Fortress of the Bear Tours and Tickets

Q: What are the operating hours for Fortress of the Bear?

The operating hours for Fortress of the Bear in Sitka are seasonal. From May through September, it’s open from 9am until 5pm daily; in October it’s open on weekends only, between 10am and 2pm; and it’s closed between November and March.

Q: How much do tickets cost for Fortress of the Bear?

The price of admission to Fortress of the Bear is currently US$15 for adults, US$5 for ages 8-18, and free for kids 7 years and under. You don’t have to purchase tickets in advance of your visit.

Q: Are guided tours available at Fortress of the Bear?

Yes, you can take a guided tour of Fortress of the Bear, which lasts about 30 minutes. You can also book Sitka tours or Alaskan wildlife tours that include the rescue center as one of the stops on the day’s itinerary.

Q: What can I expect to see during a visit to Fortress of the Bear?

You can expect to see bears, naturally, during a visit to Sitka’s Fortress of the Bear. You’ll see black bears and Alaskan coastal brown bears from a safe distance, and have the opportunity to watch the creatures as they play, swim, eat, and sleep.

Q: Is there a best time of year to visit Fortress of the Bear?

Yes, although when to visit the Fortress of the Bear is dependent on its seasonal opening times. As it’s only open from May through October, and since most travelers are looking for lighter crowds, then try to avoid the summer and plan a September or October visit.

Q: How long does a typical visit to Fortress of the Bear last?

A typical visit to the Fortress of the Bear takes about an hour. The guided tour lasts around 30 minutes, after which you’ll have time to view the bears or visit the gift shop if you’d like.

17 results

Best Seller

Best of Sitka Land Tour / Bears, Raptors, Totems

Discover Sitka–and make efficient use of your time in Alaska–on this small-group tour led by a local guide. Take in the ocean and mountain landscape as you explore the coastline and visit many landmarks, including Sitka National Historical Park and Alaska Raptor Center. Come face-to-face with rescued brown bears, walk on forest trails, and enjoy plenty of photo opportunities. Refuel with drinks and snacks conveniently included, too.

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Best of Sitka Land Tour / Bears, Raptors, Totems

2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

4.8

(206)

from $130

Likely to Sell Out

Simply Amazing Sitka Tour: Fortress of the Bear, Alaska Raptor, & Totems

Experience Alaska through the eyes of a local with this Sights of Sitka tour, which stops at three of the area's top destinations. Start at the Fortress of the Bear, a rescue facility where you can see rescued Black and Brown bears. From there, head to the Alaskan Raptor Center to view birds of prey before visiting the Sitka National Historical Park. The park is home to Tlingit and Haida Totem poles, as well as a cultural center where you can learn about Indigenous history.

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Simply Amazing Sitka Tour: Fortress of the Bear, Alaska Raptor, & Totems

2 hours 30 minutes

4.6

(370)

from $124

Likely to Sell Out

Skip the impersonal, large-group bus tour and explore Sitka on a small-group day trip to the city’s top landmarks, with a range of departure times offered to fit your schedule. Your guide, who navigates for you, brings you to four highly-rated attractions, including Fortress of the Bear, the Alaska Raptor Center, and the Sitka National Historic Park. All entrance fees are included for your convenience.

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PREMIUM Sitka Scenic Tour

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.8

(434)

from $110

Sitka Sightseeing Tour including Fortress of the Bear and Totem Poles

2 hoursFree Cancellation

4.5

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from $100

Sitka Up Close: Bears, Eagles & Totem Forest Walk (Small Group)

Explore Sitka without the hassle of navigating on your own on a half–day tour to the city’s top landmarks, including the Fortress of Bears, National Historic Park, and Raptor Center. No need to plan logistics: Entrance fees are included for all stops on the itinerary. In addition to round–trip transportation from the Sitka cruise port, your guide provides live commentary about landmarks passed along the way.

