Anan Creek Wildlife Observatory
Untamed Alaska
Take off from Ketchikan on a thrilling floatplane adventure to Anan Creek, one of Alaska’s premier bear viewing destinations. Soar over rugged coastlines and lush forests before landing near this remote sanctuary, where an expert guide leads you to viewing platforms along the salmon-rich creek. Watch in awe as coastal brown and black bears fish, forage, and roam freely in their natural habitat. With incredible photo opportunities and fascinating insights into bear behavior, this journey offers an unforgettable glimpse into wild Alaska—capped by a scenic return flight over Southeast Alaska’s breathtaking wilderness.
Before you come please familiarize yourself with the US Forest Service's guidelines for safely viewing bears.
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(Group weight cannot exceed 900lbs)
Max Passenger weight of 270lbs
if 4 Passengers the 4th must be under 170lbs
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 $750.00 per person
No Children under 10 years of age
Guests under 18 Years Old must be Accompanied by an Adult
Gratuity for Pilot and Bear Guide not included in price
You can find more information on Anan from the USFS Here
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This cancellation policy applies specifically to Family Air Tours' Anan Creek Bear Viewing Tours. Due to limited U.S. Forest Service permits and advance scheduling requirements, these terms differ from our standard sightseeing tours and other services.
Guest Cancellations
30 days or more before departure: Full refund, less a 5% administrative fee.
15–29 days before departure: 50% refund of the total booking amount.
14 days or less before departure: Non-refundable.
No-shows or late arrivals: No refunds will be issued.
Weather & Operational Cancellations
Your safety is our highest priority. If Family Air Tours cancels your trip due to unsafe weather, mechanical issues, or other operational safety concerns, you will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule, subject to availability.
Cruise Ship Cancellations
If your cruise ship is unable to dock in Ketchikan or arrives too late for your scheduled tour, you will receive a full refund.
Permit Availability
All Anan Creek tours are subject to U.S. Forest Service permit availability. If we are unable to secure the required permits, you will receive a full refund.
Changes & Rescheduling
Date changes are subject to availability and must be requested at least 30 days before departure. Changes requested within 30 days are not guaranteed and may be subject to the cancellation policy.
Medical Emergencies
Cancellations due to documented medical emergencies may be considered for a refund or credit on a case-by-case basis.
Refund Processing
Approved refunds will be issued to the original payment method within 5–10 business days.
Policy Applicability
This policy applies exclusively to Anan Creek Bear Viewing Tour reservations. All other Family Air Tours services are governed by their respective cancellation policies.
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Waterproof Rain Jacket: Southeast Alaska weather can change quickly, and rain is common.
Comfortable Walking Shoes: Sturdy, closed-toe shoes or hiking boots with good traction are recommended for the approximately 20–30-minute hike to the observatory.
Warm Layers: Dress in layers, as temperatures can be cool, especially during the floatplane flight and in the shaded rainforest.
Camera or Smartphone: Bring a camera to capture incredible photos of bears and other wildlife. A zoom lens is highly recommended.
Binoculars: Optional, but great for spotting wildlife along the trail and around the observatory.
Water Bottle: Bring plain drinking water in a secure, leakproof container.
Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes and other insects can be present during the summer months.
Small Personal Items: Bring any necessary medications and personal essentials in a compact, easily carried bag.
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Food, snacks, and beverages (other than water): Food and scented drinks can attract bears and should not be brought to the observatory.
Backpacks and large bags: Storage space aboard our floatplane is extremely limited. Please bring only essential personal items.
Bear spray, firearms, or other weapons: These items are not permitted on our tours.
Drones: Drone use is prohibited at Anan Creek Wildlife Observatory.
Strong fragrances: Avoid perfumes, colognes, and heavily scented lotions that may attract wildlife.
Large or unnecessary equipment: Oversized camera bags, tripods, and other bulky items should be left behind.Description text goes here
Anan 2027 Waitlist
We do not accept any bookings for the following season until permits are issued in late October to Early November. If you fill out the contact form below we can request permits for the date of your visit to guarantee your trip!
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.
