Author: Sarah

Experience Unforgettable Bear Viewing Day Tour from Anchorage at Chinitna Bay

Posted on February 1, 2025 by - Uncategorized

Chinitna Bay: A Bear Viewing Paradise

Nestled on the western shores of Cook Inlet and on the southern end of Lake Clark National Park, your trip to Bear Mountain Lodge offers an incredible opportunity to witness Alaskan brown bears in their natural habitat. Chinitna Bay is known for its abundant bear population, particularly during the summer months when the tidal flats and meadows provide ample feeding grounds. Depending on the season, you might see bears digging for clams, grazing on sedge grasses, or fishing for salmon in the nearby streams. Observing these magnificent animals up close in their natural environment is a humbling and awe-inspiring experience.

The Chinitna Bay bear viewing tour is our first bear viewing tour to operate for the season, starting May 15 and running until August 31 giving early season visitors a chance to see Alaska’s incredible wildlife.

The Journey Begins: Scenic Flights Over Alaska’s Wild Beauty

Your Chinitna Bay bear viewing day tour starts with a breathtaking flight from our home base at Lake Hood in Anchorage. As you soar above the Alaskan wilderness, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of rugged mountains and sparkling glaciers. Witness the volcanic peaks of Mt. Redoubt and Mt Iliana and the tidal flats of Cook Inlet. All the while you’ll be able to chat with your pilot about the history and geology of the landscape using our two way headsets. The scenic flight alone is an experience worth savoring, setting the tone for an unforgettable day as you fly along Cook Inlet to reach the outskirts of Lake Clark National Park.

Male pilot navigates rugged terrain with volcanic Mt Redoubt seen from the window

Bear Viewing: Bear Mountain Lodge Experience

After your 90 minute scenic flight, you’ll reach a beautiful coastal landing strip and your pilot will land on the beach in a wheeled plane right outside of Bear Mountain Lodge. Stepping onto the sand, you’ll be greeted by the friendly faces of the lodge staff who will guide you into the main building for a bear safety briefing with snacks. The video ensures you’re well-prepared for the wildlife encounter ahead.

Once the briefing is complete, you’ll board a comfortable shuttle for a short ride along the beach. As the journey unfolds, keep your eyes peeled for brown bears roaming their natural habitat. Your guide will assess the bear activity and bring you to a location nearby with the best chance of seeing wildlife!

For the next few hours, you’ll have the unforgettable opportunity to watch the bears up close—whether they’re fishing for salmon, digging for clams, or foraging in the grass. Surrounded by the stunning beauty of Chinitna Bay and the towering peaks of the surrounding mountains, it’s an experience that feels truly immersive.

As your time with the bears comes to an end, you’ll return to the warm hospitality of Bear Mountain Lodge. After farewells to your hosts, you’ll board the plane for the return flight to Anchorage. Awaiting you on your seat is a thoughtfully packed snack bag including Alaskan sausage, chips from Alaska chip co., cookies, and fruit, perfect for your flight back to Lake Hood as you reflect on the incredible day.

Bear Mountain lodge shuttle bus parked on the remote beach of Chinitna Bay

What to Expect on Your Day Trip

  • Departure: Your day begins at Lake Hood Seaplane Base in Anchorage, where you’ll meet your pilot and receive a trip briefing.
  • Scenic Flight: Enjoy a roughly 90 minute flight to Chinitna Bay with commentary highlighting the natural features below.
  • Bear Viewing: Upon arrival, you’ll spend several hours in prime viewing locations, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who enhances the experience with insights about bear behavior and the local ecosystem.
  • Return Journey: After a day of unforgettable sights and sounds, you’ll take to the skies once more for your return flight to Anchorage.

bears eat the sedge grasses at Chinitna Bay

Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip

  1. Dress Appropriately: Layers are essential in Alaska’s variable weather. Bring waterproof outerwear and sturdy footwear for walking on tidal flats.
  2. Pack Essentials: A camera, binoculars, sunscreen, and insect repellent are must-haves for this trip.
  3. Follow Instructions: Listen to your guide’s advice and maintain a respectful distance from the wildlife to ensure your safety and the bears’ comfort.

Why Choose Rust’s Flying Service?

