If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable Alaskan wildlife experience, look no further than the Lake Clark Bear Viewing tour with Rust’s Flying Service. The availability of our bear viewing locations align perfectly with the salmon run in each area giving the best chances of seeing brown bears. Our Lake Clark tour is our only bear viewing that continues to run after August 31st giving late season travelers the opportunity to experience Alaska’s wildlife in their natural habitat.
Situated at the headwaters of Bristol Bay, this once-in-a-lifetime adventure takes you into the heart of Lake Clark National Park, where towering mountains, coastal plains, and active volcanoes set the stage for some of the best brown bear viewing in Alaska. Although Lake Clark is the 7th largest National Park in the United States at over 2,500,000 acres, due to its remote location it is the 4th least visited park averaging around 18,000 visitors a year. You’ll never forget your visit to one of America’s most inaccessible national parks!
The Journey Begins: Scenic Flights Over Alaska’s Wild Beauty
You’ll begin your journey at Lake Hood, one of the world’s busiest floatplane bases, where you’ll meet our friendly staff for check in. After being briefed by your pilot and loaded onto one of our classic aircraft, you’ll head southwest over Cook Inlet to the foothills of Lake Clark National Park. Along the way, take in breathtaking views of rugged mountain ranges, shimmering glaciers, and the volcanic peaks of Mt. Redoubt and Mt. Iliamna. You might also spot Beluga whales in the waters of Cook Inlet or catch a glimpse of the expansive tidal flats below. With two-way headsets, you can chat with your pilot about the region’s rich history and fascinating geology. Your pilot will choose the optimal route based on weather and the best scenic opportunities.
After a stunning one hour and ten minute flight, you’ll land on the wild coast of Lake Clark National Park—a protected habitat home to a large concentration of brown bears. Once on the ground, you’ll spend several hours in the field with an expert guide, observing bears as they fish for salmon, and care for their cubs. With no crowds and no fences, this immersive experience allows you to witness Alaska’s wildlife in its most natural setting.
Bear Viewing: Redoubt Mountain Lodge Experience
Redoubt Mountain Lodge sits on a unique 5-acre inholding originally deeded in 1960 as a trade and manufacturing site to a Homer family, who built the first log cabin. Surrounded by what later became Lake Clark National Park & Preserve in 1980, the site changed hands several times—operating as Telaquana Lodge in the 1980s and later as a private retreat. In 1999, the property was purchased, renovated, and reopened in 2000 as Redoubt Mountain Lodge. Since then, it has continued to evolve, with annual upgrades and a commitment to providing an exceptional wilderness experience in the heart of Alaska. Redoubt Mountain Lodge is the only lodge and privately owned property on the 9-mile long, glacier-fed Crescent Lake.
During your bear viewing tour, you will spend approximately 7 hours at the lodge taking in the incredible views and searching for bears along the shores of pristine Crescent Lake. From the safety and comfort of a pontoon boat, you may be able to witness a variety of Alaska’s wildlife including: eagles, trumpeter swans, brown bears, black bears, and salmon. With a bit of luck from Mother Nature, you’ll watch sow’s play with cubs and fish for salmon while listening to the distinct call of bald eagles. With experienced guides leading the way, this experience offers a perfect blend of adventure, education, and awe-inspiring wildlife encounters in one of Alaska’s hidden gems. A freshly prepared lunch is served at the lodge, featuring wild Alaska salmon, rice, and a crisp salad.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip
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Prepare for weather: Dress in layers and prepare for Alaska’s changing weather
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Capture your memories: with a camera with telephoto lens, point and shoot, or fully charged phone
- Make the most of viewing: with binoculars
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Protect your eyes and skin: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and bug spray help protect your from the elements
- Listen to guides: Bear safety is taken seriously and your cooperation ensures a safe experience for all
Why Choose Rust’s Flying Service for Your Alaska Bear Tour?
As a locally owned and operated company with over 60+ years of experience, Rust’s Flying Service is known for delivering authentic and safe flightseeing adventures. Our Lake Clark bear viewing tours are not only expertly guided, but they begin with a breathtaking scenic flight from Anchorage, giving you aerial views of glaciers, mountain ranges, and sparkling turquoise lakes before landing on a remote beach in bear country.
Rust’s Flying Service is proud to offer some of the most scenic and ethical bear viewing tours in Alaska. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife photographer or a first-time visitor looking to connect with the wild, our Lake Clark bear viewing experience delivers unparalleled access to Alaska’s most iconic residents.
Book Your Lake Clark Bear Viewing Tour Today
Lake Clark Bear Viewing Tour from Anchorage
When: August 1 – September 25
Cost: $1245 per person + 3% transportation tax
Trip Time: 10 hours
Departure time: 8am
Activity Level: mild