Think about standing only a few toes away from an enormous brown Grizzly bear, its highly effective type transferring gracefully by means of the luxurious Alaskan wilderness.
Bear viewing in Alaska is not only a visit; it’s an exhilarating journey that immerses you within the uncooked great thing about nature.
From the gorgeous landscapes of Lake Clark Nationwide Park to among the finest salmon I’ve ever eaten, this distinctive wildlife tour makes an unforgettable expertise.
Whether or not you’re planning a day journey from Anchorage or an extended tour, this information will aid you uncover the perfect spots for an in depth encounter with these majestic creatures.
Right here is an summary:
Why Bear Viewing in Alaska is a Should-Do
Experiencing bear viewing in Alaska is an journey that you just can’t miss. Whether or not you’re embarking on a tour from Anchorage or heading to Katmai Nationwide Park, the joys of seeing brown bears of their pure habitat is unmatched.
I went to Lake Clark, the place you possibly can typically see bears fishing for salmon in the summertime months from late July until mid September. Excursions normally final a day, providing ample alternatives for wildlife images and unforgettable moments.
When you’re in Homer, don’t overlook to discover the close by creeks the place bears are steadily noticed.
Simply be ready for the unpredictable climate—layers are a should! I needed to study this the ‘chilly’ method. 😉
Whereas the joy could be overwhelming, sustaining a secure distance is essential for each your security and the bears’.
This expertise not solely highlights Alaska’s gorgeous landscapes but additionally deepens your appreciation for wildlife. So seize your digital camera and embrace the wild!
The Greatest Areas for Bear Viewing in Alaska
When you’re dreaming of an unforgettable encounter with bears, Alaska is the place to be.
Lake Clark Nationwide Park and Protect
Lake Clark Nationwide Park and Protect presents distinctive alternatives for bear watching alongside its shoreline, the place giant teams of brown bears collect to feed.
At Lake Clark Nationwide Park, guided excursions carry you up shut to those magnificent animals whereas prioritizing your security.
The journey itself is a spotlight. A floatplane trip from Anchorage to the gorgeous Lake Clark Nationwide Park and Protect takes about one hour and ten minutes.
Nestled on the headwaters of Bristol Bay, Lake Clark Nationwide Park and Protect encapsulates the genuine spirit of Alaska’s untamed wilderness. Spanning a formidable 4 million acres, this park boasts towering volcanoes, rugged mountain ranges, breathtaking glaciers, wild rivers, cascading waterfalls, and a vibrant array of wildlife. That is what you possibly can count on to see from the airplane already – merely gorgeous!
There are a number of places to look at bears:
Crescent Lake
Nestled within the coronary heart of the Chigmit Mountains, Crescent Lake is a paradise to identify bears and likewise for sport fishers.
That is the place I went (Redoubt Bay Lodge) and also you’ll discover a extra detailed description under.
In the course of the salmon run, each brown and black bears go to the shorelines looking for considerable fish.
Crescent Lake lacks developed trails or roads. Most guests navigate the lake utilizing motorboats or kayaks offered by their guides or lodges. Whereas strolling round Crescent Lake is feasible, it’s not advisable because of thick vegetation that makes shore strolling tough and considerably dangerous; thus, most bear viewing happens from boats.
Brown bears typically frequent the shoreline throughout salmon runs, giving photographers in boats loads of possibilities to seize gorgeous photographs.
Silver Salmon Creek
Situated halfway alongside the park’s Cook dinner Inlet coast, Silver Salmon Creek presents improbable sport fishing alongside top-notch brown bear viewing. Brown bears could be noticed grazing in sedge meadows from late spring to mid-summer, fishing within the creek throughout salmon runs in late summer time, or digging for clams on the seaside all year long. Moose, wolves, foxes, ermines, and marine mammals have additionally been seen at Silver Salmon.
Lodges within the space transport visitors utilizing trailers pulled by ATVs. Different guests should stroll between websites on foot. Be ready to traverse sandy terrain for a number of hundred yards from the seaside to achieve the closest sedge meadow or fishing space. You may end up strolling two miles or extra backwards and forwards throughout salt marshes or tidal flats and creeks whereas looking for bears or fish.
Shelter Creek and Tuxedni Bay
These two areas alongside the Cook dinner Inlet coast of the park provide wealthy habitats for bears however are more difficult to entry and thus see fewer guests.
Bears which might be much less accustomed to human presence usually tend to draw back from shut encounters. When you determine to go to these spots, proceed with excessive warning.
Chinitna Bay
Located on the southern finish of the park’s Cook dinner Inlet shoreline, Chinitna Bay is famend for its distinctive bear viewing. Guests might spot as many as twenty coastal brown bears from a single vantage level.
Touring between bear viewing spots in Chinitna Bay is often carried out on foot, though some native lodges may present car transport alongside the seaside for his or her visitors. Be able to trek by means of sandy terrain for a number of hundred yards from the seaside the place your airplane lands to achieve the closest bear viewing space. You can end up strolling two miles or extra backwards and forwards between websites on the salt marsh or tidal flats looking for bears.
