Alaska Wildlife Safari
Trip Photos
Trip Description
Experience the rugged beauty and the pristine natural habitat of Alaskan wildlife. Come explore the best of Southeast Alaska as we travel from the Alaskan capital of Juneau, through to the small villages of Haines and Skagway, and onto Gustavus, the Gateway to Glacier Bay.
Ultimate Wildlife Quest itinerary at a glance:
- Day 1: Juneau – Mendenhall Glacier Visit, Salmon Hatchery and Whale Watching
- Day 2: Haines – Klukwan Native Village Visit and Float Down the Chilkat River
- Day 3: Haines – Canoe on Chilkoot Lake, Coastal Hiking, and Chilkat State Park
- Day 4: Haines – Kroschel Wildlife Center Visit, Alpine Tundra Walk, and Evening Wildlife Safari
- Day 5: Haines/Gustavus – Bald Eagle and Raptor Center, Scenic Flight over Glacier Bay, and Pleasant Island Sea Kayaking
- Day 6: Gustavus – Glacier Bay National Park Day Boat Tour and Return Flight to Juneau
Hosted by an expert Alaska-based tour guide, professional naturalists, seasoned boat captains, and a veteran bush pilot, you will be immersed in the grandeur of the Last Frontier first-hand through numerous specially chosen outdoor, cultural, and wildlife-viewing experiences. Enjoy free time to hike by glaciers, shop for native art, have a craft Alaskan brew, or watch for marine wildlife on a beautiful pebble beach; leave the stress of travel and planning to us!
We will provide guests with upscale lodging at every destination, gourmet meals, and travel by road, sea, and bush plane. Our route will take us from the glacial valleys of Juneau up the Lynn Canal, which forms the tiptop of the famous Inside Passage, our ferry sails underneath striking waterfalls and past packs of sea lions. Once in Haines, we will explore wildlife preserves and native villages, canoe on pristine lakes, discover rivers filled with salmon and bears, and raft among the largest gathering of bald eagles in the world. Our journey continues to the awe-inspiring Glacier Bay National Park and the charming town of Gustavus, where we will sail among glaciers and whales in the most stunning place on earth. We finish where we began, in the beautiful coastal capitol of Juneau, having explored the best of Southeast Alaska’s wildlife and scenery.
Juneau:
Downtown Juneau: Juneau is nestled in a beautifully unique landscape of temperate rainforest, glaciers, glacially-carved valleys, ocean, and islands. Downtown Juneau is a perfect mixture of modern city, native culture, and Last Frontier coastal town. Enjoy shopping, museums, art, and exquisite Alaskan cuisine along the waterfront. With ocean views, looming snow-capped peaks, and glaciers surrounding the city, you won’t have look far for the perfect picture!
Mendenhall Glacier: The Mendenhall Glacier, one of the most beautiful and easily accessible glaciers on the continent, sits just 13 miles away from downtown Juneau, making it one of the most popular and praised destinations in the city. The beautiful blue glacier is nearly a half-mile wide and boasts ice almost 1,800 feet deep; as part of the 1,500 square mile Juneau Icefield, the Mendenhall is in good company. We will take the once-in-a-lifetime flight out to the glacial ice, gear up with our professional glacier guides, and trek around this natural wonder.
Macaulay Salmon Hatchery: You won’t want to miss this unique glance into a truly Alaskan experience! Check out the hatchery operations, learn about the salmon spawning process and life cycle, watch millions of baby salmon grown, see adult salmon swimming up fish ladders, play in the interactive tide pool, and snack on smoked salmon products. Ask hatchery experts any questions you may have about the fishing industry, the 5 types of salmon, the marine environment, and more!
Whale Watching on the Fjordlands: When we board the Fjordlands ferry for a very scenic transfer to and from Juneau, we’ll get much more than just a boat ride. Whale watching comes hand-in-hand with this ferry trip, as our seasoned captains navigate the waters around Juneau to find the most likely places to encounter whales! The Fjordlands ferry is great way to see Alaska’s Inside Passage. Some of the wildlife you may encounter besides whales include a stellar sea lion rookery, harbor seals, nesting bald eagles, and porpoises. While sailing, you will be able to enjoy the majestic mountains, waterfalls, and glaciers. You will also get the chance to snap some pictures of Eldred Rock Lighthouse, the oldest original lighthouse in Alaska! A continental breakfast will be served on board with muffins, apple, coffee and tea, to boot.
Eldred Rock Lighthouse: Eldred Rock Lighthouse is the oldest original lighthouse in all of Alaska! Built in 1905, historians believe that its larger-than-standard size helped keep it maintained and in service for much longer than many other lighthouses along Alaska’s rugged coast. In fact, it is the only station never to be rebuilt. Constructed to alleviate the multitude of shipwrecks along the route during the Gold Rush, the lighthouse is most famous for being the site of the wreck of the Clara Nevada, said to be carrying nearly 800 pounds of gold.
Haines:
Downtown Haines: Haines is a picture-perfect fishing town of about 2,500 people. It offers incredible wildlife viewing and outstanding outdoor adventures. Haines hosts a rich cultural history with Fort Seward, one of the first military forts in Alaska, and is only 20 miles from the native Tlingit village of Klukwan. Take a stroll down the main street, or head to the waterfront Fort Seward for smoked salmon, Tlingit art, or a beachside hike.
Kroschel Wildlife Center: We will visit the famed Kroschel Wildlife Center as part of our natural history and wildlife viewing tour. We will be welcomed by Steve Kroschel and his staff, who will take us through a hands-on visit with face-to-face encounters with the wildlife and grant us intimate close-up photo opportunities with these rescued animals. As we walk through the wildlife center, we will discover orphaned wolves, Arctic fox, lynx, porcupine, pine marten, mink, reindeer, wolverines, and more.
Native Village of Klukwan: Klukwan is one of the largest communities of Tlingits (an Alaska native people group) still in existence, located twenty-two miles north of Haines. Located at the confluence of three glacially fed rivers, this historic village has seen a multitude of generations. For hundreds of years, the Tlingits have lived off the bounty of this special place. Still today, you will see them fishing and smoking their catch at the river’s edge. We will have the opportunity to learn and experience the fascinating cultural history of the Tlingit people. Enjoy a native cultural performance and orientation which includes a visit to a Tlingit long house, a visit to the Adze shed to see totem and canoe carving, and to the salmon drying houses. The Heritage Center is situated in a stunningly beautiful location that offers incredible views.
