Some wildlife encounters are measured in seconds. Others unfold over hours, allowing photographers to slow down, observe, anticipate behavior, and create images that tell a story.

We're excited to introduce Silver Salmon Creek: Coastal Brown Bears of Alaska, the newest addition to the Backcountry Journeys lineup. This all-new workshop takes photographers to one of Alaska's most celebrated bear photography destinations, where massive coastal brown bears roam freely along the beaches, tidal flats, and meadows of Lake Clark National Park.

Unlike many bear photography experiences that rely on viewing platforms or distant observation, Silver Salmon Creek offers the rare opportunity to photograph these incredible animals on foot, accompanied by experienced guides who have spent years working safely alongside Alaska's wildlife. The result is an immersive experience that allows photographers to capture authentic moments while developing a deeper appreciation for one of North America's most iconic predators.

Why Silver Salmon Creek Is Unlike Anywhere Else

Silver Salmon Creek has earned a reputation among wildlife photographers as one of Alaska's premier coastal bear destinations—and for good reason.

Throughout the summer, bears emerge from the surrounding forests to graze on sedges, dig for razor clams, patrol the shoreline, and eventually feast on spawning salmon. The diversity of behaviors creates endless photographic opportunities, whether you're hoping to capture intimate portraits, dramatic action, environmental landscapes, or compelling behavioral storytelling.

With only a small group of photographers, our workshop is designed around maximizing time in the field. Rather than rushing from location to location, we'll spend extended sessions observing bear behavior, waiting for the light to change, and helping guests create thoughtful, portfolio-worthy images.

One of the biggest frustrations photographers often experience on traditional Alaska bear trips has nothing to do with the bears; it's the schedule.

Many bear photography expeditions stay at lodges that require guests to fly to and from the bear-viewing area each day. While these fly-in operations provide incredible experiences, they also require groups to leave the field before the day's best light arrives in order to catch scheduled flights back to their accommodations.

At Silver Salmon Creek, that's no longer the case.

Because we're staying at the bear-viewing location itself, photographers can remain in the field through the most magical hours of the day. Instead of packing up just as the light turns warm and soft, we'll continue photographing as golden hour unfolds across the beach, creating opportunities for glowing backlight, dramatic silhouettes, rich reflections, and beautifully illuminated wildlife portraits.

For wildlife photographers, access during the best light can be every bit as valuable as access to the wildlife itself, and that's exactly what makes this workshop so special.

Comfortable Lodging in the Heart of Bear Country

Our remote lodge sits directly on Silver Salmon Creek, placing photographers just steps away from one of Alaska's most productive wildlife habitats.

Rather than spending valuable time commuting to the bears each morning and evening, guests can relax between photography sessions while remaining immersed in the incredible coastal landscape. Comfortable accommodations, hearty meals, and welcoming hospitality provide the perfect balance after long days in the field, allowing everyone to recharge before heading back out when the light and wildlife activity are at their best.

It's a level of access that simply isn't possible on many Alaska bear photography itineraries, and one of the defining advantages of this new Backcountry Journeys workshop!

Meet Your Guides

Every Backcountry Journeys workshop is led by photographers who are not only accomplished behind the camera but passionate about helping others grow. Silver Salmon Creek is no exception.

Trevor LaClair brings together a rare combination of wildlife biology, conservation, and photography. After earning degrees in Fisheries & Wildlife and Biology, Trevor guided throughout the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, where he spent countless hours tracking grizzlies and observing wolves in the wild.

His adventures have since taken him from British Columbia and the Serengeti to Komodo National Park and Australia's Great Barrier Reef, always with a camera in hand and a passion for connecting people with the natural world. Trevor's calm teaching style, deep understanding of wildlife behavior, and enthusiasm for adventure make him an outstanding guide for photographers hoping to capture meaningful wildlife images!

One of the most exciting additions to the Silver Salmon Creek schedule is a special Women's-Only departure led by wildlife photographer and educator Tiffany Taxis.

This flagship workshop combines the extraordinary photographic opportunities of Silver Salmon Creek with a welcoming, community-focused environment designed specifically for women photographers. Whether you're attending your first wildlife workshop or looking to travel alongside like-minded photographers, this departure offers the perfect balance of learning, encouragement, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Tiffany has spent multiple seasons guiding photographers throughout both Katmai and Lake Clark National Parks, giving her an intimate understanding of Alaska's bears and the environments they call home. Her background also includes guiding in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, where she helped photographers capture iconic wildlife while developing their technical and creative skills.

From photographing coastal brown bears on foot to sharing field techniques, camera settings, composition tips, and creative approaches throughout the workshop, both of our guides common goal is simple: help every guest leave with stronger photographs, greater confidence, and memories they'll never forget.

A New Standard for Alaska Bear Photography

Silver Salmon Creek represents everything Backcountry Journeys strives to offer: remarkable wildlife encounters, expert instruction, small-group experiences, and carefully designed itineraries that put photographers in the right place at the right time.

With unmatched access to coastal brown bears, the freedom to photograph through golden hour, experienced photography guides, and an unforgettable setting along the shores of Lake Clark National Park, this workshop promises to become one of our most popular Alaska experiences.

If photographing wild brown bears has been on your photography bucket list, there's never been a better opportunity to experience one of Alaska's most extraordinary destinations alongside the Backcountry Journeys community!
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