Overview
Anan Wildlife Observatory is among the most remarkable wildlife viewing experiences in the Tongass National Forest, and one of the few places in the world where you can reliably observe both brown bears and black bears fishing the same salmon stream simultaneously. The USFS manages the site on Anan Creek, about 30 miles southeast of Wrangell, with a covered viewing platform that provides close-range observation of bears working the pink salmon run that peaks in late July and early August. On peak days, dozens of bears may be visible from the platform.
The "trail" portion of this experience is short: a 1-mile round trip from the boat or floatplane landing area to the viewing platform, through dense Tongass rainforest. The 100 feet of elevation gain is negligible. The physical experience of the hike is not the point. The point is the observatory itself, where the USFS has created a structure that allows wildlife viewing at close range without disturbing the animals' natural behavior.
Dogs are not permitted at Anan, which is one of the few Tongass trails with this restriction. The prohibition protects both the dogs and the wildlife experience for other visitors. A permit ($10/person, as of March 2026, verify current requirements at Recreation.gov) is required from July 5 through August 25. This is peak bear viewing period, and permits book out months in advance. Checking current conditions and permit availability before planning a Wrangell visit is essential.
Getting There
This site has no road access. All visitors arrive by floatplane or boat from Wrangell, approximately 30 miles north by water.
Guided tours are the standard approach for most visitors. Wrangell-based operators offer floatplane and boat tours that include transportation, guide service at the observatory, and typically run 3 to 5 hours total. The Wrangell Ranger District maintains a list of permitted commercial operators. Tour pricing varies; book directly with operators for current rates.
Independent boat access is possible for visitors with a private vessel and experience navigating Southeast Alaska's coastal waters. The approach to Anan Creek involves reading tides and navigating to a forest service dock. The Wrangell Ranger District can provide navigational information. All independent visitors still require permits during the July 5 to August 25 permit season.
Float trips from Wrangell can also access Anan as part of a longer coastal kayak or motorboat expedition. This is an advanced option requiring appropriate vessel and navigation skills for the open waters of the area.
The Trail
From the landing dock, a maintained gravel trail leads 0.5 miles through old-growth temperate rainforest to the viewing platform. The forest here is prime Tongass ecosystem: dense Sitka spruce, western hemlock, moss-covered floor, and a creek audible from the trail before the platform comes into view. The 100-foot elevation gain is minimal.
The viewing platform is covered and provides direct sight lines to Anan Creek's prime fishing pools. A smaller secondary viewing area at a lower creek section provides a different angle on the action. Bears fish at predictable locations along the creek, and the USFS staff or guides can orient visitors to the best watching positions.
At the observatory, Leave No Trace principles apply in full. No food or food wrappers anywhere near the viewing area. No approaching bears beyond the designated viewing areas. Voices low. The USFS has established specific conduct guidelines at the site to maintain the quality of the experience for bears and visitors alike.
When to Visit
Mid-July through mid-August represents the peak period. The pink salmon run is at its largest, and the concentration of bears fishing Anan Creek is at its maximum. This is when permits are most contested.
Late July and early August is the specific sweet spot most guides and experienced visitors identify as peak viewing. The salmon run is fully underway, the bears have settled into feeding patterns, and the days are long.
Outside the permit season (before July 5 or after August 25), access is free and bears may still be present if salmon remain in the creek. However, the viewing quality is lower and less predictable. Early and late season visits are better suited to visitors who have seen peak season before and want a quieter experience.
What to Bring
Rain gear is mandatory in Southeast Alaska. Carry waterproof jacket, waterproof pants, and waterproof footwear regardless of the Wrangell weather at departure, as conditions at Anan Creek can differ.
All food and scented items must be managed carefully. The USFS enforces strict food handling rules at the observatory. Store all food in sealed containers during transit and at the viewing platform. Review bear canister requirements for broader context on food storage practices in Tongass bear country.
Binoculars or a camera with a long lens enhance the experience. The observatory platform provides close viewing, but optical equipment allows detail observation without the visual limitations of unaided eyes.
Practical Details
Permits (as of March 2026): Required July 5 through August 25 at $10 per person. Reserve through Recreation.gov. Book as early as possible. Peak-period permits go quickly.
No dogs: Dogs are not permitted at Anan Wildlife Observatory. No exceptions.
No roads: Plan all logistics around floatplane or boat transportation from Wrangell. Ferry passengers connecting through Wrangell can often book same-day or next-day tours.
Wrangell access: Wrangell is served by the Alaska Marine Highway ferry system and regional air carriers. It is a smaller community than Juneau or Ketchikan, with a limited but functional tourism infrastructure. Most Anan tours are booked in Wrangell through operators who advertise at the ferry terminal and visitor center.
USFS contact: Wrangell Ranger District, (907) 874-2323. Staff can confirm permit availability, current bear activity, and permitted tour operators.
For broader context on planning a Tongass National Forest visit, see the Tongass forest guide. For visitors considering the America the Beautiful pass, note that the Anan timed-entry permit is a separate reservation fee not covered by the annual pass.