Alpine Summit Walk: Explore the off-trail alpine terrain of wild British Columbia. We will drive north of Haines and over the border into Canada, gaining elevation at our trailhead above treeline. Towering peaks loom in every direction, while glaciers, cascading waterfalls, and rolling tundra enchant us. During the peak of summer, enjoy multitudes of wildflowers! Golden eagles, ptarmigan, snowshoe hares, grizzly bears, and other wildlife frequent these areas. Your guide will choose from a variety of trail routes to best fit guest abilities. During early summer months, we may encounter patches of snow. No matter the season, this trek will showcase the very best of beautiful northern British Columbia!
Float Trip Through Bald Eagle Preserve: At the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, you’ll experience the largest gathering of bald eagles in the world! Your specially-trained guides await to begin your rafting adventure (a gentle float, no whitewater!). You’ll float peacefully down the Chilkat River aboard an 18-foot inflatable raft – the best way to observe the eagles drawn to feed on the plentiful salmon. Bears and wolves are also occasional guests at the feast. Not only rich in wildlife, the preserve is also a place of incredible beauty, with towering mountains, hanging glaciers and lush forests.
Canoe Trip on Chilkoot Lake: The Chilkoot River Valley offers incredible wildlife viewing. Brown Bears, eagles, mountain goats, and spawning salmon are commons sights. Our guides are expert naturalists and enjoy sharing their love and knowledge of the Alaskan wilderness. At Chilkoot Lake, you’ll be stepping into a Voyageur canoe, which is stable, comfortable and quiet; perfect for observing nature’s splendor and the wildlife that abounds around this peaceful lake. You’ll be out on the water for about 1.5 hours exploring the inlets, coves, salmon spawning streams and numerous waterfalls that spill off the mountains into the lake.
Chilkat Inlet Coastal Hike: Enjoy this spectacular hiking adventure that immerses you in the remote beauty of Southeast Alaska, where you will be surrounded with amazing mountain, glacier, and ocean views. Once at the trailhead, the hike begins over rolling terrain through temperate rainforest. Your knowledgeable, naturalist guide will talk about the flora and fauna of the region. The trail is slightly rolling as we make our way towards Moose Meadows, aptly named for the occasional moose seen grazing along the seaside. As we step out onto the beach, we are treated with magnificent glacier views across the fjord. The total hiking distance is about dependent on the group and weather conditions.
Evening Wildlife Safari & Bear Viewing: In the evening (one of the best times of day to see wildlife), we will journey north of Haines through the amazing Chilkoot Valley. The Chilkoot River is home to some of the best bear viewing in Alaska! The river’s huge salmon runs bring good numbers of bears every year. Situated among rugged glaciated peaks, it is home to numerous brown bears, mountain goats, salmon, river otters, and innumerable bald eagles. This area is a birdwatcher’s paradise with abundant local and migratory birds. Powerful spotting scopes or binoculars will often allow close-range views of mountain goats grazing in high alpine meadows and nesting eagles on this tour. After capturing images and experiencing the incredible natural beauty and wildlife of the Chilkoot River corridor at golden hour, we will head to the mouth of the Chilkat River, home to the largest concentration of bald eagles in the world. Our final stop of the tour is habitat to all five species of wild Pacific salmon, drawing all of Alaska’s predators to its shores. The four ice-capped mountain ranges that surround the Chilkat River provide unparalleled photography opportunities.
American Bald Eagle Foundation’s Raptor Center: Take a trip to the American Bald Eagle Foundation’s Raptor Center, an interpretive wildlife education center. Here, we will watch a training session with the beautiful, majestic, and powerful bird that serves as America’s symbol – up close and in person! We will also learn more of the other native and local wildlife. We will also be treated to a live presentation with one of the foundation’s resident ambassador raptors.
Gustavus:
Downtown Gustavus: Although more than 350,000 come to see Gustavus each year, most of them never leave the bow of their cruise ships! A remote town of about 450 residents, Gustavus is known as the Gateway to Glacier Bay. I’s coastline is covered in the softest sand found anywhere in Southeast Alaska, perfect for lounging and watching the whale, bald eagles, seals, and other wildlife frolic off the coast. Known for its sea kayaking through pristine waters, Gustavus is also a hub of adventure, as well as a wildlife Valhalla.
Scenic Flight to Gustavus: Fly over glaciers, waterfalls, forest, and mountain peaks on our way to the remote town of Gustavus, the Gateway to Glacier Bay National Park. While most people see Glacier Bay and Gustavus from the bow of a ship, we will have the opportunity to experience these beautiful places in a gorgeously unique way – soaring from above. The professional pilots routinely fly in every kind of Alaskan weather and to remote towns along the coast of Southeast Alaska. They will point out features in the landscape below – including peaks, glacial icefields, waterfalls, towns, and more! – and keep an eye out for any wildlife we may fly past. Our flight may route through Juneau or go directly to Gustavus.
Glacier Bay National Park Visitor Center: Conveniently located right inside the Glacier Bay Lodge (our lodging during our stay), the Glacier Bay National Park Visitor Center will be our one-stop-shop for information on the local flora, fauna, natural and cultural history around Gustavus and the national park. Glacier Bay National Park is the ancestral homeland of the Huna Tlingit clans who sustained themselves for centuries on the abundant resources of the land and sea. Several exhibits explore the park’s natural and cultural history. There are several activities we can participate in, such as park ranger-led films, a 1-mile walk to Bartlett Cove, and a Healing Totem Talk in the evening in conjunction with the program at Xunaa Shuká Hít (Huna Tribal House).
Day Boat Sailing to Glacier Bay National Park: We will set sail on a high-speed catamaran from Gustavus for a 7-hour excursion that you will never forget. We’ll spend the day on the waters of Glacier Bay, see magnificent tidewater glaciers, ancient snow-capped mountains, whales, stellar sea lions, rare birds such as puffins, coastal bears, seals, eagles, and so much more. The landscape and ecosystems will change dramatically as we pass rainforests, lichen-covered rocks, and dramatic ice. We will linger by at the faces of the Margerie and Grand Pacific Glaciers, two towering masses of ice and snow rising 245 feet above the ocean and stretching another 100 feet beneath the water. The ice that calves from the face of the two glaciers is an average of 200 years old – watch the passage of time as they crash into the water. This incredible Alaskan tour will leave you speechless.