With over 60 years of experience, Rust’s Flying Service is a trusted name in Alaska aviation. Our commitment to safety, personalized service, and unforgettable experiences has made us a favorite among locals and visitors alike. When you choose Rust’s for your Chinitna Bay bear viewing adventure, you’re not just booking a tour—you’re embarking on a journey with a team that shares your passion for Alaska’s wild beauty. Rust’s Flying Service takes pride in adhering to responsible wildlife viewing practices. Guests are guided to designated viewing areas that ensure a safe and respectful distance from the bears, allowing you to observe their behavior without disrupting their routines.

Book Your Adventure Today

Sow and cub stand in a meadow eating sedge grasses in Chinitna Bay in Alaska

Chinitna Bay Bear Viewing Day Tour from Anchorage

When: May 15 – August 31st

Cost: $1095 per person + 3% transportation tax

Trip Time: 6 hours

Departure Times: 7:30am and 2:00pm

Activity Level: Moderate – some walking on unpaved terrain

De Havilland Otter on wheels at Bear Mountain Lodge in Chinitna Bay

Chase the Race: Experience the Iditarod with Expanded 2025 Day Tours from Anchorage

Posted on January 10, 2025 by - Iditarod

The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, often called “The Last Great Race,” is steeped in Alaskan history. Originating in 1973, the Iditarod pays homage to the heroic 1925 Serum Run, where sled dog teams delivered life-saving diphtheria antitoxin to Nome through treacherous conditions. This iconic race covers over 1,000 miles of rugged terrain, retracing portions of the historic Iditarod Trail used during Alaska’s gold rush era. Today, it stands as a celebration of the resilience of mushers, the strength of their sled dogs, and the enduring spirit of Alaska’s wild frontier.

From March 2nd – March 4th, Rust’s Flying Service invites you to experience this extraordinary event with our Chase the Race Iditarod tour. From breathtaking Iditarod scenic flights to exclusive access to remote checkpoints, this tour is the ultimate way to witness the “Last Great Race.”

Why Choose Rust’s Flying Service for Your Iditarod Adventure?

Rust’s Flying Service is Alaska’s premier air tour company, offering unparalleled access to remote wilderness and unforgettable memories. Our Iditarod day tours from Anchorage allow you to immerse yourself in the action while enjoying the stunning views of Alaska’s rugged landscapes.

Here’s why adventurers and race enthusiasts choose Rust’s:

  • Unparalleled Aerial Views: From the comfort of our well-maintained aircraft, you’ll soar above Alaska’s rugged wilderness, taking in spectacular views of frozen tundras, towering mountains, icy rivers, and maybe even see some mushers from the air!
  • Exclusive Checkpoint Access: Land at key race checkpoints to observe mushers and their teams up close as they rest, refuel, and prepare for the next grueling stretch of the trail.
  • Experienced Pilots: Our knowledgeable pilots ensure a safe and comfortable flight through Alaska’s rugged terrain.
  • Smaller Group Experience: Enjoy a personalized adventure with fewer people for a front-row seat to the race. We have planes that fit anywhere from 4 – 10 people.
Musher with dogs and sled checks in to Rainy Pass checkpoint during Iditarod

Photo by Nicole Alton

What to Expect on the Chase the Race Iditarod Tour

Your journey begins in Anchorage, where you’ll meet our team at Rust’s Flying Service. After boarding one of our classic aircrafts, the adventure takes flight—literally! You’ll follow the iconic Iditarod trail from above, marveling at Alaska’s vast, untouched wilderness. The views alone are worth the trip, with snow-covered forests, icy lakes, and winding trails stretching as far as the eye can see.

The highlight of the tour is landing at select Iditarod race checkpoints. Here, you’ll step into the heart of the action. Watch as mushers and their sled dogs take brief breaks, tending to the needs of their teams while preparing to tackle the next segment of the trail. These moments provide a rare and personal glimpse into the endurance, skill, and teamwork required by these athletes to compete in one of the world’s most challenging races.

For photographers, this is a dream opportunity. Capture the determination of mushers, the energy of sled dogs, and the striking Alaskan landscapes in a way that few others can.