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Sitka Up Close: Bears, Eagles & Totem Forest Walk (Small Group)

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.1

(69)

from $234

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Get to know Alaska’s historic city of Sitka on this small-group shore excursion limited to just 10 people. Aboard a comfortable van, cross the O’Connell Bridge to Japonski Island. See Sheldon Jackson Museum, Alaska Pioneer Home, and St. Michael’s Cathedral, and hear informative commentary on the sites from seasoned guides. Meet the rescued bears of Fortress of the Bear, and take in the marvelous scenery of Sitka National Historical Park.

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Sitka Scenic Tour

2 hoursFree Cancellation

4.4

(73)

from $100

Explore Beyond the Dock: Unforgettable Private Tour in Sitka

Discover Sitka’s colonial architecture, splendid wildlife, and rich history with ease on this private half-day adventure. Soak up the stunning mountain scenery during the drive between Sitka’s top landmarks and natural attractions, including Starrigavan Recreation Area to spot wildlife both big and small, and Baranof Castle, where more epic views await. In Sitka itself, tell your guide what interests you most and they’ll tailor the itinerary accordingly.

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Explore Beyond the Dock: Unforgettable Private Tour in Sitka

3 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(79)

from $429

Per group

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Bear & Forest Trek Tour in Sitka with Meal

Featured in USA Today! We take care of everything as soon as you step off the ship. Discover the enchanting landscapes of Sitka on a unique small-group land tour. Enjoy breathtaking views, majestic wildlife encounters, and a multi-course lunch featuring locally sourced ingredients. This unique experience, which includes a visit to one of our local trails in the Tongass Forest, combines convenience and personal touches, with knowledgeable guides leading you through scenic routes and hidden gems. With a maximum of 11 guests per vehicle, immerse yourself in Sitka's beauty while avoiding crowds and long lines. The tour includes fully guided admission to the Fortress of the Bear, ensuring a memorable and enriching journey. - Intimate small-group land tour, 1-11 per vehicle, or up to 25 per departure. - lunch provided featuring locally sourced ingredients - Visit top attractions like the Fortress of the Bear and scenic overlooks - Customize your route based on weather and group interests

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Bear & Forest Trek Tour in Sitka with Meal

2 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

from $175

Small Group Shore Excursion in Sitka end to end

Explore the captivating sights of Sitka on this comprehensive sightseeing tour. Traverse from the lush Starrigavan Recreation Area to the scenic Herring Cove, experiencing both well-known attractions and hidden gems. Highlights include a drive across O’Connell Bridge to Japonski Island, rich in World War II history, and visits to the Fortress of the Bear, a rescue center for orphaned bears, and Sitka National Historical Park, where Tlingit and Russian history come alive. Enjoy informative commentary from your guide as you uncover the stories that shape Sitka. - Convenient pickup from the cruise ship dock and downtown Sitka. - Visit Fortress of the Bear featuring rescued black and brown bears. - Discover the cultural heritage at Sitka National Historical Park. - Learn about Sitka's history from a knowledgeable local guide.

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Small Group Shore Excursion in Sitka end to end

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $161

Come join us on a 2.5 hour experience of Sitka's highlights, history and breathtaking views! One of Sitka's highlights that we'll take you to is the Fortress of the Bear. A non-profit bear rescue sanctuary for orphaned bear cubs. You will have the opportuntity to see five Coastal Brown Bear and three Black Bear! Another highlight included in the tour is Sitka National Historical Park. This stop dives into Sitka's Russian and Alaskan Native history depicted from the totem poles. The guide takes you to see multiple totem poles while sharing some of Sitka's history along the way. This is a great stop for photos of Sitka's forest, history and shore line view of our rocky beaches. This is a mild walking stop on the tour. Gentle reminder that we are not ADA accessible. Our last stop is on Japonski Island, a small island that connects to our main island by bridge. Japonski Island has our WW2 history, Rocky Gutierrez airport, Coast Guard Air Station/boat station and scenic photo stops.