Day 0: Arrival Day
Upon your arrival into Juneau, your guide will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. Once you are settled, you will have free time to enjoy the state capital of Alaska. Your guide will let you know at what time to meet the next day to start your adventure through Alaska and the Yukon.
Meals on your own.
Day 1: Juneau – Mendenhall Glacier Viewing, Salmon Hatchery, and Whale Watching
We will start the day with a narrated tour of downtown Juneau and the city’s highlights. Then we’re off to the Mendenhall Valley, where we will have time to see the visitor’s center, hike through the Tongass National Forest, and view the famed Mendenhall Glacier. Hike to Nugget Falls, down to the lakeside beach, or check out the displays on glaciology. Upon our return, you have the option to join a tour of the salmon hatchery, or you can enjoy your free time exploring downtown. In the afternoon, we will board a catamaran to the coastal fishing town of Haines, and whale watch along the journey! We will pass Eldred Rock Lighthouse, one of the most photographed entities in Alaska, as we keep eyes out for sea lions, seals, bald eagles, Dall porpoises, humpback whales, orcas, and more! Upon our arrival in Haines, we will transfer you to your hotel. You will be at your leisure for the rest of the evening.
Included: B-L.
Day 2: Haines – Klukwan Native Village and Chilkat River Float
Today we will experience the native culture of the Tlingit people on this unique visit to Klukwan, the mother village of the Tlingit Nation, located 22 mile north of Haines. For hundreds of years the Chilkat Tlingit have lived off the bounty of this special place and their close connection to the land will be further revealed throughout our visit. Their Heritage Center provides access to art treasures that have previously not been available to the public. The Whale House collection, uniquely displayed in its place of origin, allows entrance to the Chilkat’s distinctive ethnic landscape. Before departing Klukwan, we will enjoy a picnic lunch while overlooking the glacially fed waters of the Chilkat River. There will also be time to visit the gift shop, where local native arts and crafts can be purchased. Leaving Klukwan we will float through the heart of the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. We will enjoy a scenic float trip (no whitewater) through the Chilkat Valley with great photo opportunities for Eagles and other wildlife amidst the grandeur of glaciated snow-capped peaks. We will spend 2 ½ to 3 hours on the water before returning to Haines. After your float, we will head back to downtown Haines, where you will enjoy free time for the rest of the day. Check out the beaches, hike in Chilkat State Park, wander the local museums, or check out the local brewery, cafes, and restaurants.
Included: B-L.
Day 3: Haines – Canoe on Chilkoot Lake, Coastal Hiking and Wildlife spotting
Our day will start with a drive to the Lutak Inlet and the Chilkoot River Valley. The Chilkoot River corridor offers incredible wildlife viewing: brown bears, eagles, mountain goats, and spawning salmon are all commons sights. Once at the lake, we will board our outboard canoes and explore the serenity of Chilkoot Lake. We will discover the inlets, coves, salmon spawning streams, and numerous waterfalls that spill from the mountains into this pristine lake. After our canoe adventure, we will return to the town of Haines and enjoy a picnic-style lunch at a private oceanside beach. Once we’re back in town, join a spectacular hiking adventure that immerses you in the incredible beauty of Southeast Alaska, where you will be surrounded with amazing mountain and ocean views. From the trailhead, spend the next 2 ½ to 3 hours hiking, surrounded by views of towering, snow-capped mountains and Lynn Canal. We will share with you our knowledge of the area’s flora and fauna, and the amazing glacial history of Alaska. You may see eagles, waterfowl, whales, seals, bears, and moose. Each group is outfitted with binoculars to maximize your opportunities to see up-close the wildlife and the spectacular mountain and river scenery. Afterwards, we will head to Chilkat State Park, which offers incredible views of the Chilkat Inlet, Rainbow and Davidson glaciers. The information center also has spotting scopes so you can spot the inlet wildlife, such as seals, porpoises, and whales. You will be able to spy on bears and mountain goats on the other side of the inlet. The evening will be at your leisure.
Included: B-L.
Day 4: Haines – Kroschel Wildlife Center Visit, Alpine Tundra Walk and Evening Wildlife Viewing
We will start our adventure-packed day with a narrated tour of historic Fort Seward. Continuing onto the Kroschel Wildlife Center, we will experience a hands-on visit and face-to-face encounters with rescued wildlife indigenous to Alaska and the Yukon. From this wildlife refuge, we will head up to the alpine tundra of British Columbia and explore the wildlife world above treeline. Towering peaks loom above in all directions. There are fantastic views of glaciers, cascading waterfalls, and wide expanses of alpine tundra. During the peak of the summer, there are a multitude of wildflowers. Golden eagles, ptarmigan, snowshoe hares, grizzly bears, and other wildlife frequent the area. Your guide will choose from a variety of trails and routes to best fit guest abilities. We will hike in the alpine tundra above Haines Pass; the exact route will depend on weather conditions and group ability, but wherever we go, we will enjoy gorgeous views and wandering trails. After our hike, we will head back down the highway for lunch at the 33 Mile Roadhouse. Arriving back into town, we will journey through the amazing Chilkoot Valley. On our journey to the Chilkoot River corridor, we take in coastal views along the longest fjord in North America, we may spot seals, sea lions, porpoise and whales feeding in these rich waters. The Chilkoot River is home to some of the best bear viewing in Alaska! The river’s huge salmon runs bring good numbers of bears every year. Situated among rugged glaciated peaks, it is home to numerous brown bears, mountain goats, salmon, river otters, and innumerable bald eagles. This area is a birdwatchers paradise with abundant local and migratory birds. Powerful spotting scopes or binoculars will often allow close-range views of mountain goats grazing in high alpine meadows and nesting eagles on this tour. After capturing images and experiencing the incredible natural beauty and wildlife of the Chilkoot River corridor, we’ll enjoy a seaside picnic of sandwiches, chips, fruit, and cookies. Following lunch, we will head to the mouth of the Chilkat River, home to the largest concentration of bald eagles in the world. Our final stop of the tour is habitat to all five species of wild Pacific salmon, drawing all of Alaska’s predators to its shores. The four ice-capped mountain ranges that surround the Chilkat River provide unparalleled photography opportunities.