Sled dogs take a rest at Rainy Pass checkpoint during Iditarod

The Iditarod: Alaska’s Last Great Race

Stretching over 1,000 miles from Willow to Nome, the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race traverses some of the most remote and rugged terrain in the world. Mushers and their teams face extreme weather, icy rivers, wild animals, and challenging mountain passes, showcasing their strength and resilience every step of the way.

The Iditarod isn’t just a race—it’s a celebration of Alaskan culture, history, and the unique bond between humans and their sled dogs. By joining us for the Chase the Race Iditarod tour, you’ll become part of this extraordinary story, witnessing firsthand what makes this event a cornerstone of Alaskan heritage.

Mushers and dogs with sled seen aerially running the Iditarod trail

Tips for Your Iditarod Scenic Flight and Tour

  1. Dress Warmly: March in Alaska can be cold, so layer up with insulated clothing, gloves, and boots.
  2. Bring a Camera: Capture the race action and aerial views. A telephoto lens is perfect for photographing sled dogs and checkpoints.
  3. Charge Your Batteries: Whether shooting with a mobile device or camera, it’s best to make sure all of your batteries are charged and maybe even bring an extra portable battery charger so you don’t miss capturing any once in a lifetime memories.
  4. Pack Light Snacks: While some checkpoints may offer refreshments, having extra snacks and water is always a good idea.

Book Your Iditarod Tour with Rust’s Flying Service

Rust’s Flying Service is your gateway to the adventure of a lifetime. Don’t miss your chance to experience the Iditarod up close with our Chase the Race Iditarod tour. Reserve your spot today to enjoy breathtaking Iditarod scenic flights and exclusive access to the race’s most exciting moments.

Musher with dog sled team running dog with red airplane in the background

We’ve expanded our options this year to include:

Iditarod Start Line and Trailside BBQ – March 2nd

Our adventure begins at our office in Anchorage, where we’ll board our planes and take off for the thrilling journey to Willow for the official start of the 2025 Iditarod! As we soar over the stunning Susitna Valley, keep an eye out for fans gathered on frozen lakes, eagerly awaiting the start of this epic race. Arriving in Willow, we’ll take a short walk to the heart of the action: the start line. Immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere as mushers and their teams take off on the last great race! After joining in the excitement, we’ll return to the plane and follow the trail where your pilot will touch down on the frozen Yentna River at the Iditarod Trailside Lodge. Here you’ll join your lodge hosts and locals for a bit of “trailgating” including a full bbq and fire pit. Depending on trail conditions you may catch the first few mushers pass before returning to Anchorage at sunset.

  • Trip Time: 7 hours
  • Pricing: $475 per person + 3% transportation fee

Rainy Pass Checkpoint – March 3rd

Depart Anchorage on Monday, March 3rd, and soar above the stunning Alaskan wilderness to Rainy Pass Lodge, the fourth checkpoint of the Iditarod Trail. Be there as mushers and their determined dog teams arrive at the checkpoint. Watch as they tend to their furry athletes, refuel, and prepare for the next leg of the race. Enjoy delicious trailside refreshments, savor a hearty lunch, and mingle with other passionate fans. This is your chance for an unforgettable adventure that few others will experience.

  • Trip Time: 7 -8 hours
  • Pricing: $895 per person + 3% transportation fee

Nikolai Village Experience – March 4th

Depart Anchorage on a morning flight to the tiny, yet historic village of Nikolai with a population of 125. As one of the first checkpoints after the rugged Alaska Range, some mushers strategically choose Nikolai to spend their mandatory 24 hours on the trail.  Witness the endurance of these elite teams as they arrive and prepare for the next leg of the race. Spend the day immersed in the Alaskan wilderness, observing the intricate workings of Alaska’s state sport. Watch as mushers tend to their dogs, strategize, and bond with the local community. Return to Anchorage, carrying with you the incredible experiences and lasting memories of the Iditarod.

  • Trip Time: 7 – 9 hours
  • Pricing: $1,280 per person + 3% transportation fee

Visit our website to learn more, or call us to secure your seat. Let Rust’s Flying Service take you into the heart of the “Last Great Race” and showcase the spirit of Alaska like never before.

