ANAN BEAR & WILDLIFE OBSERVATORY
The Anan Bear & Wildlife Observatory is one Alaska’s premier bear viewing sites.
Located 30 miles south of Wrangell on the rugged Alaskan mainland, the Anan Wildlife Observatory is one of the most sought-after bear viewing sites in the world. Nestled within the Tongass National Forest, this remote and pristine location is accessible only by water or air, adding to its allure and exclusivity. The observatory is best known for offering a unique opportunity to observe both black and brown bears in their natural habitat as they gather to feast on one of Southeast Alaska's largest pink salmon runs.
A Historical Gathering Place
Anan Creek, where the observatory is situated, has a rich history. The Tlingit people historically used the area as a summer fish camp, taking advantage of the abundant salmon to sustain them through the winter. The creek’s name, Anan, is derived from a Tlingit word meaning "a place to sit down together," reflecting its importance as a communal gathering spot. The importance of this location continued into the 20th century, where it became a focal point for non-native commercial fishing operations until the detrimental effects on the salmon population led to the outlawing of fish traps in 1959.
The Ultimate Bear Viewing Experience
From July 5th through August 25th, the observatory offers unparalleled bear viewing as hundreds of black and brown bears converge to feed on the spawning salmon. Visitors can watch these majestic creatures from a specially designed viewing platform, which offers close-up views of bears fishing in the cascading falls of Anan Creek. Unlike many other bear viewing sites, Anan is one of the few places in the world where both species of bears coexist peacefully, often within sight of one another.
In addition to bears, Anan Creek attracts a variety of other wildlife. Bald eagles, harbor seals, otters, and even the occasional wolf can be spotted in the area, all drawn by the rich supply of salmon. This biodiversity makes Anan not just a bear viewing site, but a complete wildlife experience.
Planning Your Visit
To protect the delicate balance of this ecosystem and ensure a quality experience for all visitors, access to the Anan Wildlife Observatory is strictly limited. During peak season, only a limited number of permits are issued daily, and early reservations are highly recommended. Most visitors opt for guided tours offered by local operators, which include transportation and permits. For those with their own boat or floatplane, a small number of private permits are available through recreation.gov. The observatory is also home to the Anan Bay Recreation Cabin, where visitors can stay overnight and enjoy an extended wildlife experience with daily permits included.
Outside of the peak season, permits are not required, but visitors are still advised to follow all posted safety regulations. The half-mile trail leading to the observatory is well-maintained, though visitors should be prepared for potentially slippery and muddy conditions due to the region’s wet climate.
A Truly Unique Alaskan Experience
Anan Wildlife Observatory is more than just a place to watch bears—it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in one of the most breathtaking natural settings Alaska has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife photographer or simply a nature enthusiast, a visit to Anan is sure to be a highlight of your Alaskan adventure.
For more information and to plan your visit, contact the Wrangell Ranger District or visit the official Anan Wildlife Observatory site. Experience the magic of Anan, where the wild truly comes to life.
LIVE FROM ANAN!
