Watch Wild Brown Bears in the Heart of Alaska

Departing from Soldotna, AK, fly into remote bear country and step into a world of tall grass, serene water, and bears moving freely through their natural habitat. Guided by experts.

Our Trips

Big River Lakes Fly-Out Bear Viewing

Kustatan River Fly-Out Fishing

Harding Ice Field/Scenic Glacier and Wildlife Tour

Big Game Drop Hunts and Transport

Brown bear and cub among the rocks and alders

Big River Lakes Fly-Out Bear Viewing

This is Alaska bear viewing at its most thrilling. Fly in a floatplane across the Cook Inlet with experienced bush pilots, land on remote water, and board one of our boats to get up close to some of the region’s most active brown bear feeding grounds. You’ll watch as bears fish for salmon, lounge in the grass, and tussle with cubs — all framed by the wild, rugged landscape of Big River Lakes. This trip is ideal for first-time bear viewers looking for consistent sightings and great photo opportunities without needing to hike.

$800 per person
5–6 hour fly-out trip
June – August
Scenic flight + boat-
based bear viewing
Consistent bear activity &
ideal for beginners

Kustatan River Fly-Out Fishing

For those craving a quieter, wilder setting, this fly-out trip to the Kustatan River delivers. Tucked away on the western side of the Cook Inlet, this trip takes you off the beaten path to a remote river system where wildlife move undisturbed through thick grass and along gravel bars. The setting is peaceful, primal, and perfect for guests who want a more intimate look at Alaska’s wild side. If you’re a return visitor looking for a less commercialized spot to fish, Kustatan’s your spot.

$800 per person
5–6 hour fly-out trip
Late July – end of August
Bank fishing in park like setting
Secluded river setting with fewer crowds
The best place to catch silver (coho) salmon!

Snow-covered volcano above a lakeside lodge with green-roofed cabins

Harding Ice Field/Scenic Glacier and Wildlife Tour

1 hour awe-inspiring flight over the famous Harding Ice field and several glaciers. On these flights we will try to see as many different species of wildlife as possible; goats, sheep, black and brown bears, moose, coyotes and wolves!

$275 per person or a minimum of $995
Available upon request when schedule allows

Floatplane at a wooden dock with flower planters at sunset

Big Game Drop Hunts and Transport

Unit 15a,c – 16b

Alaska Resident $4000
Extra $750 per moose
Non-Resident $6000
Extra $1000 per moose

Unit 19b

$8500 pp (min 2)
Extra $750 per moose
$2500 per person for non-
hunters
Max Baggage wt per person
for all hunts 120lbs plus weapon
7-8 day hunts (unless otherwise requested)
Come out field early (special
request while in field) $1500 extra
Unless we can fit
in schedule

Booking/cancellation policy

$2000 deposit if booked more than a year in advance (non-refundable). If less than a year in advance 50% down. Paid in full 90 days prior to hunt. Cash or cashiers check only for hunts. Hunts cancelled less than 90 days prior to hunt will result in NO REFUND

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the cancellation policy

Cancellations for our fly-out trips must be made at least 10 days before check-in. In those cases we will issue a full refund minus our $30 booking fee per person. For inclement weather or mechanical problems, we will happily offer a full refund if there are no available dates times to make up your trip. For refusal of same day alternative departure time there is no refund.

Will I see other Alaska wildlife on the trip?

While we can’t guarantee sightings of any kind, many of our guests get the opportunity to see different types of birds, moose, wolves, otters, beavers, seals. As for bears, you can expect brown bears, but you might also see black bears – so be on the lookout!

What do I need to wear or bring on the trip?

You don’t need much – just be sure you check the weather and come prepared for anything. We recommend bringing a rain jacket even if it looks like it’s going to be good weather – you never know in Alaska! And most importantly, don’t forget your camera!

Dress in layers as it could be really cool if it’s cloudy. If the sun comes out it can get hot. While we recommend bringing a small lunch cooler or backpack with your own snacks and drinks, you can start your morning right with us! Please arrive at our new check-in office, where we will be serving coffee, baked goods, and breakfast treats.

Why do you offer boat-based bear watching?

We do all of our bear watching from a boat just a few feet offshore – this is the safest way to view the bears and is less disruptive to the wildlife.

Watching from the boat gives visitors a unique view of Alaskan bears in the wild. Plus, shooting photos offers you the great backdrop of the mountains, glaciers, and forests of the West side of the Cook Inlet! Only a few fly-out bear viewing operators on the Kenai Peninsula offer boat-based viewing, and our visitors love it!

What is your payments policy?

Half down payment by credit card is required to book your trip. The remaining half will come out on the same form of payment 10 days before your trip unless you call before then with a different form of payment.

What is the difference between the bear viewing only and the bear viewing and fishing trips?

Both trips take place in the same vicinity. If you choose the fishing option, the guide will prioritize fishing before focusing on bears. While you may see bears while fishing, the guide cannot pause the activity for close-up photography. This option is ideal for those who love to fish but also want to see bears. If you are a photographer or primarily interested in bears, the bear viewing only tour is the best choice for you.

Photos

Testimonials

“Excellent Bear Viewing”

This trip exceeded our expectations! Jeremy was an excellent, fun pilot who engaged with us on the flight and answered any questions. If you haven’t been on a float plane, don’t wait to book! Once we landed, a boat was there to pick us up to go bear watching and oh boy did we see bears! 11 of them. One mama bear even had triplet cubs with her. You get so close to them you do not need binoculars. The mama bears were fishing right in front of us. Was AMAZING! Other boats were fishing and catching their limits. River Rock will make sure you have the best experience. Definitely booking again with them if we ever make it back to AK!— Kristen

“Incredible adventure”

“Amazing Alaskan Experience”

Absolutely the best trip I’ve ever been on! Jeremy the pilot was amazing. His attention to detail for safety and passion for flying is addictive. Nate the fishing guide had us catching pinks almost immediately. We had two families of bears that hung around all day for photo opportunities. We explored, fished and did some great things in Alaska. But this was absolutely hands down without a doubt our favorite! These guys are awesome. If you want the full “Alaskan experience” with top notch guides and pilot go with Jeremy. Can’t wait to be back!— John

“Excellent Guided Trip”

About

River Rock Outdoors is a family-run outfitter based in Soldotna, Alaska, offering unforgettable fly-out adventures into the state’s most remote and beautiful places. Whether you’re here to see wild brown bears, cast a line, or experience the backcountry from above, our guides deliver every trip with care, safety, and local knowledge. We keep things personal, welcoming you with fresh coffee, baked goods, and breakfast treats to get you fueled up before you head into the backcountry.

Book With Alaska’s Trusted Guides

Have questions? Ready to book? Give us a call or send a message. We’re here to help you make the most of your time in Alaska.

Watch Wild Brown Bears in the Heart of Alaska

Our Trips

Big River Lakes Fly-Out Bear Viewing

Kustatan River Fly-Out Fishing

Harding Ice Field/Scenic Glacier and Wildlife Tour

Big Game Drop Hunts and Transport

Frequently Asked Questions

Photos

Testimonials

About

Book With Alaska’s Trusted Guides

Contact Us