Lake Clark Bear Viewing Day Trip

Question

Due to desired accommodation being unavailable for one night, we will probably find ourselves spending a night in Anchorage. Keen to make the most of any opportunity, I have been researching day trips to Lake Clark National Park for a bear watching tour.

I’m looking a bunch of operators, which have different options. For example, Alaska Air Service offers a tour which lands on a beach and then explores by foot to look for bears. Whilst Rust’s Flying Service offers a tour which ends up on a pontoon boat for bear viewing.

I’ve read that the Alaska Air Service tour is very dependent on the tides for good bear viewing, where as the pontoon option is not. I can also see that Rust’s Flying Service has had a fair few crashes over the years and as a pilot myself, this raises my antennae.

I am after recommendations from people who have done these tours as to whether the pontoon boat option or on foot is better.

The date I have available is the 8th of July, so I am conscious it’s a bit early in the bear season, I notice that Rust’s only do Redoubt Bay Lodge during the first half of July.

I will add, that I am not interested in going out to Katmai and fighting it out with the crowds at Brooks Falls, I am after something a little more intimate.

Answer

Lake Clark National Park offers one of the most intimate bear viewing experiences in Alaska, and your choice between the Alaska Air Service “on foot” tour and Rust’s Flying Service pontoon boat tour depends on several factors including safety, viewing conditions, and personal preference.

Alaska Air Service – On Foot Tour

This tour typically lands you on a remote beach where you hike with guides to observe brown bears. It provides a more immersive experience and the chance to explore the natural surroundings on foot.
Viewing quality is highly dependent on tides and salmon runs. Early July may be slightly early for peak activity, but you can still see bears, especially in areas where salmon are starting to spawn.
The experience is intimate, usually with fewer people than Brooks Falls at Katmai, and it allows for photography opportunities from different angles and perspectives.
Weather and tide schedules are crucial; guides are experienced but flexibility is needed, as low tides or unfavorable conditions can limit bear sightings.

Rust’s Flying Service – Pontoon Boat Tour

This option uses a pontoon boat to explore estuaries and coastal areas for bears. The bears are observed from the water, often at a comfortable distance, which is safer in terms of wildlife interaction.
Less dependent on tides, making bear sightings more predictable in early July. The boat can access multiple locations along the coast where bears feed, giving a good chance for sightings regardless of salmon run timing.
Some past safety concerns have been noted in the press, but Rust’s Flying Service maintains FAA compliance and experienced pilots. If you are a pilot, it is reasonable to review safety records, ask about pilot experience, and ensure the aircraft is well-maintained.
The pontoon boat offers stable, scenic viewing and is less physically demanding than hiking, making it suitable if you prefer a relaxed approach.

Additional Considerations

Early July is a good time to avoid the crowds at Katmai; expect fewer tourists and a more personal experience at Lake Clark.
Both tours provide guides familiar with bear behavior, ensuring a safe and educational experience.
If you are seeking a more intimate and active experience, the on-foot option may be preferable. If you prioritize safety, stability, and predictability in bear sightings, the pontoon boat is likely better.
Check availability early and confirm flight and tour logistics from Anchorage, as weather can affect schedules.

In summary, if your priority is an immersive wilderness experience and you are comfortable with some dependence on tides and light hiking, Alaska Air Service is excellent. If you prefer a stable, less weather-dependent, and predictable viewing experience, Rust’s pontoon tour is ideal. Either way, you will enjoy a quiet, less crowded bear viewing experience compared to Brooks Falls.

Lake Clark Bear Viewing Day Trip

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