Included: B-L.
Day 5: Haines & Gustavus – Raptor Center, Glacier Bay Sightseeing, and Sea Kayaking in Gustavus
After breakfast, we will visit the American Bald Eagle Foundation’s Raptor Center, an interpretive wildlife education center. We will watch a training session with the beautiful bird that is the symbol of America and learn about other native wildlife. After our raptor center tour, we will have the once-in-a-lifetime experience of flying over Glacier Bay National Park on our way to Gustavus. Glacier Bay is one of the most popular destinations for those visiting Alaska; however, most people see it from the bow of a ship. This sightseeing flight offers you the possibility to look down into crevasses hundreds (or thousands) of feet deep! Witness the rivers of ice flowing for miles down from the top of some of North America’s tallest mountains. Once in Gustavus, we will hop on our kayaks and cross the Icy Passage. During this excursion to Pleasure Island, keep an eye for sea otters, porpoises, sea lions, minke whales, orcas, seals and bald eagles. We will paddle along the coast to explore the multitude of intertidal creatures before returning to Gustavus for dinner and leisure time.
Included: B-L.
Day 6: Gustavus – Glacier Bay National Park Day Boat Tour and Flight to Juneau
Today, we will have an early start as we board the Glacier Bay day boat and sail 130 miles through the illustrious and jaw-dropping Glacier Bay. This 7-hour tour will take you on a journey through land- and seascapes rich with wildlife, sailing through a waterway that was under a river of ice only 250 years ago. A National Park Ranger will provide informational commentary throughout the tour. We will sail very close to an isolated island to observe seabirds and marine mammals. Tufted and Horned Puffins and the Common Murre nest here, alongside Pelagic Cormorants and Black-legged Kittiwakes. The area is also the best place to see Steller Sea Lions, as their feeding grounds are close! We will enjoy lunch amidst the icebergs from the tidewater glaciers ahead. After lunch, you will be able to get closer to the river of ice hundreds of feet thick and nearly a mile wide. This will be our chance to see and hear the ice calving into the water – something you will remember for years to come! Upon arrival back to Gustavus, we will board a plane to return to the Juneau airport, where you will be able to connect with a flight home or return to your hotel.
Included: B-L
Note: While not included in the cost, our guides can facilitate group dinners at our favorite spots in town.
Weather delays and associated considerations: Alaska Yukon Discovery Tours may change the scheduled itinerary due to weather, conditions, or operational conflicts. If, for any reason, one of the schedule itinerary elements is unable to operate as planned, we will implement alternate tour programming which may involve alternate locations and/or different activities.
For Interactive Map Click Here
We work with the best upscale and conveniently located hotels in Juneau, Haines, and Gustavus. To that extent, we have partnered with the following lodging options to ensure the best experience possible for our guests.
Lodging in Juneau: Four Points by Sheraton
Four Points by Sheraton Juneau offers modern comfort in the historic downtown district of Alaska’s capital. With spacious accommodations, contemporary amenities, complimentary Wi-Fi, plush bedding, and both ocean and mountain-scape views, you won’t want for anything. Conveniently located just footsteps away from shops, restaurants, and museums. The hotel has a sports bar and grill and 24-hour fitness center, as well as waterfront access right out the door.
Lodging in Haines: Aspen Suites
Located in the heart of downtown Haines, Aspen Suites is a newly built, beautiful hotel with modern kitchenette studio suites. Restaurants, the Haines Brewery, grocery stores, and downtown shops are all within a few blocks of the hotel. Just a short walk down the hill and you’re at the picturesque Haines Boat Harbor!
Lodging in Gustavus: Glacier Bay Lodge
Glacier Bay Lodge offers the only hotel accommodations within the national park. The Lodge, tucked into the spruce trees that line Bartlett Cove, offers magnificent sunset views of the Fairweather Mountain range. With clean, comfortable, Alaskan-inspired rooms, you’ll rest well after your full days of adventure, surrounded by the quiet Alaskan rainforest. The lobby sports a massive stone fireplace to cozy up and reminiscence on the scenery around you in the evenings, and provides world-class meals straight from the Alaskan waters next door.
Trip Documents:
- Trip Itinerary – detailed trip itinerary
- Know Before You Go FAQs – Printable list of FAQs
- Juneau Travel Information – How best to get to and from Juneau, Alaska
- Packing List – Overview of personal clothing and accessories for your Alaska and Yukon travels
- Waiver – Printable waiver for your review
- Terms & Conditions – Overview of terms and conditions associated with this trip
Group Price: (+ tax, in USD)
Single Supplement: $855
Private Booking Price:
$8,320 Price per person – 2 people
$7,050 Price per person – 3 people
$6,300 Price per person – 4 people
$5,640 Price per person – 5 people
$5,310 Price per person – 6 people
All prices are per person based on a double occupancy.
What it is included in the standard vacation price?
- Professionally planned itinerary
- Expert guides as private escorts throughout your vacation
- Upscale hotel accommodations
- Breakfast and lunch per the itinerary
- All activities as listed on the itinerary
- All equipment necessary for all included activities
- Transportation to and from all included activities
- All admission charges for all included activities
- Transfer between destinations on the itinerary
- Airport transfers
Guests are responsible for the following:
- Air transportation to the departure city
- Gratuities for guides, bus drivers, waiters, and special guides
- Alcoholic beverages during included lunches
- Dinners (While not included in the cost, our guide can facilitate group dinners at our favorite spots in town)
- Travel Insurance
To book your adventure, follow the steps below:
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- Please call to confirm availability at 1-800-766-3396 or fill out an online form to request more information via this link:
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- Place a deposit to reserve your spot; this can be placed over the phone by credit card, check in the mail, or through our payment gateway.
- Once the deposit is confirmed, you will receive a welcome packet with all the necessary registration forms and trip information. We kindly ask that you submit all the necessary trip registration information at least 45 days prior to your trip.