A group of male pilots sit on the sidelines enjoying the events during Iditarod at Rainy Pass checkpoint

Photo by Nicole Alton

Best Cameras and Lenses for Capturing Bears in Alaska: A Photographer’s Guide

Posted on November 23, 2024 by - Uncategorized

Brown bears and cub eats grass in a field at Chinitna Bay

Chinitna Bay Bear Viewing

 

Hello there! Sarah here, Media Manager for Rust’s Flying Service and K2 Aviation with 14 years’ experience as a professional photographer. We frequently receive questions about camera equipment and settings for our bear viewing tours and I’d like to offer some insight on gear that works best for capturing the incredible wildlife experiences we offer.

Embarking on a bear-viewing adventure in Alaska is an unforgettable experience, and capturing these impressive creatures in their natural habitat requires a mix of skill and the right photography gear. Choosing a camera and lens combination or a well equipped mobile phone for aviation assisted bear photography means balancing portability and weight, as well as ensuring durability for Alaska’s sometimes harsh weather conditions. Many of our guests, armed with just their smartphones, capture amazing memories on our tours. While a dedicated camera can elevate your photography, you don’t need professional equipment to enjoy the experience.

Best Camera Types for Bear Viewing

In photography, there’s a popular saying: the best camera is the one you have with you. A shot with any camera is better than not capturing it at all. I’d take it a step further and say that the best camera is one you’re comfortable using. Bringing gear you’re unfamiliar with can cost you precious moments as you fumble with settings. My advice? Stick to the camera you know and are confident shooting with—it’s the surest way to make the most of every opportunity!

When it comes to capturing Alaska’s bears, you’ll want a camera that performs well in low light, has rapid focusing capabilities, and can capture sharp, detailed images from a distance.

  • Mirrorless Cameras are compact and lightweight, making them a favorite for wildlife photography. They excel in speed, ISO, and quiet shooting modes, an important feature to minimize disturbance to wildlife. Mirrorless is my personal choice in camera using the Sony A7R V.
  • DSLR Cameras are known for their reliability and robust build, often favored by photographers working in rugged conditions. These cameras tend to have a larger body with more weight.
  • Point and Shoot Cameras can be excellent tools for wildlife photography in the right circumstances. These compact cameras are lightweight and easy to handle. Look for models with a powerful zoom lens, as they allow you to capture detailed shots from a safe distance. However, they do have some drawbacks. Their smaller sensors often struggle in low-light conditions, which can be common in Alaska’s overcast environments, leading to grainy or less-detailed images. The zoom capabilities, while useful, may lack the reach or clarity of professional telephoto lenses, making it challenging to capture distant wildlife sharply.
  • Mobile Phones have significantly increased in quality and resolution throughout the years allowing you to control settings such as aperture and shutter speeds as well as shoot in RAW! You can now also purchase removable lenses to increase zoom. While mobile phones can never compete with the sensor sizes and full setting control of the mirrorless and DSLR cameras, they are a great option to relax and enjoy the experience while not having to lug around an extra bag of heavy gear.
Brown bear stands in front of Rust's Flying Service red and white Cessna Caravan aircraft with fall colors

Lake Clark Bear Viewing

Best Lenses for Bear Photography

Since bear-viewing is often done from a distance, a telephoto lens is essential for both safety and quality close-ups. Here’s a look at some of the best lens options.

Telephoto Zoom Lenses

Telephoto zoom lenses are essential for capturing bears safely from a distance, making them perfect for our Chinitna Bay Bear Viewing tour, where bears are often seen roaming grassy fields. A recommended range is 200-600mm, allowing for intimate shots that showcase the bear’s personality while keeping a safe distance. My personal choice is a 70-400mm lens for its versatility—it lets me frame the entire scene or zoom in for detailed close-ups. These lenses provide enough reach to capture stunning images without compromising safety and are still portable enough for backcountry adventures. However, remember that longer focal lengths require more stability, so bringing a tripod is a smart idea.

For those who shoot in low light or want added stability shooting handheld, look for a lens with vibration reduction. This feature helps reduce camera shake, making it easier to capture steady, clear images.

A brown bear flips a salmon caught in Lake Clark National Park in Alaska

Lake Clark Bear Viewing

Prime Telephoto Lenses

For ultimate clarity and detail, prime lenses are fantastic, though they’re less versatile in length. These lenses are perfect for our Katmai Bear Viewing tour particularly at Brooks Falls where the bears tend to stand in one spot fishing for long periods of time.

