Bears, Trains & Icebergs Tour

Setting out on a journey through Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes in a single day sounds ambitious, but the Bears, Trains & Icebergs tour manages to pack an impressive array of sights and experiences into just 7 to 9 hours. This tour, offered by Chugach Adventures, has earned a near-perfect rating, with 97% of previous participants recommending it. If you’re short on time but want a taste of Alaska’s wild beauty, this is designed for you.

What makes this tour stand out? Firstly, the combination of a scenic train ride with close-up wildlife encounters and floating among icebergs makes for a truly varied day. Secondly, the guides are frequently praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the experience.

Of course, no trip is perfect, and a few reviews mention that the wildlife center might not fully meet everyone’s expectations. It’s worth noting that the tour’s value hinges on an appreciation for the journey rather than just the stops.

If you’re someone eager to see multiple facets of Alaska—its glaciers, wildlife, and stunning scenery—without the hassle of planning separate excursions, this tour likely suits you best. It’s especially ideal for travelers with limited time, families, and those who enjoy engaging guides and well-organized logistics.

Key Points

• Combines scenic train travel, river floating, and wildlife viewing into one day
• Well-organized with knowledgeable, friendly guides
• Offers excellent value considering the variety of activities included
• Suitable for most travelers, including those with mobility considerations
• The wildlife center is a highlight, but some find it underwhelming
• Expect stunning glacier views, icebergs, and Alaska’s iconic bears

Introduction: A One-Day Alaskan Adventure

Our review introduces the Bears, Trains & Icebergs tour as a well-rounded day out that captures the essence of Alaska’s wilderness without the need to spend days on the road. With just about 8 hours of exploration, you’ll cruise on the Alaska Railroad, float down a river among floating ice, and visit a wildlife conservation center—all tailored to give you authentic glimpses of this rugged landscape.

Two things we particularly love about this tour: the scenery from the train, which offers incredible panoramic views, and the variety of activities that keep the day dynamic. Whether it’s snapping photos of icebergs or spotting bears at the wildlife center, there’s a real “wow” factor at every turn.

One potential consideration is that the wildlife center may not be as expansive or natural as some wildlife enthusiasts hope. Several reviews mention that the zoo-like aspect might be underwhelming for those seeking a more “wild” experience. Still, it’s a worthwhile stop, especially because it supports conservation efforts and provides opportunities for close-up animal sightings.

This tour is best suited to travelers who want an efficient yet immersive taste of Alaska’s wilderness, particularly those who appreciate a mix of scenic train rides, boat adventures, and wildlife encounters. It’s ideal for visitors who value knowledgeable guides and seamless logistics.

What’s Included and What You Should Know

The tour costs $392 per person, which might seem steep at first glance. However, considering that it includes roundtrip Alaska Railroad tickets, a guided wildlife center tour, a boat float among icebergs, and a packed lunch, the value becomes clearer. The inclusion of snacks and the convenience of a mobile ticket further add to the hassle-free experience. Notably, alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, so bring your wallet if you’re in the mood for a toast to the Alaskan wilderness.

Most travelers book about 2 to 3 months in advance—indicating it’s popular, especially during peak seasons—and the small group size (max 20) ensures a more personal touch.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

Your day begins with a short shuttle ride to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center—a rescue and rehabilitation facility dedicated to injured and orphaned animals. With a guided tour lasting about 1.5 hours, you’ll get to see Alaska’s iconic wildlife—bears, moose, Dall sheep—and learn about their conservation stories.

Travellers consistently praise guides like Alesha, who is “very knowledgeable and personable,” making the experience both educational and engaging. As one reviewer notes, “The crew worked so well to ensure we had a great day,” highlighting the professionalism of this part of the tour.

While some visitors found the wildlife center a bit “low quality,” most agree it’s worth the visit for its conservation purpose and the chance to see bears up close. Several reviews emphasize that the center’s role as a refuge for orphaned animals adds a meaningful touch to the tour.

Spencer Glacier Iceberg Float

Next comes the highlight for many—the raft float among floating icebergs at Spencer Glacier. This 2-hour boat ride is the centerpiece for those craving the experience of touching or getting close to massive chunks of ice floating in pristine water. The float spans seven miles of the Placer River, offering spectacular views of glaciers and icebergs, which travelers describe as “breathtaking” and “magical.”

Guides like Quin and Kyle receive praise for their knowledge and friendliness, enhancing the experience with their storytelling. Multiple reviews mention the guides’ ability to spot and identify wildlife, including birds, which adds an educational element to the adventure.

