Description
Drive into the heart of the Tongass National Forest, the largest in the United States, on a three-hour wildlife tour focused on finding brown bears in their natural habitat. Your guide takes you by vehicle through Hoonah and into the old-growth forest of Chichagof Island, stopping at streams, clearings, and known bear corridors where sightings are most frequent.
Chichagof Island has one of the highest concentrations of brown bears per square mile on the planet, and your guide tracks bear activity daily to put your group in the right location. You’ll stop at active areas and wait quietly for bears to appear, foraging along streams, moving through clearings, or browsing at the forest edge.
The forest itself is striking. Old-growth Sitka spruce and western hemlock tower above a dense understory, with mountain views breaking through at higher elevations. Beyond bears, keep an eye out for bald eagles in the canopy, Sitka black-tailed deer crossing the road, and a variety of birds throughout the forest.
This tour is best for guests who are comfortable with brief stops on uneven natural terrain. The minimum age is 5, and a private option is available for groups of up to 12 who want the flexibility to set their own pace.
Round-trip transportation from the Excursion Hub at Icy Strait Point is included. Bring warm layers, binoculars, and a camera with a zoom for wildlife photography. Pairs well with a whale-watching tour for guests who want to see both marine and forest wildlife during their Hoonah port stop.