A 600mm prime telephoto lens is a powerful choice for wildlife photography, offering exceptional image quality and incredible reach. However, these lenses often come with a high price tag, making them ideal investments for seasoned photographers seeking professional-grade results. You can also rent lenses for travel to cut down on the investment.

For those wanting high clarity and sharpness without breaking the bank, a 400mm or 500mm prime lens can also be excellent options. They offer impressive detail while being slightly lighter and more manageable, providing flexibility and reliability for capturing wildlife in action.

Water droplets fall of the chin of a swimming bear at Redoubt Bay Alaska

Redoubt Bay Bear Viewing

Wide-Angle Lenses for Environment Shots

While telephotos are best for close-ups, a wide-angle lens can be great for capturing the landscape along with the animals. Our Lake Clark Bear viewing tour has incredible mountain scenes that would be perfectly captured with a wide angle lens.

A 16-35mm wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing expansive, scenic shots, allowing you to frame both the bears and the stunning Alaskan landscape in a single shot. Lightweight and often weather-sealed, lenses in this range are built to withstand outdoor conditions and offer sharpness across the frame, making them great for immersive, environmental photography. Bringing multiple length lenses will also be benefit on the flight to your bear viewing location. You are not going to want to miss out on the vast scenery of Alaska seen aerially from your flight.

 

Brown bear walks along sandy shore of a lake in Lake Clark National Park in Alaska

Lake Clark Bear Viewing

Three bears graze in the grass in Chinitna Bay Alaska

Chinitna Bay Bear Viewing

Camera Accessories for Bear Photography

  • Tripod or Monopod: A lightweight, sturdy tripod or monopod stabilizes your setup, reducing blur from camera shake, especially with telephoto lenses. Carbon fiber options are particularly suited for backcountry photography as they’re light and robust. There are also some really great tripods out there for mobile phones!
  • Teleconverter: If you already have a telephoto lens but want extra reach, a teleconverter can extend your focal length, like a 1.4x or 2x for additional zoom.
  • Waterproof Covers: Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable. Keeping your gear dry with a good waterproof cover is essential.
  • Memory Cards: You are going to find yourself taking a lot of photos on this tour and you will run out of storage quick, especially if you are shooting continuous or in RAW. I would recommend bringing at least two 128GB cards but the more storage space the better!
  • Batteries: On an half day bear viewing I end up going through at least two batteries. I always make sure to bring three or four as backup.
Brown bear splashes in a blue glacial lake in Alaska while trying to capture salmon

Lake Clark Bear Viewing

Settings and Techniques for Capturing Bears in the Wild

These days, even mobile phones allow you to adjust your settings! To bring out the best in your gear, consider these techniques:

  • Use a Fast Shutter Speed: Bears can move unpredictably, so a shutter speed of at least 1/1000 sec is ideal for capturing action shots and water droplets from bears splashing. A fast shutter speed is a must on our Redoubt Bay Bear viewing tour where you’ll find the bears shaking off water around the lake.
  • Opt for Silent Shutter Mode: Some cameras offer a silent or electronic shutter mode that reduces noise, helping you avoid disturbing the bears.
  • Adjust ISO Carefully: In low-light conditions, increase your ISO but keep an eye on noise. Modern mirrorless and DSLR cameras often handle ISO well up to 3200 or even 6400 with minimal noise.
  • Use Continuous Shooting Mode: This is a must for fast moving bears to ensure you haven’t missed a moment. This mode takes images continuously at the camera’s maximum speed while the shutter button is held down. My Sony A7R V can shoot up to 10 frames per second.
Brown bear catches fish in lake in Alaska on Lake Clark National Park

Redoubt Bay Bear Viewing

Final Thoughts on Choosing Your Gear

Bear viewing is both thrilling and unpredictable, and a well-chosen gear setup can help you capture the majesty of these animals in a way that does the experience justice. Consider a mirrorless option for portability, a DSLR for durability, or a mobile phone with detachable lens for convenience.

Renting or investing in quality gear can make all the difference, ensuring that you capture your Alaskan adventure with precision, clarity, and respect for the wildlife. With the right equipment in hand and the knowledge of how to use them, you’ll be ready to create stunning, memory-worthy images of one of Alaska’s most iconic animals.