For private booking or custom-made itineraries, please speak to one of our consultants:
Call 1-907-313-4422
Monday – Friday
8am – 4pm – Alaska Standard Time
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Trip Photos
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Trip Description
Experience the rugged beauty and the pristine natural habitat of Alaskan wildlife. Come explore the best of Southeast Alaska as we travel from the Alaskan capital of Juneau, through to the small villages of Haines and Skagway, and onto Gustavus, the Gateway to Glacier Bay.
Ultimate Wildlife Quest itinerary at a glance:
- Day 1: Juneau – Mendenhall Glacier Visit, Salmon Hatchery and Whale Watching
- Day 2: Haines – Klukwan Native Village Visit and Float Down the Chilkat River
- Day 3: Haines – Canoe on Chilkoot Lake, Coastal Hiking, and Chilkat State Park
- Day 4: Haines – Kroschel Wildlife Center Visit, Alpine Tundra Walk, and Evening Wildlife Safari
- Day 5: Haines/Gustavus – Bald Eagle and Raptor Center, Scenic Flight over Glacier Bay, and Pleasant Island Sea Kayaking
- Day 6: Gustavus – Glacier Bay National Park Day Boat Tour and Return Flight to Juneau
Hosted by an expert Alaska-based tour guide, professional naturalists, seasoned boat captains, and a veteran bush pilot, you will be immersed in the grandeur of the Last Frontier first-hand through numerous specially chosen outdoor, cultural, and wildlife-viewing experiences. Enjoy free time to hike by glaciers, shop for native art, have a craft Alaskan brew, or watch for marine wildlife on a beautiful pebble beach; leave the stress of travel and planning to us!
We will provide guests with upscale lodging at every destination, gourmet meals, and travel by road, sea, and bush plane. Our route will take us from the glacial valleys of Juneau up the Lynn Canal, which forms the tiptop of the famous Inside Passage, our ferry sails underneath striking waterfalls and past packs of sea lions. Once in Haines, we will explore wildlife preserves and native villages, canoe on pristine lakes, discover rivers filled with salmon and bears, and raft among the largest gathering of bald eagles in the world. Our journey continues to the awe-inspiring Glacier Bay National Park and the charming town of Gustavus, where we will sail among glaciers and whales in the most stunning place on earth. We finish where we began, in the beautiful coastal capitol of Juneau, having explored the best of Southeast Alaska’s wildlife and scenery.
Juneau:
Downtown Juneau: Juneau is nestled in a beautifully unique landscape of temperate rainforest, glaciers, glacially-carved valleys, ocean, and islands. Downtown Juneau is a perfect mixture of modern city, native culture, and Last Frontier coastal town. Enjoy shopping, museums, art, and exquisite Alaskan cuisine along the waterfront. With ocean views, looming snow-capped peaks, and glaciers surrounding the city, you won’t have look far for the perfect picture!
Mendenhall Glacier: The Mendenhall Glacier, one of the most beautiful and easily accessible glaciers on the continent, sits just 13 miles away from downtown Juneau, making it one of the most popular and praised destinations in the city. The beautiful blue glacier is nearly a half-mile wide and boasts ice almost 1,800 feet deep; as part of the 1,500 square mile Juneau Icefield, the Mendenhall is in good company. We will take the once-in-a-lifetime flight out to the glacial ice, gear up with our professional glacier guides, and trek around this natural wonder.
Macaulay Salmon Hatchery: You won’t want to miss this unique glance into a truly Alaskan experience! Check out the hatchery operations, learn about the salmon spawning process and life cycle, watch millions of baby salmon grown, see adult salmon swimming up fish ladders, play in the interactive tide pool, and snack on smoked salmon products. Ask hatchery experts any questions you may have about the fishing industry, the 5 types of salmon, the marine environment, and more!
Whale Watching on the Fjordlands: When we board the Fjordlands ferry for a very scenic transfer to and from Juneau, we’ll get much more than just a boat ride. Whale watching comes hand-in-hand with this ferry trip, as our seasoned captains navigate the waters around Juneau to find the most likely places to encounter whales! The Fjordlands ferry is great way to see Alaska’s Inside Passage. Some of the wildlife you may encounter besides whales include a stellar sea lion rookery, harbor seals, nesting bald eagles, and porpoises. While sailing, you will be able to enjoy the majestic mountains, waterfalls, and glaciers. You will also get the chance to snap some pictures of Eldred Rock Lighthouse, the oldest original lighthouse in Alaska! A continental breakfast will be served on board with muffins, apple, coffee and tea, to boot.
Eldred Rock Lighthouse: Eldred Rock Lighthouse is the oldest original lighthouse in all of Alaska! Built in 1905, historians believe that its larger-than-standard size helped keep it maintained and in service for much longer than many other lighthouses along Alaska’s rugged coast. In fact, it is the only station never to be rebuilt. Constructed to alleviate the multitude of shipwrecks along the route during the Gold Rush, the lighthouse is most famous for being the site of the wreck of the Clara Nevada, said to be carrying nearly 800 pounds of gold.
Haines:
Downtown Haines: Haines is a picture-perfect fishing town of about 2,500 people. It offers incredible wildlife viewing and outstanding outdoor adventures. Haines hosts a rich cultural history with Fort Seward, one of the first military forts in Alaska, and is only 20 miles from the native Tlingit village of Klukwan. Take a stroll down the main street, or head to the waterfront Fort Seward for smoked salmon, Tlingit art, or a beachside hike.
Kroschel Wildlife Center: We will visit the famed Kroschel Wildlife Center as part of our natural history and wildlife viewing tour. We will be welcomed by Steve Kroschel and his staff, who will take us through a hands-on visit with face-to-face encounters with the wildlife and grant us intimate close-up photo opportunities with these rescued animals. As we walk through the wildlife center, we will discover orphaned wolves, Arctic fox, lynx, porcupine, pine marten, mink, reindeer, wolverines, and more.
Native Village of Klukwan: Klukwan is one of the largest communities of Tlingits (an Alaska native people group) still in existence, located twenty-two miles north of Haines. Located at the confluence of three glacially fed rivers, this historic village has seen a multitude of generations. For hundreds of years, the Tlingits have lived off the bounty of this special place. Still today, you will see them fishing and smoking their catch at the river’s edge. We will have the opportunity to learn and experience the fascinating cultural history of the Tlingit people. Enjoy a native cultural performance and orientation which includes a visit to a Tlingit long house, a visit to the Adze shed to see totem and canoe carving, and to the salmon drying houses. The Heritage Center is situated in a stunningly beautiful location that offers incredible views.
