Explore the pristine wilderness of Katmai National Park in Alaska. Discover top attractions like Brooks Falls and Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, experience world-class fishing, bear viewing, hiking, and more. Learn about accommodations, accessibility, and essential travel tips to plan your adventure.
Katmai National Park Travel Guide
Katmai National Park and Preserve, located in southern Alaska, is a stunning and diverse region known for its remarkable volcanic landscape and as a haven for brown bears.
Top Attractions and Activities:
Brooks Falls: Famous for bear viewing as brown bears gather here to catch salmon leaping up the falls. Visit between June and July for the best experience.
Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes: A dramatic landscape formed by the eruption of Novarupta Volcano in 1912, showcasing ash and pumice deposits, and perfect for hiking and exploring.
Hiking and Backpacking: Explore the park’s diverse landscapes through various trails, offering opportunities to view wildlife and scenic vistas.
Fishing: Katmai is a paradise for anglers, offering world-class fishing experiences with abundant salmon, trout, and other fish species.
Wildlife Viewing: Besides bears, the park is home to moose, wolves, and a variety of bird species, making it a great location for wildlife enthusiasts.
Camping: Brooks Camp Campground offers a chance to experience the wilderness, with amenities like food storage lockers and fire rings.
Flightseeing Tours: Experience the park’s breathtaking landscapes from the air, with many operators offering aerial tours of the park's diverse terrains and features.
Best Areas to Stay:
Brooks Lodge: Offers comfortable accommodations and easy access to Brooks Falls, with options for bear viewing tours and fishing expeditions.
King Salmon: The closest town to the park, providing lodging options, restaurants, and is the entry point for most visitors to Katmai.
Wilderness Camping:
Outside of Brooks Camp, backcountry or wilderness camping is permitted in most of the park, with some restrictions to protect resources and park visitors. Wilderness campers are required to follow Leave No Trace principles and maintain a safe distance from wildlife, especially bears. Permits are not required for backcountry camping, but campers are encouraged to discuss their plans with park rangers and to check the regulations and guidelines available at the park visitor centers.
Brooks Camp Campground:
Location: Near Brooks River, a short walk from Brooks Falls.
Availability: June 1 – September 17 (approximate dates, may vary).
Facilities: Tent sites, food storage lockers, fire ring, and restrooms.
Reservations: Required and can be made online. Booking well in advance is recommended due to high demand.
Amenities: No electrical hookups or RV accommodations. It is primarily designed for tent camping.
Bear Activity: The campground is in a high bear activity area; therefore, following safety guidelines and food storage regulations is mandatory.
Accessibility:
Katmai is remote and primarily accessible by plane or boat. Regular flights are available from Anchorage to King Salmon, followed by a bus or floatplane to reach specific locations within the park.
Park Services:
The park provides essential services like ranger stations, visitor centers, and campgrounds, but visitors should come prepared as amenities are limited.
Safety and Wildlife:
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife, especially bears, and adhere to park guidelines and recommendations. Bear-resistant food containers are mandatory in the park.
Packing and Clothing Guide:
Weather can be unpredictable; pack layered clothing, waterproof gear, sturdy hiking boots, and essential camping supplies if you plan to camp. A good camera and binoculars are recommended for wildlife viewing.
Important Notes:
Permits and reservations are required for camping and lodging.
The park has designated areas for bear viewing; adhere to guidelines for a safe experience.
Remember to leave no trace and respect the park’s natural and cultural resources.
