Your Guide To The Admiralty Island National Monument

Just across the water from downtown Juneau lies one of Alaska’s most remarkable wild places: Admiralty Island National Monument, known to the Tlingit people as Kootznoowoo—“Fortress of the Bear.” It’s a place where old-growth rainforest meets quiet coves, eagles circle overhead, and brown bears roam one of the most protected ecosystems in Southeast Alaska.

If you’re thinking about adding Admiralty Island to your Juneau itinerary, this updated guide covers everything you need to know: how to get there, what permits you’ll need, safety essentials, and what to expect once you arrive.

Where Admiralty Island Is Located

Admiralty Island sits just southwest of Juneau. It’s close enough for a day trip yet remote enough to feel worlds away. There are no roads, very few established facilities, and limited cell service. This is exactly what makes it so special.

Travelers visit for bear viewing at Pack Creek, kayaking in calm coastal waters, backcountry solitude, and a glimpse into Alaska’s rich cultural and ecological heritage.

How to Get to Admiralty Island

Because there are no roads or public docks on most of the island, all travel begins in Juneau.

Floatplane from Juneau

A floatplane is the most common and scenic way to reach Admiralty Island. Flights typically take:

• 20–30 minutes depending on destination
• Depart right from Juneau’s harbors or airport
• Offer unbeatable aerial views of rainforest, waterways, and the Inside Passage

Visitors book directly with local air operators. Silverbow Inn does not offer packages or arrange tours.

Alaska Marine Highway Ferry (Limited Schedule)

The Alaska Marine Highway is a network of ferry routes that crisscross the waters of the Inside Passage. The ferry occasionally provides service to Angoon, one of the island’s few communities. This option works best for flexible travelers, as schedules are limited and subject to change seasonally.

Boat Charter or Guided Trip

Some licensed outfitters offer boat-based excursions or wilderness drop-offs. Marine conditions can be variable, so floatplanes are generally the more reliable option.

Pack Creek Bear Viewing: What’s New and What’s Required

Pack Creek is one of the most renowned brown bear viewing sites in Alaska, and regulations help protect both wildlife and visitors.

Permit Season

• Required June 1–September 10
• Daily capacity limited to 24 visitors
• Permits available on Recreation.gov
• Only approved operators can lead guided trips

If you’re visiting outside permit season, the area remains open, but the same wildlife safety rules apply.

Wildlife Safety: Exploring “Fortress of the Bear” Responsibly

Admiralty Island is home to an estimated 1,600 brown bears, giving the island one of the highest densities of bears in North America. Whether you’re on a guided trip or exploring independently, a few essentials help keep everyone safe:

• Stay at least 100 yards from bears
• Make noise on trails to avoid surprising wildlife
• Carry bear spray and know how to use it
• Store food in bear-resistant containers
• Never run from a bear; back away slowly if needed
• Drones are not permitted in Pack Creek or near wildlife

This is one of Alaska’s most incredible wildlife habitats, and responsible behavior helps keep it that way.

Backcountry Camping and Regulations

Camping is allowed in most parts of Admiralty Island outside Pack Creek. Because the area is remote, self-sufficiency is key.

Here’s what’s important to know:

• No general camping permit required
• Bear canisters are mandatory
• Pack out all trash and food waste
• Set camps at least 200 feet from streams and lakes
• Follow Leave No Trace principles at all times
• Fire restrictions vary by season

The island is managed by the U.S. Forest Service and Alaska Department of Fish & Game, so regulations may differ depending on where you plan to go.

Guided Tours and How to Visit Responsibly

Although the Silverbow Inn does not offer tours or packages, Juneau is home to several licensed operators offering:

• Pack Creek bear viewing trips
• Kayaking expeditions
• Cultural experiences around Angoon
• Drop-off/pick-up services for backcountry travelers

Choosing a permitted, knowledgeable guide ensures that your experience is both memorable and aligned with conservation efforts.

When to Visit Admiralty Island

Your experience will vary depending on the season:

• Summer (June–August): Peak bear viewing and salmon runs
• Early Fall / Late Spring: Quieter trails and softer light for photography
• Off-Season: Limited access but extraordinary solitude

Most visitors planning a Pack Creek trip visit between late spring and early fall, when permits are available and wildlife activity is high.

Where to Stay When Exploring Admiralty Island

If you’re heading to Admiralty Island, Juneau makes the perfect home base, and staying downtown puts you right where you want to be. Our downtown Juneau hotel is close to tour operators, walkable to the waterfront, and within easy reach of local dining, shops, museums, and outdoor adventures.

While we don’t offer packages or arrange Admiralty Island experiences, our team is always happy to share local insights and help you get oriented before your wilderness adventure.

When the day is done, come home to excellent Alaska amenities like warm hospitality, a rooftop hot tub, and a restful night’s sleep. It’s everything you need for your next Juneau experience.