Alaska Wildlife and Landscape Photography Tour, Wrangell, Alaska

Photograph bears in their natural habitat with expert guidance, small-group access, and breathtaking scenery.

A Wrangell, Alaska photo tour offers a strong mix of wildlife, coastal scenery, and time on the water, but bears are the true highlight of this adventure. Most days begin by heading out by boat through protected channels, with forested mountains rising straight from the shoreline. Sea lions rest on rocky outcrops, humpback whales surface and feed in the distance, and bald eagles are frequently seen along the coast as you travel between locations.

Bears are a major focus, especially at Anan Creek, one of the best places in Alaska to photograph both black and brown bears fishing in the same stream. The viewing platform and photo blind allow for close perspectives while maintaining safety and proper distance. You’ll photograph bears catching salmon, navigating slick rocks, interacting with each other, and guiding cubs along the creek. We especially love the green backgrounds with moss, trees, and ferns as a backdrop. There is steady activity and behavior to work with, which keeps each session productive.

Glaciers are another key part of the experience. LeConte and Shakes Glacier are accessible by boat and offer impressive ice formations, floating chunks of ice, and occasional calving. The combination of blue icebergs and surrounding rainforest creates strong visual contrast and a variety of compositions, from wide landscape scenes to tighter details. Several photogenic waterfalls feed into the ocean.

The tour balances time on the boat, coastal exploration, and extended sessions at Anan Creek. Each day brings different light, wildlife activity, and conditions, giving photographers a well-rounded portfolio by the end of the trip.

Photography Highlights

• Bear behavior in action: Photograph bears fishing for salmon, interacting with each other, and cubs playing along the shoreline.

• Close-up opportunities: Mothers and cubs resting or nursing in natural coastal habitat.

• Bald eagles: Regular chances to photograph eagles along the coast and near salmon streams.

• Strong landscapes: Rugged peaks, fjords, and coastal estuaries provide powerful backgrounds.

• Extended shooting time: Long summer days mean more flexibility and better light at the beginning and end of each day.

• Additional wildlife: Sea otters, whales, and sea lions are often present, with harbor seals seen floating on icebergs.

• Glaciers and waterfalls: Photograph the blue ice of LeConte and Shakes Glacier, along with waterfalls cascading down steep granite cliffs.

• Floating icebergs: Deep blue tones and sculpted shapes

• Forested Mountains rising straight from the water

• A balanced mix of bears, marine wildlife, glaciers, and coastal scenery

Dates and Details

When: July 24–30, 2027 (4 spaces left)
Starting and Ending Point: Wrangell Airport (WRG) with regular Alaska Airlines service

Who Should Join

This tour is open to anyone passionate about nature photography, from beginners to professionals. You should be comfortable handling your camera, love nature, and enjoy small group camaraderie. Participants need to be able to climb in and out of small boats while carrying gear and should be in good overall health. Short hikes of 1–2 miles may be included.

Group Size

Small groups and two leaders mean more learning, flexibility, and closer access to wildlife. You’ll avoid the crowds and have more personal instruction throughout the trip.

Pricing

Cost: $9295 per person
Deposit: $3000
Balance: $5,995 (due 6–9 months before departure)

The final payment schedule varies by vendor requirements, and flexible payment options are available.

Price Includes:

• 6 nights lodging at a Wrangell waterfront hotel (double occupancy)

• 2 boat rides to Anan Creek

• 1 boat tour to LeConte Glacier

• 1 boat tour to Shakes Glacier and the Stikine River

• 1 boat tour dedicated to marine mammals

• Professional photography instruction and wildlife expertise

Not Included:

• Airfare

• Tips for boat drivers

• Food and drink

Meet Your Leaders

John Slonina is a professional nature photographer with more than 35 years of experience and decades exploring Alaska. He is well-versed in bear behavior and spends extensive time researching each location to understand seasonal wildlife activity, light, and habitat. His deep knowledge of Alaska’s landscapes and wildlife helps participants capture powerful, creative images. John’s teaching style blends technical skill, field awareness, and a strong eye for storytelling.

Jenny Bowlden is an experienced wildlife and landscape photographer who has traveled to Alaska for over two decades and has co-led many Alaska photo tours with John. Skilled in photographing wildlife behavior, she brings both expertise and enthusiasm to the field. Jenny enjoys helping photographers refine composition, work with natural light, and capture authentic moments in nature.

Together, John and Jenny combine decades of experience, field leadership, and personalized guidance to make this expedition both educational and inspiring.

Questions? Email us or visit the link below to reserve your spot.