Into the Wild: A Local’s First Time Experiencing Bear Viewing
By: Marilyn Alvarenga-Gaxiola
I’ve lived in Anchorage, Alaska, my whole life, and like a lot of locals, I never really got around to doing the “touristy” stuff. But this past summer? That changed. Big time.
Thanks to a lucky “plus one” invite, I ended up on what can only be described as a once-in-a-lifetime trip with Alaska Bear Adventures—and I’m still not over it.
The day started early (and I mean early ) as we made our way to Homer the previous day, then boarded a small charter plane to Lake Clark National Park and Preserve. The flight alone was unreal—unforgettable views of the Alaskan coastline, mountains, and untouched wilderness. And then, boom: we landed on the beach. Like, the actual beach. That was just the start.
Once we touched down, our small group suited up, got our gear, and prepped for the real adventure: tracking and watching grizzly bears in the wild. One of the first things our guide (who was also our pilot) told us was that we needed to walk together in a tight “clump,” the bears would think we were one giant bear. I mean, is that not the cutest and funniest visual ever? A bunch of camera-toting humans waddling around pretending to be one big bear.
And honestly, it worked from what I experienced.
We spent the day walking across the beach, quietly watching these incredible creatures in their natural element. No fences. No enclosures. Just us and the bears. They were lounging, sunbathing, digging for clams, even hanging out as a family. I had never been that close to bears before (which, as an Alaskan, you usually don’t want to be), but this was different. Safe. Guided. And full of respect for the animals and their space.
Some folks had the full wildlife-photographer setup—tripods, zoom lenses, camo vests. I had my iphone. But even with just an iPhone, I captured moments that still make my jaw drop.
It was humbling. Awe-inspiring. Kind of surreal. And above all else, unforgettable.
I’ve lived here in Alaska all my life, but seeing Alaska like this made me feel like a wide-eyed tourist again—in the best possible way.
If you ever get the chance to go on a bear-viewing trip, take it. You’ll leave with muddy boots, full memory cards, and a heart absolutely bursting with wonder.