Alpine Summit Walk: Explore the off-trail alpine terrain of wild British Columbia. We will drive north of Haines and over the border into Canada, gaining elevation at our trailhead above treeline. Towering peaks loom in every direction, while glaciers, cascading waterfalls, and rolling tundra enchant us. During the peak of summer, enjoy multitudes of wildflowers! Golden eagles, ptarmigan, snowshoe hares, grizzly bears, and other wildlife frequent these areas. Your guide will choose from a variety of trail routes to best fit guest abilities. During early summer months, we may encounter patches of snow. No matter the season, this trek will showcase the very best of beautiful northern British Columbia!
Float Trip Through Bald Eagle Preserve: At the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, you’ll experience the largest gathering of bald eagles in the world! Your specially-trained guides await to begin your rafting adventure (a gentle float, no whitewater!). You’ll float peacefully down the Chilkat River aboard an 18-foot inflatable raft – the best way to observe the eagles drawn to feed on the plentiful salmon. Bears and wolves are also occasional guests at the feast. Not only rich in wildlife, the preserve is also a place of incredible beauty, with towering mountains, hanging glaciers and lush forests.
Canoe Trip on Chilkoot Lake: The Chilkoot River Valley offers incredible wildlife viewing. Brown Bears, eagles, mountain goats, and spawning salmon are commons sights. Our guides are expert naturalists and enjoy sharing their love and knowledge of the Alaskan wilderness. At Chilkoot Lake, you’ll be stepping into a Voyageur canoe, which is stable, comfortable and quiet; perfect for observing nature’s splendor and the wildlife that abounds around this peaceful lake. You’ll be out on the water for about 1.5 hours exploring the inlets, coves, salmon spawning streams and numerous waterfalls that spill off the mountains into the lake.
Chilkat Inlet Coastal Hike: Enjoy this spectacular hiking adventure that immerses you in the remote beauty of Southeast Alaska, where you will be surrounded with amazing mountain, glacier, and ocean views. Once at the trailhead, the hike begins over rolling terrain through temperate rainforest. Your knowledgeable, naturalist guide will talk about the flora and fauna of the region. The trail is slightly rolling as we make our way towards Moose Meadows, aptly named for the occasional moose seen grazing along the seaside. As we step out onto the beach, we are treated with magnificent glacier views across the fjord. The total hiking distance is about dependent on the group and weather conditions.
Evening Wildlife Safari & Bear Viewing: In the evening (one of the best times of day to see wildlife), we will journey north of Haines through the amazing Chilkoot Valley. The Chilkoot River is home to some of the best bear viewing in Alaska! The river’s huge salmon runs bring good numbers of bears every year. Situated among rugged glaciated peaks, it is home to numerous brown bears, mountain goats, salmon, river otters, and innumerable bald eagles. This area is a birdwatcher’s paradise with abundant local and migratory birds. Powerful spotting scopes or binoculars will often allow close-range views of mountain goats grazing in high alpine meadows and nesting eagles on this tour. After capturing images and experiencing the incredible natural beauty and wildlife of the Chilkoot River corridor at golden hour, we will head to the mouth of the Chilkat River, home to the largest concentration of bald eagles in the world. Our final stop of the tour is habitat to all five species of wild Pacific salmon, drawing all of Alaska’s predators to its shores. The four ice-capped mountain ranges that surround the Chilkat River provide unparalleled photography opportunities.
American Bald Eagle Foundation’s Raptor Center: Take a trip to the American Bald Eagle Foundation’s Raptor Center, an interpretive wildlife education center. Here, we will watch a training session with the beautiful, majestic, and powerful bird that serves as America’s symbol – up close and in person! We will also learn more of the other native and local wildlife. We will also be treated to a live presentation with one of the foundation’s resident ambassador raptors.
Gustavus:
Downtown Gustavus: Although more than 350,000 come to see Gustavus each year, most of them never leave the bow of their cruise ships! A remote town of about 450 residents, Gustavus is known as the Gateway to Glacier Bay. I’s coastline is covered in the softest sand found anywhere in Southeast Alaska, perfect for lounging and watching the whale, bald eagles, seals, and other wildlife frolic off the coast. Known for its sea kayaking through pristine waters, Gustavus is also a hub of adventure, as well as a wildlife Valhalla.
Scenic Flight to Gustavus: Fly over glaciers, waterfalls, forest, and mountain peaks on our way to the remote town of Gustavus, the Gateway to Glacier Bay National Park. While most people see Glacier Bay and Gustavus from the bow of a ship, we will have the opportunity to experience these beautiful places in a gorgeously unique way – soaring from above. The professional pilots routinely fly in every kind of Alaskan weather and to remote towns along the coast of Southeast Alaska. They will point out features in the landscape below – including peaks, glacial icefields, waterfalls, towns, and more! – and keep an eye out for any wildlife we may fly past. Our flight may route through Juneau or go directly to Gustavus.
Glacier Bay National Park Visitor Center: Conveniently located right inside the Glacier Bay Lodge (our lodging during our stay), the Glacier Bay National Park Visitor Center will be our one-stop-shop for information on the local flora, fauna, natural and cultural history around Gustavus and the national park. Glacier Bay National Park is the ancestral homeland of the Huna Tlingit clans who sustained themselves for centuries on the abundant resources of the land and sea. Several exhibits explore the park’s natural and cultural history. There are several activities we can participate in, such as park ranger-led films, a 1-mile walk to Bartlett Cove, and a Healing Totem Talk in the evening in conjunction with the program at Xunaa Shuká Hít (Huna Tribal House).
Day Boat Sailing to Glacier Bay National Park: We will set sail on a high-speed catamaran from Gustavus for a 7-hour excursion that you will never forget. We’ll spend the day on the waters of Glacier Bay, see magnificent tidewater glaciers, ancient snow-capped mountains, whales, stellar sea lions, rare birds such as puffins, coastal bears, seals, eagles, and so much more. The landscape and ecosystems will change dramatically as we pass rainforests, lichen-covered rocks, and dramatic ice. We will linger by at the faces of the Margerie and Grand Pacific Glaciers, two towering masses of ice and snow rising 245 feet above the ocean and stretching another 100 feet beneath the water. The ice that calves from the face of the two glaciers is an average of 200 years old – watch the passage of time as they crash into the water. This incredible Alaskan tour will leave you speechless.
