The months of August and September provide unique opportunities in Haines for bear viewing. Travel from Skagway to Haines by ferry, then meet your naturalist guide for an evening wildlife “safari” to see Alaskan brown bears. Photograph these majestic creatures feeding near the riverbanks of the Chilkoot River which teams with late-season salmon and lures the bears from the cover of the forest, as they search for an easy meal. With multiple viewing and photography opportunities along your route, this is truly a remarkable iconic Alaskan experience
You’ll travel by ferry from Skagway to Haines where you’ll meet your private naturalist to begin your bear viewing adventure. Travel through the Chilkoot Valley by private vehicle as it hugs the waterway of the Chilkoot River and stops at numerous points so that you can get out and experience the sights, sounds, and scents of this pristine Alaskan wilderness. Your naturalist will provide insights about botany, geology, wildlife and ecosystems all along the way as you enjoy breathtaking opportunities for photography.
The Chilkoot River has always been a favorite salmon fishing site for the native Tlingit people – and its no different for Alaskan brown bears. As twilight approaches, brown bears leave the cover of the forest to forage along the grassy riverbanks and feed on the abundant salmon in the river. Powerful spotting scopes and binoculars will provide you with close-up views of the wildlife as you spot mountain goats feeding in alpine meads, brown bears scavenging along the river, and nesting eagles.
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When I decided to take my daughters and their fellas on a trip to Alaska, I investigated a variety of formal tours. Although they offered interesting experiences, none of them really hit the mark for what we were looking for. We had specific experiences on our list, and none of these tours... Read more
Barbara Nelson