When and Where to See Alaska Wildlife

The untouched wilderness of the Land of the Midnight Sun draws millions of people to Alaska every year. Its majestic landscapes are intertwined with incredible wildlife encounters, but the unpredictability of nature means visitors often wonder: Will there be eagles everywhere? Do I need to worry about bears? Will I see a whale? This guide answers these questions and more, helping you plan your perfect Alaskan wildlife adventure.

Whales

Humpback whales have been gathering for centuries in the Gastineau Channel outside Juneau to hunt and feed during the summer before migrating to Hawaii for mating and birthing. This makes Juneau one of the best places in the world for whale watching. Consider booking the Juneau Whale Watching Tour for a close encounter with these majestic creatures, or combine it with a visit to Mendenhall Glacier on the Mendenhall Glacier & Mendenhall Glacier Tour for a truly unforgettable experience.

Salmon

Ketchikan proudly wears the title of "Salmon Capital of the World." The town's culture is steeped in salmon, from fishing and cooking to art and history. The iconic Creek Street becomes a vibrant hotspot in mid-July when thousands of salmon return to spawn.

If you're visiting in August or September, you’ll see salmon everywhere, but don’t worry if you’re traveling earlier. Ketchikan is home to five species of salmon (King/Chinook, Pink, Sockeye, Chum, and Coho/Silver), each with its own peak season. For an immersive experience, consider the Alaska Fishing: Cook Your Catch Tour, where you’ll learn all about the salmon fishing while catching rockfish. This unique adventure lets you enjoy the best of Ketchikan’s fishing tradition and culinary expertise.

Bald Eagles and Birds of Prey

Bald eagles are abundant in Alaska, boasting a population of over 30,000 birds, the largest in the U.S. These regal predators nest along shorelines and rivers, especially in southeast Alaska and the Inside Passage. Tours like the Orca Cove Sea Kayaking let you paddle through pristine waters where you may spot bald eagles and other wildlife in their natural habitats. Meanwhile, the Alaska Wildlife Sanctuary & Totem Park offers an up-close look at rehabilitated eagles and other raptors, making it a perfect complement to your Alaskan adventure.

Alaskan Huskies

Though not really "wild" life, dogsledding is an iconic Alaskan experience tied deeply to the state’s culture and history. During the summer, sled dogs train for winter at glacier camps or mushers’ camps. You can visit these incredible athletes on the Helicopter & Dogsled Glacier Excursion or learn about their training and history at the Musher’s Camp & Sled Dog Discovery.

Bears

Black Bears

Black bears emerge from hibernation in May and can often be found foraging for berries until the salmon spawn begins in July. Ketchikan offers prime viewing opportunities near Neets Bay, accessible via the Neets Bay Bear Viewing Tour.

Brown Bears

For brown bears, Admiralty Island is the ultimate destination. Known as the "Fortress of the Bears," the island is home to over 1,500 brown bears—the highest concentration in the world. The Admiralty Island Fortress of the Bear Kayak Tour offers an exclusive opportunity to see these incredible animals in their natural habitat while enjoying a unique kayaking adventure.

Other Land Animals

Alaska’s diverse terrain supports wildlife like moose, porcupines, mountain goats, foxes, and martens. For the best chances of spotting these creatures, take a sightseeing tour from Skagway through the White Pass Mountains and into the Yukon, where varied ecosystems provide habitats for these elusive animals.

Marine Life

Alaska’s coastal waters teem with life. At the Dyea Flats near Skagway, you can spot seals, sea lions, otters, cranes, and other waterfowl. Explore the area through the panoramic views on the Grizzly Falls Ziplining Expedition.

General Tips for Wildlife Viewing

• Timing: Dawn and dusk are the best times to see wildlife. Check local sunrise and sunset times.
• Safety First: Never feed or approach animals. Wild animals are unpredictable, and feeding them disrupts their natural behaviors.
• Stay Quiet: Move slowly and quietly to avoid startling animals.
• Travel in Groups: Stay in groups of at least three for safety.
• No Selfies: Keep your distance and avoid taking close-up selfies with wildlife.

Encountering Bears

Black Bears

• Behavior: Typically shy and herbivorous. Only aggressive if startled or protecting cubs.
• How to Respond: Be calm and assertive. Talk in a steady voice to make your presence known. If necessary, back away slowly while facing the bear.

Brown Bears

• Behavior: More aggressive and territorial than black bears.
• How to Respond: DO NOT RUN. If a brown bear charges, play dead. Lie flat on your stomach with hands behind your neck, and remain still until the bear leaves.

Alaska’s wildlife is one of the state’s greatest treasures. By understanding the best places and practices for wildlife viewing—and with tours like those mentioned above—you’ll have an unforgettable experience while respecting the natural world around you.