Chilkoot River Bear Viewing
 

Built on the hill overlooking Portage Cove, Ft. Seward is an impressive sight to behold with the magnificent Chilkat Mountains in the background.  Constructed in 1904, Ft. William Seward was  Alaska’s first permanent U.S. Army post.  Built around a 6-acre parade ground the buildings still stand, having been purchased as "army surplus" in 1947 after WWII. The buildings are listed on the National Historical Register and now house various shops, hotels, and restaurants.  You'll relive a time of yesteryear as we drive through this historic area.

Moving through the town of Haines (no stop lights) and following the coast line we'll look for marine animals and point out the "tank farm", Alaska Marine Highway Ferry terminal and other points of historic and ecological interest.   At the end of Lutak Inlet is the Chilkoot River (about a mile long) which flows from the glacier fed Chilkoot Lake. With four species of salmon spawning here, it is prime bear territory. 

Along the banks of the river, the brown bears feed on the spawning salmon - and although not always predictable, we often see them, particularly later in the summer (August & September) as the salmon runs heighten and the fall approaches. Because of the large abundance of salmon, there are eagles and other shore birds in this area.  We'll return along the shore and bring you back to the cruise ship in plenty of time for your departure or return you to your lodging.  (Please note, depending upon the time of day or other considerations, we may reverse the order of this tour.)

You'll be met at the cruise ship dock, your hotel or B&B,  time for this tour is approximately 2  hours.  If time allows and we are viewing bears along the Chilkoot River we can stay longer.

Bring your sense of adventure, cameras and binoculars for this magnificent excursion.

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