We were at AK for opening in Dec. We did see Pooh and friends at Discovery Island Landing. But I don't think it was early. I believe we found them as we were leaving the park. It was a quickie visit to DinoLand and to visit Camp Minnie Mickey. So, it may have been around 10:30 or so. If you are going towards DinoLand, it will be on your right hand side, just before you cross the bridge into DinoLand. In fact, the river runs right behind the Character area.