Day 0: Arrival Day
Upon your arrival into Juneau, your guide will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. Once you are settled, you will have free time to enjoy the state capital of Alaska. Your guide will let you know at what time to meet the next day to start your adventure through Alaska and the Yukon.
Meals on your own.
Day 1: Juneau – Mendenhall Glacier Viewing, Salmon Hatchery, and Whale Watching
We will start the day with a narrated tour of downtown Juneau and the city’s highlights. Then we’re off to the Mendenhall Valley, where we will have time to see the visitor’s center, hike through the Tongass National Forest, and view the famed Mendenhall Glacier. Hike to Nugget Falls, down to the lakeside beach, or check out the displays on glaciology. Upon our return, you have the option to join a tour of the salmon hatchery, or you can enjoy your free time exploring downtown. In the afternoon, we will board a catamaran to the coastal fishing town of Haines, and whale watch along the journey! We will pass Eldred Rock Lighthouse, one of the most photographed entities in Alaska, as we keep eyes out for sea lions, seals, bald eagles, Dall porpoises, humpback whales, orcas, and more! Upon our arrival in Haines, we will transfer you to your hotel. You will be at your leisure for the rest of the evening.
Included: B-L.
Day 2: Haines – Klukwan Native Village and Chilkat River Float
Today we will experience the native culture of the Tlingit people on this unique visit to Klukwan, the mother village of the Tlingit Nation, located 22 mile north of Haines. For hundreds of years the Chilkat Tlingit have lived off the bounty of this special place and their close connection to the land will be further revealed throughout our visit. Their Heritage Center provides access to art treasures that have previously not been available to the public. The Whale House collection, uniquely displayed in its place of origin, allows entrance to the Chilkat’s distinctive ethnic landscape. Before departing Klukwan, we will enjoy a picnic lunch while overlooking the glacially fed waters of the Chilkat River. There will also be time to visit the gift shop, where local native arts and crafts can be purchased. Leaving Klukwan we will float through the heart of the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. We will enjoy a scenic float trip (no whitewater) through the Chilkat Valley with great photo opportunities for Eagles and other wildlife amidst the grandeur of glaciated snow-capped peaks. We will spend 2 ½ to 3 hours on the water before returning to Haines. After your float, we will head back to downtown Haines, where you will enjoy free time for the rest of the day. Check out the beaches, hike in Chilkat State Park, wander the local museums, or check out the local brewery, cafes, and restaurants.
Included: B-L.
Day 3: Haines – Canoe on Chilkoot Lake, Coastal Hiking and Wildlife spotting
Our day will start with a drive to the Lutak Inlet and the Chilkoot River Valley. The Chilkoot River corridor offers incredible wildlife viewing: brown bears, eagles, mountain goats, and spawning salmon are all commons sights. Once at the lake, we will board our outboard canoes and explore the serenity of Chilkoot Lake. We will discover the inlets, coves, salmon spawning streams, and numerous waterfalls that spill from the mountains into this pristine lake. After our canoe adventure, we will return to the town of Haines and enjoy a picnic-style lunch at a private oceanside beach. Once we’re back in town, join a spectacular hiking adventure that immerses you in the incredible beauty of Southeast Alaska, where you will be surrounded with amazing mountain and ocean views. From the trailhead, spend the next 2 ½ to 3 hours hiking, surrounded by views of towering, snow-capped mountains and Lynn Canal. We will share with you our knowledge of the area’s flora and fauna, and the amazing glacial history of Alaska. You may see eagles, waterfowl, whales, seals, bears, and moose. Each group is outfitted with binoculars to maximize your opportunities to see up-close the wildlife and the spectacular mountain and river scenery. Afterwards, we will head to Chilkat State Park, which offers incredible views of the Chilkat Inlet, Rainbow and Davidson glaciers. The information center also has spotting scopes so you can spot the inlet wildlife, such as seals, porpoises, and whales. You will be able to spy on bears and mountain goats on the other side of the inlet. The evening will be at your leisure.
Included: B-L.
Day 4: Haines – Kroschel Wildlife Center Visit, Alpine Tundra Walk and Evening Wildlife Viewing
We will start our adventure-packed day with a narrated tour of historic Fort Seward. Continuing onto the Kroschel Wildlife Center, we will experience a hands-on visit and face-to-face encounters with rescued wildlife indigenous to Alaska and the Yukon. From this wildlife refuge, we will head up to the alpine tundra of British Columbia and explore the wildlife world above treeline. Towering peaks loom above in all directions. There are fantastic views of glaciers, cascading waterfalls, and wide expanses of alpine tundra. During the peak of the summer, there are a multitude of wildflowers. Golden eagles, ptarmigan, snowshoe hares, grizzly bears, and other wildlife frequent the area. Your guide will choose from a variety of trails and routes to best fit guest abilities. We will hike in the alpine tundra above Haines Pass; the exact route will depend on weather conditions and group ability, but wherever we go, we will enjoy gorgeous views and wandering trails. After our hike, we will head back down the highway for lunch at the 33 Mile Roadhouse. Arriving back into town, we will journey through the amazing Chilkoot Valley. On our journey to the Chilkoot River corridor, we take in coastal views along the longest fjord in North America, we may spot seals, sea lions, porpoise and whales feeding in these rich waters. The Chilkoot River is home to some of the best bear viewing in Alaska! The river’s huge salmon runs bring good numbers of bears every year. Situated among rugged glaciated peaks, it is home to numerous brown bears, mountain goats, salmon, river otters, and innumerable bald eagles. This area is a birdwatchers paradise with abundant local and migratory birds. Powerful spotting scopes or binoculars will often allow close-range views of mountain goats grazing in high alpine meadows and nesting eagles on this tour. After capturing images and experiencing the incredible natural beauty and wildlife of the Chilkoot River corridor, we’ll enjoy a seaside picnic of sandwiches, chips, fruit, and cookies. Following lunch, we will head to the mouth of the Chilkat River, home to the largest concentration of bald eagles in the world. Our final stop of the tour is habitat to all five species of wild Pacific salmon, drawing all of Alaska’s predators to its shores. The four ice-capped mountain ranges that surround the Chilkat River provide unparalleled photography opportunities.
