Official websites use .gov
A .gov
website belongs to an official government organization in the
United States.
Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock
(
) or https:// means you've safely
connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only
on official, secure websites.
Anan Creek Wildlife Viewing Site At a Glance
Description:
Anan Creek, located 30 miles southeast of Wrangell on the Tongass National Forest, supports one of the largest pink salmon runs in Southeast Alaska. A wide variety of fish-eating animals are attracted to the seasonal abundance. Here, visitors may see black and brown bears, bald eagles, and harbor seals. Anan is accessible only by floatplane or boat. It features a 1/2 mile long boardwalk and observation platform with a covered shelter.
Facilities, Activities and Species These symbols denote available facilities, permitted activities and species of interest. The species icons will lead you to a page about that species.
Viewing Information:
The Forest Service built an observatory at the falls so that people may view feeding bears in relative safety and comfort. The observatory is accessed by a scenic boardwalk trail that begins at the mouth of Anan Lagoon. It is a moderately easy half mile hike along the shores of the lagoon and creek to the observatory. This hike does require climbing over rocks near the beach.Black bears are the main wildlife attraction at Anan. Black bears use the entire Anan drainage, but are most commonly seen at the falls near the observatory where they tend to congregate due to the large number of salmon. During the salmon run, from late June to late August, visitors may also see brown bears, bald eagles, several species of gulls, and harbor seals in the area.
Safety First:
Never bring food to the observatory.
If you plan on visiting Anan, please carefully review guidelines for behavior in bear country
The weather at Anan can often be cold and rainy, even in mid-summer. A warm jacket and rain gear are recommended. Rubber boots are also advised as the trail can be muddy at times. Hypothermia can be a hazard throughout the year.
Fees, Passes and Permits:
Located 30 miles south of Wrangell, access by boat or floatplane. Season is mid-June through mid-September. Passes required during peak season July 5 to August 25 and cost $10. Commercial guides available at nearby communities.
Facilities:
Boardwalk trail is 1/4-mile from beach to observation deck, shelter, viewing blind, and outhouse. Anan Bay Cabin requires a reservation. Restrictions: No camping near Anan Creek; visitors must stay on trails. Look for: brown and black bears, pink salmon, eagles, otter, and seals. Saltwater fishing only.
For more information or to obtain a pass please contact Recreation.gov online or Call Toll Free 1-877-444-6777 (International 518-885-3639)