Scenic Railway Journey

Traveling by the Alaska Railroad, you’ll cruise through some of the most stunning landscapes in the state. Passengers rave about the comfortable ride and the excellent commentary from guides Lori and Johanna. As one reviewer puts it, “The train was a nice, comfy ride with plenty of things to share,” and others mention spotting bald eagles and even beluga whales from the train windows.

While some feel that the train ride alone might not be enough for a full day, combined with the other activities, it offers a relaxing way to take in the scenery without the stress of navigating roads or driving.

The Logistics and Overall Experience

The tour’s logistics are carefully managed, with transportation, activities, and meals all seamless. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort in transit, and restrooms are available on board, which is important considering the full-day schedule.

Most reviews highlight how well-organized everything is—from the timing of stops to gear handling—making it accessible even for those with mobility issues. As Connie mentions, staff are “so friendly and helpful,” tailoring assistance to individual needs.

Does the Tour Deliver on Its Promise?

The overall consensus indicates that the Bears, Trains & Icebergs tour offers an authentic taste of Alaska’s spectacular wilderness, with a few caveats. The scenery, guides, and variety of experiences make it a good value for the price, particularly given how much is packed into a single day.

However, some reviews note that the wildlife center might not satisfy those expecting a large, natural habitat encounter, and it’s worth managing expectations accordingly. If you’re eager to see bears in their environment rather than in a zoo setting, this might be a minor point to consider.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

Michelle describes her trip as “amazing,” praising the perfect weather and the “outstanding” guide, Alex. Conversely, Jeanne mentions a less thrilled perspective about the wildlife center but still commends the overall logistics. Maureen felt the trip was “a little bit of a letdown,” preferring a fjord trip instead, but still appreciated the train and iceberg float.

Many travelers, like Kerri, call it a “bucket list” experience—particularly due to the water float among icebergs and the chance to see iconic animals. DeeLyte highlights the river float as their favorite part, emphasizing the scenery and expert guides.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour is generally well-loved, it’s not without small drawbacks. Some visitors mention that the wildlife center, while worthwhile, may seem more like a zoo than a wild habitat. Others note that the train ride, though scenic, might not be enough for those wanting a full wildlife safari.

The non-refundable nature of the booking means travelers should be sure of their plans beforehand. Also, if your expectations are strictly about seeing bears in the wild or untouched glaciers, you might find some elements less “wild” than hoped.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for busy travelers wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Alaska in a day, particularly those who appreciate a mix of scenery, wildlife, and adventure. It’s suitable for families, first-timers, or anyone who enjoys engaging guides and well-organized trips. If you’re after a relaxing, educational, and scenic day with photo opportunities of glaciers and icebergs, this tour ticks most boxes.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Taste of Alaska

The Bears, Trains & Icebergs tour offers a solid introduction to some of Alaska’s most iconic sights, all packed into a day that’s manageable for most. The combination of a scenic train ride, a float among floating ice, and a visit to a wildlife conservation center provides a mix of relaxation, education, and adventure.

While the wildlife center might not satisfy those seeking a truly wild encounter, the guides’ knowledge, the stunning scenery, and the seamless organization make this a memorable experience. For travelers looking for excellent value and authentic views of Alaska’s wilderness without the hassle of multiple bookings, this tour offers a compelling mix.

If you’re eager to see glaciers, spot bears, and float among icebergs—all while enjoying a comfortable, well-choreographed day—this trip is a great choice. It’s especially suited for those who want a taste of Alaska’s wild beauty without spending several days on more extensive tours.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it is designed to be accessible for most travelers, including families and those with mobility considerations, thanks to well-managed logistics and assistance.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 9 hours, making it a full but manageable day of exploration.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, roundtrip Alaska Railroad tickets are included, along with air-conditioned vehicle transfers to and from the wildlife center.

Are meals included?
A sack lunch is provided, and snacks are available. If you have dietary restrictions, it’s best to inform the provider in advance.

What will I see during the train ride?
You’ll enjoy panoramic views of Alaska’s landscapes, with the chance to spot bald eagles, possibly beluga whales, and other wildlife from the comfort of your seat.

How close will I get to the icebergs?
During the float at Spencer Glacier, you can expect to touch and be very close to floating ice chunks, creating memorable photo opportunities.

Are there any optional activities?
The tour is a fixed package, but the boat float and wildlife center are the main experiences. Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase if you wish to celebrate or relax.

How is the tour reviewed overall?
It’s highly rated, with 115 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, praised for its organization, guides, and scenery, though some mention the wildlife center as not quite living up to expectations.

In essence, the Bears, Trains & Icebergs tour offers a well-balanced, scenic, and educational day out that captures the spirit of Alaska’s natural beauty. Ideal for those short on time but eager for a broad, authentic experience—this is a trip you’ll remember long after leaving the Last Frontier.