Anan Wildlife Observatory
Located approximately 35 miles southeast of Wrangell in the Tongass National Forest, Anan is a nature lover's dream
come true!
Itinerary/Details
Beginning late June / early July, Pink Salmon arrive at Anan creek to spawn. Pink Salmon average only 3-5 pounds and are the smallest of 5 species of Salmon. They however make up for their size by quantity at Anan creek, which supports an annual run that is estimated to be in the 250,000 range. Now that's a lot of salmon! Anan creek literally turns solid fish with salmon on their way to spawn up stream. This naturally attracts Brown and Black Bear, Bald Eagles and Harbor Seals.
The action starts right away as this tour pulls up to AnAn. Harbor Seals and Bald Eagles greet and entertain passengers. As the skipper secures the boat, a U.S. Forest Service representative tells of the necessary regulations of Anan to keep it a safe and enjoyable place for all.
Next depart on a 1/2 mile walk to the observatory, your guide will point out various types of flora and fauna, birds and bears that may be viewed while walking the trail. The walk on the trail is often described as "worth the trip in itself "! Keep in mind that the trail is roughly 1/2 board walk 1/2 native trail. It is narrower than an average sidewalk and has about 150 steps up and down as we navigate the trail around Anan lagoon to the observation deck. The elevation gain is only around 150 feet from the boat to the deck.
After arriving at the observation deck, enjoy and take in the wonderful surroundings of majestic trees and rushing water as the bear feed on the salmon they catch. This all takes place within 50 feet of guest or closer. In 1999 a photo blind was built at creek level just across the stream from the main bear feeding area. This puts bear catching salmon about 20 feet in front of guest. Don't forget to watch for Bald Eagles flying by and setting in the huge Sitka Spruce trees at eye level.
Departure
Tour departs from: Downtown Wrangell
2012 Validity dates: July 1 through August 31, 2012
Duration: 6-8 hours
Departure Time: Departure times are flexible according to passenger's schedules i.e.: ferry arrival/departure times, plane connections and bear viewing.
Tour Price
2012 Pricing
$215 per adult/child
Package Includes
Rate Includes
All local taxes, permit fees, complementary beverage, map and narration and guide.
Please note: Bring a lunch, snacks and raingear. This tour requires a half mile walk (on a nice trail) but does have a lot of steps, Canes, walkers, high heels, bad vision etc, are not good on this trip and should be avoided. Anan is on a 60 people per day permit system by the USFS so permits are limited, you need to book ASAP for 2012 now.
