icy Strait Point?
Your tour begins by meeting your guide near the pier. You'll board a bus for a narrated drive through the Tlingit village of Hoonah and into the interior of Chichagof Island. The journey takes you through temperate rainforest to a dedicated bear viewing area, often the Spasski River Valley. Here, you will be led along a secure boardwalk to elevated viewing platforms overlooking streams where bears come to fish for salmon. You'll spend about 60-90 minutes observing the bears before the return trip to the port.
Is it better to book a bear tour through the cruise ship or independently?
At Icy Strait Point, the price and experience are often very similar. The port and its primary excursions are operated by the Huna Totem Corporation, an Alaska Native corporation. This means the 'independent' tour is often the same one the ship sells. Booking with the cruise line offers a back-to-port guarantee. Booking direct might provide more communication with the local operator, but significant cost savings are unlikely for this specific excursion.
What should I wear or bring for a bear viewing tour?
Dress in warm layers, as Alaska's weather can change quickly. A waterproof and windproof outer jacket is essential. Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes suitable for gravel paths and boardwalks. Also, bring a camera with a good zoom lens, binoculars for close-up views, and insect repellent. Most tours operate rain or shine.
What are the physical requirements for this excursion?
This is a low-difficulty tour suitable for most ages and fitness levels. The main physical activity is a walk of up to 800 yards along gravel paths and boardwalks to the viewing platforms. It is generally accessible, but guests must be able to walk without assistance. It is not recommended for those with significant mobility issues, and some tours have a minimum age of 8.
What is the cancellation policy if the weather is bad?
Tours run in most weather conditions, including rain, which is common in Southeast Alaska. Operator cancellations are rare and typically only occur in cases of extreme weather that pose a safety risk. If the operator cancels the tour, you will receive a full refund, regardless of whether you booked through the ship or directly.
How far in advance should I book a bear viewing tour?
Book as early as possible. Bear viewing is one of the most popular activities in Icy Strait Point, and tours have limited capacity. For cruises during the peak months of July and August, when the salmon are running, tours can sell out months in advance. We recommend booking your spot as soon as you have confirmed your cruise itinerary.
Who operates the tours and what does the price include?
Most primary bear viewing tours are operated by Huna Totem Corporation, the same entity that owns and operates the Icy Strait Point port. The price includes round-trip transportation from the pier, a professionally trained local guide, and access to the private viewing area. The guides, many of whom are local Tlingit residents, provide commentary on the area's ecology, history, and culture. Gratuities for your guide are not included and are appreciated.