Witness Alaska’s Bears in the Wild
Take a seaplane into the Naha Wilderness for a rare, close-up view of black bears feeding on returning salmon in their natural habitat.
A guided journey to one of Southeast Alaska’s most remarkable wildlife experiences
A short floatplane flight from Ketchikan brings you into the Tongass National Forest, where remote inlets, dense rainforest, and salmon-filled streams create the ideal environment for Alaska’s black bears.
From the air, the landscape unfolds in layers – forested ridges, winding waterways, and quiet coves far removed from roads. After a remote landing at Traitor’s Cove, the experience continues on the ground, guided by an experienced Alaska Bear Guide.
A short drive and gentle walk through the old-growth rainforest leads to the Margaret Creek Bear Viewing platform, where the focus shifts from the forest to the wildlife itself. Here, bears gather along the creek to feed on returning salmon, offering a rare opportunity to observe Alaska’s wilderness in motion.
It’s a short and remarkable period of time where bears congregate to feed on the migration of returning salmon. An annual summer event that lasts eight weeks and offers a glimpse into the wild rhythms of Alaska’s wilderness and wildlife.
A Wilderness Viewing Experience
The Margaret Creek Bear Observatory is maintained by the U.S. Forest Service and operates under strict guidelines designed to protect people, habitat, and wildlife.
Access is limited to a small number of visitors each day, ensuring an intimate experience with minimum impact on altering bear behavior. Tours are offered during peak season – typically late July through mid-September – when salmon runs attract bears to the area.
Limited spaces fill quickly. It is highly recommended to book well in advance.
Duration
Approximately 3 hours total
~45 minutes of flight time
Aircraft
DeHavilland Beaver or DeHavilland Otter floatplane
Passengers Per Flight
6–10 guests
Departure Location
Ketchikan, Alaska
Best Time to Fly
Late July through mid-September
Narration & Guide
Live pilot narration + guided experience with an Alaska Bear Guide
What makes the Traitor’s Cove Bear Viewing tour unforgettable?
Visit a world-class bear viewing facility at Margaret Creek
Scenic round-trip floatplane flight over the Tongass National Forest
Guided experience with an experienced Alaska Bear Guide
High likelihood of seeing black bears feeding on salmon
Opportunities to observe bald eagles and other wildlife
A short, accessible nature walk through the rainforest
The Traitor’s Cove Bear Viewing tour is ideal for:
- Wildlife enthusiasts seeking a remote immersive experience
- Photographers seeking authentic wildlife encounters
- Travelers interested in a guided and in-depth wilderness experience
- Guests comfortable with a longer excursion and forest walk
- Travelers wanting to see bears in their natural habitat
A wildlife experience shaped by the season
During peak salmon runs, Margaret Creek becomes a focal point for wildlife activity.
During the tour, guests may observe:
- Black bears feeding along the creek
- Salmon returning upstream to spawn
- Bald eagles gathering along the riverbanks
- Dense rainforest ecosystems surrounding the viewing area
The experience is guided and unhurried, allowing time to observe natural behavior from a safe and designated platform.
Into the forest and onto the viewing platform
After landing, guests are met by their guide and transported a short distance to the trailhead.
From there, a gentle walk through the rainforest leads to the Margaret Creek viewing platform. Along the way, guides share insight into local flora, fauna, and the surrounding ecosystem, with the possibility of spotting wildlife even before reaching the creek.
At the platform, guests are positioned at a safe and carefully managed vantage point – offering a clear view of bears and wildlife in their natural environment.
Begin Your Seawind Adventure
Reach Out & Choose Your Experience
Contact us to book, ask questions, or select a flightseeing tour or charter.
Clear Scheduling & Communication
We confirm flight details and provide transparent updates around timing and weather.
Arrival & Safety Briefing
Meet our team, receive a clear safety briefing, and get comfortable before departure.
Experience Alaska from the Air
Fly confidently with pilots who know these landscapes – and care about your experience.