If you’re searching for an unforgettable adventure in a nature sanctuary in Alaska, look no further than the Pack Creek Brown Bear Viewing Area. Nestled in the pristine wilderness of Admiralty Island, this wildlife sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to observe majestic brown bears in their natural habitat. From the lush greenery to the captivating wildlife, a trip to Pack Creek is sure to be a highlight of your Alaskan journey.

Pack Creek Brown Bear Viewing Area is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Danita Delimont / Gallo Images ROOTS RF collection / Getty Images
This protected area provides a safe and natural environment for the bears. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Pack Creek is dedicated to preserving the delicate balance of its ecosystem while offering a glimpse into the wild beauty of Alaska.
To access this incredible nature sanctuary in Alaska, you'll need to plan ahead.
Michael Oak / Google Maps
A permit is required, which can be obtained through the U.S. Forest Service. Most visitors choose to take a guided tour departing from Juneau. Visitors can only access the sanctuary on a guided trip or by applying for a permit, which is available between June 1st and September 10th. The journey involves a 30-minute scenic floatplane ride that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Once you arrive at the sanctuary, a short hike through lush forest trails brings you to the viewing area.
The Pack Creek Bear Viewing Area is within a federally designated wilderness area, which means development is minimal to preserve its natural state.
Jahan Sagafi / Google Maps
There are no facilities on site. Visitors have two main options for bear viewing: you can either stroll along the beach to the viewing spot or take a one-mile hike to an observation tower that offers an elevated perspective of the bears below.

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The main attraction at Pack Creek is, of course, the brown bears.
Michael Oak / Google Maps
During the peak viewing season, which runs from late June to early September, you can expect to see plenty of bears fishing for salmon in the creek or roaming the meadows. It's a photographer's paradise, with lots of opportunities to capture these magnificent creatures up close while maintaining a safe and respectful distance.
Incredibly, over 95 percent of visitors to Pack Creek successfully spot at least one bear.
Michael Oak / Google Maps
The peak viewing period is from July to August, coinciding with the pink and chum salmon runs in Pack Creek. During this time, visitors often enjoy close-up views of five or more bears throughout the day, with the possibility of seeing multiple bears simultaneously. The optimal times for bear viewing are during the morning and evening hours.
In addition to brown bears, visitors to Pack Creek might also spot Sitka black-tailed deer in the old-growth spruce and hemlock forests surrounding the area.
Michael Oak / Google Maps
Other wildlife sightings can include river otters, minks, martens, and harbor seals, with occasional appearances of orcas and humpback whales offshore. Admiralty Island boasts the highest concentration of nesting bald eagles in the world, often seen feeding on spawning salmon at Pack Creek. The area is part of the Stan Price State Wildlife Sanctuary, named after an Alaskan woodsman who lived in the area on a float house for almost 40 years. This sanctuary, which has been closed to hunting since the mid-1930s, ensures the preservation of this unique and vibrant ecosystem.
Admiralty Island, known as "Kootznoowoo" or "Fortress of the Bears" by the native Tlingít people, is home to approximately 1,500 brown bears—more than all the Lower 48 states combined.
Konrad Wothe / imageBROKER / Getty Images
At Pack Creek, you can observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Whether you're a photographer, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply looking for a tranquil escape, Pack Creek provides an experience that showcases the wild beauty of Alaska.

Have you ever visited this nature sanctuary in Alaska? What do you think? Let us know in the comments below! Looking for another incredible wildlife sanctuary? We’re huge fans of the McNeil River State Game Sanctuary.

Need some new gear for your next Alaskan adventure? We love the options at REI.

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Stan Price State Wildlife Sanctuary, Alaska, USA