7 Days of Bear Viewing and Photography in Alaska Itinerary

Start your day early with a flight from Anchorage to Katmai National Park, one of the best places in Alaska for bear viewing. Upon arrival, you'll join a guided tour that takes you to Brooks Falls, where you can watch brown bears catching salmon in their natural habitat. This is an incredible opportunity for wildlife photography.

Continue exploring Katmai National Park with your guide, who will take you to various spots known for bear activity. You'll have plenty of chances to capture amazing photos of these majestic creatures as they roam freely in their natural environment.

Return to Anchorage in the evening and unwind with dinner at Glacier Brewhouse. This popular eatery offers a variety of Alaskan dishes and craft beers brewed on-site. Try their famous wood-grilled salmon or hearty seafood chowder.

Drive from Anchorage to Seward along the Seward Highway, one of America's most scenic drives. Your first stop will be at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you can see rescued animals such as bears, moose, and bison up close. This center is dedicated to preserving Alaska's wildlife through conservation efforts.

After visiting the conservation center, continue your journey to Seward and embark on a Kenai Fjords National Park cruise. This tour offers stunning views of glaciers, fjords, and marine wildlife including sea otters, seals, puffins, and possibly even whales. It's another fantastic opportunity for photography enthusiasts.

Conclude your day with dinner at The Cookery, a top-rated restaurant in Seward known for its fresh seafood and farm-to-table dishes. Enjoy locally sourced ingredients prepared with creativity while reflecting on your day's adventures.

Fly from Anchorage to Juneau, the capital city of Alaska. Start your day with a visit to the Mendenhall Glacier, one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska. Take a guided tour that includes a hike to the glacier's edge and an opportunity to explore the ice caves. The stunning blue ice formations make for incredible photography.

In the afternoon, head to the Mount Roberts Tramway for a scenic ride up the mountain. At the top, you'll find hiking trails with panoramic views of Juneau and the surrounding wilderness. Keep your camera ready for potential wildlife sightings, including bald eagles and black bears.

Enjoy dinner at Salt, a highly-rated restaurant in Juneau known for its innovative Alaskan cuisine. Try dishes like reindeer sausage or fresh Alaskan halibut while enjoying views of Gastineau Channel.

Begin your day with a whale-watching tour in Auke Bay. Juneau is one of the best places in Alaska to see humpback whales, and this tour offers plenty of opportunities for close-up encounters and stunning photographs. You'll also have a chance to see other marine wildlife such as sea lions and porpoises.

After your whale-watching adventure, visit the Alaska State Museum to learn more about the state's history and indigenous cultures. The museum features exhibits on native art, Russian colonial history, and natural history, providing a comprehensive overview of Alaska's heritage.

Dine at The Rookery Cafe, a popular spot in downtown Juneau known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious food. Enjoy locally sourced ingredients prepared with care while reflecting on your day's adventures.

Take an early morning ferry from Juneau to Skagway, a historic town known for its Gold Rush heritage. Upon arrival, explore Skagway's charming downtown area with its well-preserved buildings from the late 1800s. Visit attractions like the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Visitor Center to learn about this fascinating period in history.

In the afternoon, embark on a scenic train ride aboard the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway. This historic narrow-gauge railroad takes you through breathtaking landscapes including mountains, glaciers, gorges, waterfalls, tunnels, trestles, and historic sites along its route.

End your day with dinner at Skagway Brewing Company, where you can enjoy hearty pub fare paired with locally brewed beers. Reflect on your journey through Alaskan history while savoring dishes like fish tacos or bison burgers.

Begin your last day in Alaska with a visit to the University of Alaska Museum of the North. This museum offers a comprehensive look at Alaskan history, culture, and wildlife. The exhibits include everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary art, providing a well-rounded understanding of the region.

In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to Chena Hot Springs Resort. Here, you can relax in the natural hot springs while surrounded by beautiful Alaskan wilderness. The resort also offers guided tours of their ice museum, where you can see intricate ice sculptures and even enjoy a drink at the ice bar.

Conclude your Alaskan adventure with dinner at Pump House Restaurant & Saloon, a historic restaurant located on the banks of the Chena River. Enjoy dishes like Alaskan salmon or reindeer sausage while taking in views of the river and reflecting on your incredible journey through Alaska.