The Grizzly or Brown Bear is one of the largest land carnivores in the world and part of Alaska history.
Pack Creek is located 20 mile S.W. by air from Juneau, it is called "Kootznoowoo" or "Fortress of the Bear". Also called Admiralty Island, this one million square acre island is a jewel in the middle of Southeastern Alaska. Admiralty Island is unique in that it has the largest and densest population of brown bears in the world. One bear for every square mile or over 1600 bears inhabit one of the largest expanse of old growth forests in North America.
During the summer months 10 to 20 Admiralty brown bears descend on each of several large streams to gorge themselves on returning Pacific salmon. The most famous of these steams is PACK CREEK, located on the N.E. side of the island. (The bear viewing area is now called the Stan Price State Wildlife Sanctuary by the National Park Service)
Visitors are allowed to boat and/or fly into Pack Creek. There is a special viewing area and platform staffed with National Park Service Rangers during the summer, however there are no accommodations at Pack Creek. Camping is banned at the bear viewing area but is allowed on Windfall Island (1/2 mile away).
Due to Pack Creeks popularity during the summer there is a limited access permit system in effect from June 1 to Aug. 25.
Alaska Seaplane Service has floatplane charter service available into Pack Creek. The flight drops you off at the Pack Creek beach in the morning and you are picked up in the afternoon after spending the day with the bears.
The round trip airfare, for up to 3 passengers, to Pack Creek and back is $640.00 (US) or $1000.00 (US) for up to 6 passengers.
In addition to airfare, passengers are also required to obtain a special use permit for Pack Creek from the Forest Service Information Center as described here:
| July 5 – August 25 | June 1 – July 4; August 26 – September 10 |
| Adults (16 – 61 yrs. old) - $50 per day | Adults (16 – 61 yrs. old) - $20 per day |
| Seniors (62+ yrs. old) - $25 per day | Seniors (62+ yrs. old) - $10 per day |
| Juniors (under 16 yrs old) - $25 per day | Juniors (under 16 yrs old) - $10 per day |
You can find more information at the U.S Forest Service site Tongass National Forest
For any questions about the above information please call Alaska Seaplanes Service or the U.S. Forest