Hey friends, whatcha up to this summer? If you haven’t made any plans yet (or maybe you have a break in your schedule) we have a really good idea to offer up. For lovers of wildlife, Fortress of the Bear in Sitka, Alaska is an absolutely incredible attraction. But don’t worry, it’s not just an average ‘zoo’ type of experience. In fact, it’s completely the opposite. See what we mean…

The Fortress of the Bear is a non-profit bear rescue facility that provides protection and care to rescued orphans in an enriching, educational environment.
Flickr - Robert Karma
An unassuming exterior of cement and brick walls leads way to one of the most wow-worthy animal sanctuaries throughout the entire world.
It's incredible to see this original and innovative creation of a habitat for orphaned bears that are no longer able to survive in the wild and on their own.
Flickr - Robert Karma
The entire staff at Fortress of the Bear, along with their dedicated and compassionate volunteers, interns and the support of the local community truly do help drive the heart and soul of this incredible facility.
The first thing you'll notice are those totally adorable bears located in a widespread nature sanctuary below.
Flickr - Robert Karma
Make sure your camera is ready or your phone is charged because there will be plenty of memorable moments that you'll want to capture!
Observation decks wind throughout the outdoor facility, providing visitors the opportunity to observe the bears in their natural sanctuary element.
Facebook - Fortress of the Bear
But when you look down, prepare to get this look in exchange...
Facebook - Fortress of the Bear
Holy intimidating batman! WOW. This is one stare down that we wouldn't want to experience in the wild.
After you fall in love with the cuteness below, read all about what it's like to raise these beautiful orphaned animals that wouldn't stand a chance of survival without the help of the sanctuary.
Facebook - Fortress of the Bear
From live salmon in the streams waters below, to delicious fruit popsicles and Easter egg hunts.
Facebook - Fortress of the Bear
The team at Fortress of the Bear are committed to treating the orphaned animals like family by continuously striving to enrich their lives on a daily basis.

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The facility is also dedicated to providing continued training and overall wellness to assure that the bears have the best quality of life possible.
Facebook - Fortress of the Bear
If you're quiet enough, you just might catch one of these big burly bears in the middle of a nice afternoon snooze.
Flickr - Robert Karma
Check out those claws... Rawwwwr!
But if you come at feeding time, you might end up watching a show similar to that of a pinata swinging match, except the bears swing at stuff like hanging deer carcasses donated by local hunters.
Facebook - Fortress of the Bear
Pictured here, Lucky and Toby watch as Balloo swings at the hanging deer.
Feeding time is also a great way to spot multiple bears in one photo shot, sometimes even wrestling and yelling over the scraps.
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It can get pretty rowdy when a predator goes after it's meal, especially when it's live and swimming!
Seal the deal with a smooch.
Facebook - Fortress of the Bear
Just when you're thinking about wrapping up your trip here, you'll catch moments of compassion between the bears that will make you want to stay to 'oooh and awww' all day long.
Don't leave without checking out the gift shop. With exclusive designs made (mostly) in-house or by local artists, you'll find something for everyone to get outfitted with.
Facebook - Fortress of the Bear
You can also visit the online store by clicking HERE.
During the wintertime these bears in the sanctuary hibernate just like they would in the wild. But guess what? They just woke up!
Facebook - Fortress Of The Bear
They are starting to, at least! Although we would imagine after hibernating all winter that these critters would be a little groggy after coming out of their snuggle tunnels. Heck, why don't you just go and see for yourself! The Fortress of the Bear is located at 4639 Sawmill Creek Road, Sitka, AK 99835.

For a closer look behind the story of Fortress of the Bear in Sitka, check out the great YouTube clip below. You won’t want to wait to visit!

For more wildlife in the Last Frontier, check out these seven crazy wildlife encounters in Alaska that were way too close for comfort. For more great articles and incredible video footage from Alaska, be sure to check us out online HERE.

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