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Sitka Historical Highlight Tour

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

5.0

(1)

from $130

from $350

Likely to Sell Out

Enjoy a fully narrated motorcoach tour to Fortress of the Bear, a working rehabilitation center for once-orphaned brown and black bears. Then, board an excursion boat to explore a glacier-carved fjord. Along the way, you will step ashore at a remote Alaskan homestead to bask in the warmth of a crackling campfire and learn about pioneers who came in search of riches or to make a living sustained by the area’s incredible natural resources.

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Alaska Bears and Silver Bay Homestead

3 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

5.0

(2)

from $269

Likely to Sell Out

Where the Wild Things Soar Sitka Bird Bear Salmon Run Tour

As featured on HGTV and USA Today's 10 Best. The only concierge-level private land tour in Sitka — max 7–11 guests, picked up directly at the cruise terminal or downtown. No shuttle lines, no stress, guaranteed on-time return to your ship. In mid-July through August, we walk the banks of the Indian River to witness the salmon run — the only Sitka tour that takes you there on foot with a fully guided trail through the ancient Tongass rainforest, where you'll discover native plants, their medicinal uses, and their role in Tlingit culture. Included: ✅ Fortress of the Bear — skip-the-line, admission & private guided visit ✅ Alaska Raptor Center — skip-the-line, admission & fully guided visit ✅ Guided trail walk & salmon run viewing (mid-July–August) ✅ Silver Bay scenic overlook ✅ Scenic coastal highway & downtown orientation drive ✅ Optional multi-course lunch from Misfit Island Cafe Private bookings welcome. Customizable routes available.

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Where the Wild Things Soar Sitka Bird Bear Salmon Run Tour

2 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

from $185

Per group

Likely to Sell Out

Sitka's Favorite Sites Private Land Tour up to 11 w/Meal option

The only concierge-level private land tour available in Sitka. Featured in USA Today, We handle everything from the moment you step off the ship, w/optional meal that captures the authentic local experience, personal connections & unforgettable moments. Avoid lines, crowds—guaranteed on-time return to ship & hassle-free day. Your group of up to 7 explorers per vehicle ensures an intimate encounter. (Lg groups up to 25 available) Your personal adventure guide greets you at your port, whisking you away to immerse yourself in a distinctive, customizable journey transcending the ordinary. We adapt the route to the weather and the abilities of our guests, visiting forest trails, discovering hidden waterfalls, and enjoying the breathtaking scenery. This includes stopping at the Fortress of the Bears for a personally guided tour to gain insights into these incredible creatures. Add our Lunch option from our tour menu & enjoy it at your leisure, packed picnic style, or in our cafe.

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Sitka's Favorite Sites Private Land Tour up to 11 w/Meal option

2 hoursFree Cancellation

4.6

(5)

from $1,159

Per group

Likely to Sell Out

On this unforgettable small group tour you’ll discover why Smithsonian Magazine called Sitka, Alaska, one of the Top 20 Small Towns to Visit! On your Sitka Shore Excursion you’ll make memories that will last a lifetime as your local guide shares with you a Sitka filled with amazing wildlife, incredible beauty and unbelievable images. On your excursion of historic Sitka, Alaska, you’ll walk among the towering Totems at the Sitka National Historical Park, visit our resident Brown Bears who were rescued from certain death at the Fortress of the Bears. Also visit a beautiful fjord (Silver Bay) and discover the amazing and true stories of Alaska’s most historic city. What you'll see: * Fortress of the Bears (Rescue Center) * Sitka National Historical Park (Totem Park) * Silver Bay (Scenic Fjord) *Japonski Island

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Sitka Scenic Private Tour

2 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(3)

from $699

Per group

Likely to Sell Out

Sitka's only Private Simply Amazing Tour

Explore Sitka, Alaska, with this private tour where you’ll see some of the best things this area has to offer. You’ll travel by passenger van to look for bald eagles and Sitka Black Tail deer. You’ll see rescue bears at the Fortress of the Bear non-profit rescue center. Get close to rehabilitated eagles, owls and other birds of prey at the Alaska Raptor Center, and finally travel to the Sitka National Historical Park to explore the rainforest. After that you can stop for refreshments.

