NATUREWATCH: Alaska Anan Creek Wildlife Viewing Site At a Glance

At a Glance - Species - Habitat - How to Get There - Links to More Info

	Description:  Anan Creek, located 30 miles southeast of Wrangell, 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 sea lions. 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: Visitors must recognize that Anan is NOT a zoo or a wild animal park where animals and people are safely segregated. Bears at Anan have full access to the entire area including the trail and observatory. 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 the Wrangell Ranger District at 907-874-2323. Directions: Anan Creek is accessible only by floatplane or boat. Go to the "how to get there" page in this website for detailed access information. Ownership & Management: USDA Forest Service, Tongass National Forest; Wrangell Ranger District (907) 874-2323 Closest Town: Wrangell, Alaska
		Best Viewing Season
		Map of Anan Creek This image will take you to directions to Anan Creek Wildlife Viewing Area.
		Important! Access to Anan can be tricky. Be sure to visit the "how to get there" link for detailed information.
		Photos Click on the photograph to view a photo gallery of Anan Creek Wildlife Viewing Site.