Included: B-L.
Day 5: Haines & Gustavus – Raptor Center, Glacier Bay Sightseeing, and Sea Kayaking in Gustavus
After breakfast, we will visit the American Bald Eagle Foundation’s Raptor Center, an interpretive wildlife education center. We will watch a training session with the beautiful bird that is the symbol of America and learn about other native wildlife. After our raptor center tour, we will have the once-in-a-lifetime experience of flying over Glacier Bay National Park on our way to Gustavus. Glacier Bay is one of the most popular destinations for those visiting Alaska; however, most people see it from the bow of a ship. This sightseeing flight offers you the possibility to look down into crevasses hundreds (or thousands) of feet deep! Witness the rivers of ice flowing for miles down from the top of some of North America’s tallest mountains. Once in Gustavus, we will hop on our kayaks and cross the Icy Passage. During this excursion to Pleasure Island, keep an eye for sea otters, porpoises, sea lions, minke whales, orcas, seals and bald eagles. We will paddle along the coast to explore the multitude of intertidal creatures before returning to Gustavus for dinner and leisure time.
Included: B-L.
Day 6: Gustavus – Glacier Bay National Park Day Boat Tour and Flight to Juneau
Today, we will have an early start as we board the Glacier Bay day boat and sail 130 miles through the illustrious and jaw-dropping Glacier Bay. This 7-hour tour will take you on a journey through land- and seascapes rich with wildlife, sailing through a waterway that was under a river of ice only 250 years ago. A National Park Ranger will provide informational commentary throughout the tour. We will sail very close to an isolated island to observe seabirds and marine mammals. Tufted and Horned Puffins and the Common Murre nest here, alongside Pelagic Cormorants and Black-legged Kittiwakes. The area is also the best place to see Steller Sea Lions, as their feeding grounds are close! We will enjoy lunch amidst the icebergs from the tidewater glaciers ahead. After lunch, you will be able to get closer to the river of ice hundreds of feet thick and nearly a mile wide. This will be our chance to see and hear the ice calving into the water – something you will remember for years to come! Upon arrival back to Gustavus, we will board a plane to return to the Juneau airport, where you will be able to connect with a flight home or return to your hotel.
Included: B-L
Note: While not included in the cost, our guides can facilitate group dinners at our favorite spots in town.
Weather delays and associated considerations: Alaska Yukon Discovery Tours may change the scheduled itinerary due to weather, conditions, or operational conflicts. If, for any reason, one of the schedule itinerary elements is unable to operate as planned, we will implement alternate tour programming which may involve alternate locations and/or different activities.
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We work with the best upscale and conveniently located hotels in Juneau, Haines, and Gustavus. To that extent, we have partnered with the following lodging options to ensure the best experience possible for our guests.
Lodging in Juneau: Four Points by Sheraton
Four Points by Sheraton Juneau offers modern comfort in the historic downtown district of Alaska’s capital. With spacious accommodations, contemporary amenities, complimentary Wi-Fi, plush bedding, and both ocean and mountain-scape views, you won’t want for anything. Conveniently located just footsteps away from shops, restaurants, and museums. The hotel has a sports bar and grill and 24-hour fitness center, as well as waterfront access right out the door.
Lodging in Haines: Aspen Suites
Located in the heart of downtown Haines, Aspen Suites is a newly built, beautiful hotel with modern kitchenette studio suites. Restaurants, the Haines Brewery, grocery stores, and downtown shops are all within a few blocks of the hotel. Just a short walk down the hill and you’re at the picturesque Haines Boat Harbor!
Lodging in Gustavus: Glacier Bay Lodge
Glacier Bay Lodge offers the only hotel accommodations within the national park. The Lodge, tucked into the spruce trees that line Bartlett Cove, offers magnificent sunset views of the Fairweather Mountain range. With clean, comfortable, Alaskan-inspired rooms, you’ll rest well after your full days of adventure, surrounded by the quiet Alaskan rainforest. The lobby sports a massive stone fireplace to cozy up and reminiscence on the scenery around you in the evenings, and provides world-class meals straight from the Alaskan waters next door.
Trip Documents:
- Trip Itinerary – detailed trip itinerary
- Know Before You Go FAQs – Printable list of FAQs
- Juneau Travel Information – How best to get to and from Juneau, Alaska
- Packing List – Overview of personal clothing and accessories for your Alaska and Yukon travels
- Waiver – Printable waiver for your review
- Terms & Conditions – Overview of terms and conditions associated with this trip
Group Price: (+ tax, in USD)
Single Supplement: $855
Private Booking Price:
$8,320 Price per person – 2 people
$7,050 Price per person – 3 people
$6,300 Price per person – 4 people
$5,640 Price per person – 5 people
$5,310 Price per person – 6 people
All prices are per person based on a double occupancy.
What it is included in the standard vacation price?
- Professionally planned itinerary
- Expert guides as private escorts throughout your vacation
- Upscale hotel accommodations
- Breakfast and lunch per the itinerary
- All activities as listed on the itinerary
- All equipment necessary for all included activities
- Transportation to and from all included activities
- All admission charges for all included activities
- Transfer between destinations on the itinerary
- Airport transfers
Guests are responsible for the following:
- Air transportation to the departure city
- Gratuities for guides, bus drivers, waiters, and special guides
- Alcoholic beverages during included lunches
- Dinners (While not included in the cost, our guide can facilitate group dinners at our favorite spots in town)
- Travel Insurance
To book your adventure, follow the steps below:
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- Please call to confirm availability at 1-800-766-3396 or fill out an online form to request more information via this link:
- Place a deposit to reserve your spot; this can be placed over the phone by credit card, check in the mail, or through our payment gateway.
- Once the deposit is confirmed, you will receive a welcome packet with all the necessary registration forms and trip information. We kindly ask that you submit all the necessary trip registration information at least 45 days prior to your trip.
For private booking or custom-made itineraries, please speak to one of our consultants:
Call 1-907-313-4422
Monday – Friday
8am – 4pm – Alaska Standard TimeConnect with Us!