Published on
October 28, 2025
Wrangell, Alaska, nestled in the heart of Southeast Alaska, offers one of the most exceptional and authentic wildlife experiences in the state. Among the most coveted experiences is bear viewing at the Anan Bear and Wildlife Observatory, a destination renowned for its rare opportunity to observe both black and brown bears during the peak salmon run. Local tour operator Muddy Water Adventures, founded by lifelong Wrangell resident Zach Taylor in 2016, is championing this unforgettable adventure, showcasing the advantages of local expertise in delivering safe and authentic wildlife encounters.
Muddy Water Adventures: A Local Touch for Unique Bear Viewing Tours
Muddy Water Adventures stands out in the crowded world of Alaskan wildlife tourism. The company operates with a clear focus on combining unparalleled local knowledge with a commitment to safety and sustainability. With a crew born and raised in Wrangell, the company is deeply rooted in the community. Their expertise, honed over decades of living and working on the water, enables them to provide a truly local perspective on bear behavior, as well as a precise understanding of the region’s tides, salmon runs, and weather patterns.
By leveraging this local knowledge, Muddy Water Adventures provides more than just a tour—it offers a carefully crafted wildlife experience that allows guests to witness black and brown bears in their natural habitat. The tours are conducted during the peak salmon season, which runs through July and August, when bear activity at the Anan Bear Observatory is at its most intense.
Anan Bear and Wildlife Observatory: A One-of-a-Kind Destination
The Anan Bear and Wildlife Observatory, located within Tongass National Forest, is one of the few places in Alaska where visitors can observe both black and brown bears feeding at the same time. The site sits along Anan Creek, a salmon-rich waterway that attracts bears in droves as they feast on the abundance of pink salmon during their annual run. The observatory provides multiple vantage points for visitors to watch the bears from a safe distance, offering a unique, up-close look at these powerful creatures as they hunt, fish, and interact.
The accessibility of Anan Bear Observatory is what makes it particularly special. Visitors do not need to traverse rough backcountry trails or deal with excessive crowds. Instead, a comfortable, guided experience awaits, offering the chance to witness wildlife in its most natural form. The U.S. Forest Service manages the observatory and places strict limits on the number of visitors each day to preserve the sanctuary’s delicate ecosystem and to ensure that bear viewing remains a safe and sustainable activity.
Local Insight Drives Perfect Timing for Bear Sightings
When booking a bear viewing tour with Muddy Water Adventures, guests can rest assured that the timing is perfect, thanks to the company’s deep local knowledge. Unlike large, generic tour operators, the Wrangell-based team is able to adjust schedules to align with the best times for wildlife viewing, ensuring the best possible experience. Every detail of the trip—from the timing of departures to the choice of marine routes—is carefully coordinated to maximize wildlife sightings.
Muddy Water Adventures also takes full advantage of the area’s unique geography. The company uses specially designed, comfortable vessels that are well-suited for navigating the waters of Southeast Alaska, including the custom-built 26’ FRAGO and two 28’ Bentz jetboats, Stikine Spirit and Denali. These boats are built for the region’s challenging waters, providing safety and comfort throughout the journey. The vessels feature heated cabins, comfortable seating, and marine restrooms on select boats, ensuring a smooth ride for guests traveling between Wrangell and Anan Creek.
A Safe and Comfortable Experience
Safety is a priority for Muddy Water Adventures, and every aspect of the tour has been designed with guest safety in mind. Trained local guides accompany small groups to the observatory, offering expert advice on bear behavior and wildlife observation. For added security, each guide is equipped with bear spray and high-powered rifles, adhering to strict protocols for managing encounters with wildlife. These measures ensure that guests can enjoy the experience without worry, while respecting the natural environment.
In addition to safety, comfort is a key component of the Muddy Water Adventures experience. The jetboats are designed to be as comfortable as possible, allowing guests to relax during the 1-hour transit from Wrangell to Anan Creek. Once at the observatory, a short but scenic walk along a well-maintained trail leads guests to the viewing platform, where they can spend hours watching bears and other wildlife, such as eagles and marine mammals.
What to Expect from the Anan Bears Tour
The Anan Bears Tour typically lasts between 5 to 6 hours, including the 1-hour marine transit each way. Upon arrival at the observatory, guests will disembark and embark on a short half-mile walk through a compact gravel and bridge trail, which leads to the viewing platform. Once at the platform, guests can observe bears from a safe distance, typically for about three hours. The tour operates on a strict “no food” policy on the trail to avoid attracting bears. However, bottled water is allowed for hydration.
The trail and observatory access are limited to small groups to minimize disruption to the wildlife and to ensure an intimate viewing experience. For guests with mobility constraints, Muddy Water Adventures is happy to adjust logistics with advance notice, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the adventure.
Booking and Availability: Secure Your Spot Early
The Anan Bears Tour is available from July through August, with daily availability varying based on demand. Since the observatory has a limited capacity, early reservations are recommended to secure your spot. Tours are available for independent travelers, but those arriving by cruise ship will find the company’s office just a short 300-foot walk from the dock. This proximity makes the tour an excellent option for cruise passengers looking to enhance their Alaskan adventure.
A True Alaskan Adventure
Wrangell and the surrounding waters of Southeast Alaska are a world apart, and Muddy Water Adventures offers an authentic way to experience this wild, untouched corner of the world. By combining local knowledge, dedication to safety, and a passion for wildlife, the company provides an unforgettable journey to one of the most sought-after wildlife viewing destinations in Alaska.
For travelers seeking a truly exceptional bear viewing experience, there is no better way to encounter the wildlife of Southeast Alaska than with Muddy Water Adventures.