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Sitka's only Private Simply Amazing Tour

from $1,495

Likely to Sell Out

Private Sitka Wildlife LAND & SEA COMBO for 6 w/meal

Don't miss a thing in Sitka with our Wildlife/Whale Watching boat & Land Combo Tour, Step off the ship, and we handle the rest, no lines or hassles. Your journey for up to 6 begins with a two-hour boat ride through Sitka Sound's pristine waters, immersing you in nature from our heated vessel to encounter whales, otters & other wildlife. Upon reaching downtown Sitka, the adventure transitions to a scenic two-hour land exploration. A personally guided tour in our mini-vans, traversing Sitka's landscapes, visiting local trails, waterfalls, and estuaries, and a glimpse of the Sitka road system end to end. As a highlight, your expert guide leads you through the Fortress of the Bears, witnessing the majesty of these creatures up close. Our carefully timed trips avoid the busiest crowds, ensuring a perfect experience. Finish your tour in downtown Sitka, exploring shops and attractions on your own or enjoying your meal picnic style at the picturesque harbor or our cafe.

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Private Sitka Wildlife LAND & SEA COMBO for 6 w/meal

4 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(1)

from $2,700

Per group

What are people saying about Fortress of the Bear

Simply Amazing Sitka Tour: Fortress of the Bear, Alaska Raptor, & Totems

Stuart_F, May 2026

Great tour to see the...

Great tour to see the bears, raptors and totems of Sitka with just enough time at stop. Driver was very personable.

Simply Amazing Sitka Tour: Fortress of the Bear, Alaska Raptor, & Totems

Shawna_D, May 2026

A great way to see all three experiences.

It was easy to connect with tour, small group, engaging guide. My only complaint was 2.5 hours wasn’t long enough to full enjoy the totem park, it felt rushed.

Sitka Sightseeing Tour including Fortress of the Bear and Totem Poles

Lee_A, Aug 2025

Very Interesting Tour

We had a wonderful time on this tour! We had a small group of seven people, and Bon, our guide was fantastic. He's a retired Forest Service employee and knows a lot about the flora and fauna of southeast Alaska. We stopped to see fish processing factories, Fortress of the Bears (a home for orphaned bear cubs), Silver Bay, and salmon spawning at Totem Park. Highly recommended!

Simply Amazing Sitka Tour: Fortress of the Bear, Alaska Raptor, & Totems

robyn_a, May 2026

Seeing Sitka through Christian and Baranof Tours.

It gave us a great overview of Sitka. The wildlife workers were able to give excellent information on the raptors, the bears, how they treat and release the injured. Our guide Christian from Baranof Tours was excellent, explanations were easy to follow.

Sitka Sightseeing Tour including Fortress of the Bear and Totem Poles

Kelly_G, Aug 2024

This is an excursion you definitely want to book when in Sitka.

Larry was a great driver and guide. His pride of Sitka was heartwarming. He made sure we learned all about Sitka, the town, the people, and the history. The Fortress of the Bear was fascinating. Not to mention, the bears were very fun to watch.

Simply Amazing Sitka Tour: Fortress of the Bear, Alaska Raptor, & Totems

Robye_L, May 2026

a great day to be had

I was fortunate to get to experience Sitka on a stunningly sunny day and definitely picked the perfect tour: “Simply Amazing Sitka Tour: Fortress of the Bear, Alaska Raptor, & Totems”, provided by Baranof Tours. The Raptor Sanctuary was informative and so amazing to be so close to these amazing creatures! Sadly, sorta, the day before our arrival 14 Ball’s Eagles were able to be released! Then came the Fortress of the Bear, a reuse of an old Sitka mill into a sanctuary for bear cub who would otherwise be euthanized due to state law. These gorgeous animals are a sight to be seen! We concluded our tour at the Totem Park and some regional indigenous people’s history. This is a worthwhile day! Our Guide, a former Traveling Nurse, was a perfect host with a great wit for this position!