Bear Viewing Excursion and Airplane Adventure Tour

Encounter Alaska’s Bears with an Airplane and Wilderness Adventure

The Bear Viewing Excursion and Airplane Adventure Tour offers a unique way to see Alaska’s iconic bears in their natural habitat. Priced at $1,195 per person, this 6 to 7-hour experience departs from Anchorage and is highly recommended, with 91% of participants suggesting it to others. The tour combines a thrilling airplane flight, remote landings near the bears, and a relaxing shoreline picnic on a secluded beach inside Lake Clark National Park.

This tour stands out because it takes you directly to the best bear viewing spots—places only accessible by air—giving you hours of observation in the wilderness. The flight offers spectacular views of mountains, glaciers, volcanoes, and tundra, making the journey itself an unforgettable part of the experience. While the price tag is on the higher side, it’s a comprehensive adventure that promises up-close wildlife encounters and breathtaking scenery, perfect for those eager to witness Alaska’s wild side safely and comfortably.

Key Points

• Scenic flight from Anchorage to Lake Clark National Park takes about 1 hour, offering views of glaciers, mountains, and wildlife.
• Remote landings enable hours of bear observation in a natural environment, with guides ensuring safety and optimal viewing.
• Bears in action include playing, teaching cubs, feeding, resting, and even mating, providing diverse wildlife sightings.
• A shoreline picnic lunch on a secluded beach inside the park offers a peaceful break among untouched landscapes.
• The tour includes park and landing fees, bottled water, and a delicious lunch, with no additional hidden costs.
• Suitable for most travelers, but not recommended for children under 10, and moderate walking is involved.

Starting Point and Flight Experience over Anchorage

The adventure begins at 2600 E 5th Ave in Anchorage at 8:00 am, where travelers meet their guide and pilot. After a brief safety and activity overview, the group boards a small airplane, with a maximum of 5 passengers per flight, ensuring a personal experience. The flight lasts about an hour, with the chance to see Alaska’s stunning landscape—from glaciers to wildlife—through large window seats.

The pilot provides commentary on the sights and keeps communication open during the flight, making it feel more like a guided tour than just a plane ride. The smaller group size enhances the experience, allowing for a more intimate and relaxed journey through Alaska’s wilderness. Many reviews praise the calm professionalism of pilots like Abby and Stephanie, who help ease any nervousness about flying in a small aircraft.

Landing Near the Bears in Lake Clark National Park

Once in the park, the remote landing allows for close proximity to bear activity. Guides carefully select locations where bears are playing, teaching cubs, or feeding on clams, giving visitors the chance to observe behaviors often unseen from afar. The guides prioritize safety and responsible wildlife viewing, ensuring that interaction remains respectful and secure.

Expect to walk and hike through tundra, meadows, and along riverbanks, all while spotting a variety of wildlife. The hours spent roaming around the bears provide ample opportunity for up-close sightings and photography. The experience is designed to be informative and engaging, with guides sharing insights about bear behavior and ecology.

Shoreline Picnic on a Secluded Beach

After hours of wildlife observation, the tour continues with a delicious, packed shoreline lunch on a quiet beach inside the park. The seclusion of the setting means you can relax, share stories, and enjoy the scenery away from crowds. Many describe this moment as peaceful and memorable, with beachcombing and storytelling often part of the experience.

The lunch is typically well-regarded, offering a satisfying meal after the morning’s activity. This break allows guests to recharge and take in the magnificent views, with many photos and stories exchanged as part of the shared adventure.

Scenic Return Flight with Coastal Views

The return trip to Anchorage involves a flight along the Alaska tidal coastline, providing further opportunities for photo-taking and wildlife spotting. The flight back caps off the day with stunning vistas of the coast, mountains, and glaciers, making the entire journey as visually rewarding as the land-based activities.

This return route offers a different perspective of the landscape, and many find it a perfect end to an already memorable adventure. The entire experience, from start to finish, is designed to maximize scenery and wildlife viewing.

Logistics and Group Size

The tour departs from Anchorage at 8:00 am and includes all park and landing fees, as well as bottled water. The group size is limited to five participants per flight, ensuring a personalized experience and plenty of space for wildlife viewing and photography. The tour is not recommended for children under 10, mainly due to moderate walking and the remote nature of the experience.

Participants should wear sensible shoes and bring rain jackets, as weather conditions vary. The tour is suitable for most travelers who are comfortable with small aircraft and moderate outdoor activity.

Expert Guides and Pilot Professionalism

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledge and professionalism of the guides and pilots, especially mentioning Abby, Stephanie, and Nate. Their calm demeanor and expertise shine during the flight and landings, making even nervous guests feel at ease. Guides also share informative commentary about wildlife and geography, adding educational value to the adventure.

The small group setting enhances the personal attention given during the landings and walkabouts, creating an intimate connection with the wilderness.

Safety and Weather Considerations

Since most of the experience depends on favorable weather, the tour provider offers full refunds or rescheduling if conditions are poor. The safety briefing before departure emphasizes bear viewing practices and airplane safety, ensuring that guests are well-prepared for the entire day. Weather gear, such as rain jackets, is recommended, as conditions in Alaska can change quickly.

Cost and Value for the Alaska Wildlife Enthusiast

At $1,195, the tour is a significant investment but is considered value-rich given the remote access, hours of bear observation, scenic flights, and secluded shoreline lunch. The all-inclusive pricing covers park fees, landing fees, and transport, providing clarity and convenience. The high demand—booked on average 146 days in advance—reflects the tour’s popularity and exclusivity.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Bear Viewing Excursion suits adventurers who are comfortable with small aircraft and walks in the wilderness. Nature lovers eager to see bears in their natural setting will find this experience deeply rewarding. It is ideal for those wanting an immersive, safe, and scenic way to encounter Alaska’s wildlife up close. However, it may not be suitable for families with very young children or those with mobility limitations.

Final Thoughts on the Alaska Bear Viewing and Airplane Adventure

The combination of scenic flight, wildlife observation, and shoreline picnic makes this tour an exceptional way to experience Alaska’s wilderness. The expert guides and pilots elevate the experience, ensuring safety and engaging storytelling. While the cost is substantial, the up-close bear sightings and spectacular landscapes offer lasting memories.

For travelers seeking a full-day adventure that combines adventure, wildlife, and scenery, this tour delivers an authentic glimpse into Alaska’s wild heart. It’s perfect for those willing to invest in a once-in-a-lifetime experience that highlights the true beauty of Alaska’s wilderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not recommended for children under 10 due to the moderate walking involved and the remote nature of the experience.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the flight, park fees, landing fees, lunch, airport/tax fees, and bottled water. Gratuities are not included but appreciated.

How long is the flight?
The flight from Anchorage to Lake Clark National Park lasts about one hour each way, with spectacular views en route.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You will likely observe bears engaging in various activities such as playing, feeding, resting, and mating. The landscape also includes mountains, glaciers, and volcanoes.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size per plane is five people, ensuring a personalized experience.

What should I wear?
Dress in sensible shoes and bring rain jackets due to potential weather variability.

What happens in case of bad weather?
If weather conditions prevent safe flying or landing, the tour can be rescheduled or fully refunded.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not refundable.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves moderate walking and remote landings, which may not be suitable for all mobility levels.

How do I book this tour?
The tour is highly popular, so booking 146 days in advance is recommended. You can reserve through the provider’s website or via Viator.