Excursion Ancient forest at anan creek tour at Wrangell

Discover the majestic scenery, Native culture and incredible wilderness of Alaska on this four-hour adventure. Learn from a Native local guide all about the unique culture of the Wrangell region as you make your way to the Anan Creek Wildlife Observatory, where (although your tour visits during non-peak season) there is still a chance to see a Black or Brown Bear.

Board your jet boat and set out for a one-hour, scenic ride through the Back Channel towards your hiking destination, the renowned Anan Wildlife Observation area, known for being a prolific salmon spawning stream that attracts both black and brown bears. Your local naturalist guide provides expert commentary on the pristine wild scenery around you of coastline, forest and waterfalls. Keep an eye out for wildlife and marine mammals, with the assistance of your guide's trained eye and deep knowledge.

Disembark at Anan Creek, the site of the early summer salmon runs that attracts a striking number of bears. Hike for 45 minutes to the end of the trail and the site of the Anan Wildlife Observation Area. Your guide provides fascinating historic details all about the Alaska Native people and the way they interacted and benefited from with the bountiful mid-summer fish runs at this historical fish camp.

From the observation platform, make your return hike for 45 minutes (approximately half a mile in each direction) over a rustic gravel trail as your naturalist and guide leads you through the beautifully scenic trail, sharing important detail about this special rainforest ecosystem. Much of the groomed trail is gravel, with slightly hilly terrain. There is also a staircase located at the trailhead from the beach which guests will need to be able to go up and down.

A snack and beverage are served when you're back on the boat after your hike.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Anan Wildlife Observatory, possible Black and Brown Bear sightings, 1.5-hour hike, scenic boat ride

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate to extensive amount of walking of over a mile, including hilly terrain and a ramp that can be steep at low tide. Participants must be in good physical condition with no balance problems. Conditions change with the weather and the trail can be muddy along some parts. Depending upon tide, the ramp may be steep when loading off. There is also off-roading travel, making this tour not recommended for those with back or neck issues as well as pregnant women. This tour is not accessible to guests with limited mobility or wheelchairs. No mobility devices, other than canes or walking sticks, are allowed on this tour.Guests must sign a waiver to participate. The minimum age to participate is 8 years old, provided the child can follow direction from guides. Guests are recommended to dress in layers and wear sturdy walking shoes, and bring rain gear (no umbrella allowed for safety) if appropriate conditions. Space on this tour is somewhat limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment. Wildlife sightings not guaranteed.