Redoubt Bay Lodge – Lake Clark Nationwide Park
I took the floatplane with Rust’s to the Redoubt Bay Lodge, the place you possibly can expertise the joys of observing Alaska’s black and brown bears of their pure atmosphere.
The flight to get there’s already a spotlight in itself. It takes round one hour within the floatplane from Anchorage to the lake.
Enjoyable Reality: Anchorage is the capitol of floatplanes, as there are 500 based mostly there.
The flight is wonderful, because the view onto the lakes and mountains are merely gorgeous.
Your expert pilot can also be a information and can offer you numerous into in the course of the flight. Be ready for some “dry” jokes as effectively.
You’ll then contact down on the Redoubt Mountain Lodge, nestled by the gorgeous blue waters of Crescent Lake, the place you’ll spend your day immersed in nature.
When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a educated bear viewing information who will take you on a coated pontoon boat to prime lakeside spots the place bears collect to feast on the spawning wild Alaska salmon.
There are three sorts of salmon they go for:
- contemporary caught salmon, which is the toughest to catch in a lake
- “zombie” salmon, which is simply in need of dying and which swims slower and is subsequently simpler to catch
- “floaters”, that are those who already died and who float on the floor. Clearly it’s the only to catch, but additionally not of their highest quality anymore. So very often you see that the bears eat solely components of the floaters, except they’re nonetheless very hungry they usually want extra meals for his or her winter break
Redoubt Bay Lodge is a captivating handcrafted lodge nestled inside an unlimited 171,000-acre essential habitat space.
It’s conveniently located 70 miles southwest of Anchorage, proper on the gorgeous entrance of Lake Clark Nationwide Park and Protect.
This space is famend for internet hosting one of many highest concentrations of bears which might be simply viewable in all of Alaska.
As your bear watching tour kicks off, you’ll be aboard a coated pontoon boat, guided by educated naturalists, navigating by means of the picturesque chain of Massive River Lakes, the place sockeye and Coho salmon thrive and appeal to the native bear inhabitants.
This prime bear viewing spot additionally attracts in quite a few fishermen alongside the bears.
The journey to view these magnificent creatures is an easy day journey from Anchorage to the Redoubt Bay Crucial Habitat Space.
You may get pleasure from an attractive half-day expertise with departures out there within the morning or afternoon, lasting round 6 1/2 hours (with choices for prolonged and in a single day packages).
The climate modified whereas we have been there, so our journey needed to finish a bit early, however it was nonetheless an important expertise. In case you have the chance to remain in a single day, do it. Staying in such a distant place is exclusive and a really particular expertise.
A scrumptious sizzling lunch served in the primary lodge is included in your bundle. We have been served baked salmon and it was among the finest salmons I’ve ever had. The colour itself is one thing you don’t usually get, however then it was served with a honey and candy chili sauce. The photograph doesn’t do it justice. It was so scrumptious!
Katmai Nationwide Park
If you end up in Anchorage, think about day journeys (and finest keep for 2-3 nights) to locations like Homer, recognized for its gorgeous landscapes and wealthy wildlife.
A terrific location for bear viewing is Katmai Nationwide Park, the place you possibly can marvel on the iconic brown bears fishing for salmon at Brooks Falls. It’s a wide ranging sight that by no means will get outdated.
The federally-protected Katmai Nationwide Park and Protect is famend for its distinctive alternatives to look at Alaska’s brown bears. A few of these gorgeous wilderness spots can solely be reached by air, showcasing Alaska in its most unspoiled state.
This bear viewing tour at Katmai takes you to Brooks Falls, the place three viewing platforms linked by raised boardwalks present an up-close, unobstructed, and noteworthy expertise of watching bears of their pure habitat.
Throughout July, when the salmon are spawning, you may spot as many as fifty bears alongside the 1.5-mile stretch of Brooks River without delay.
Though the bear viewing at Brooks Falls is self-guided, park rangers are available to provide a complete briefing upon your arrival and can be found all through the park to reply any questions you will have.
When customer numbers peak, a waitlist for the Decrease River bear viewing platform could also be enforce to take care of a high quality viewing expertise. Which means that generally the areas can get a bit crowded, and the ranger may ask you to shift to a different platform. Nevertheless, there’s ample house in Katmai total to get pleasure from observing the bears.
Though Brooks Falls is probably the most famend location on this park for bear watching, it’s actually not the only choice; different locations reminiscent of Hallo Bay, Geographic Harbor, and Moraine Creek present improbable viewing alternatives as effectively. These areas are merely extra secluded. You may have to trek a number of miles, and also you most likely received’t encounter as many bears in a single space in comparison with Brooks. The upside? You’ll be far-off from the throngs of individuals and have the prospect to look at bears of their pure habitat.
Every location presents distinctive viewing experiences, from tranquil creek settings to rugged wilderness. Whereas bear viewing could be crowded throughout peak season, the joys of seeing these magnificent animals of their pure habitat makes all of it worthwhile.
I went in mid September and would suggest this season. There have been much less individuals and to see Alaska in autumn was superior, with all the coloured leafs. And as you need to gown in a number of layers anyway, I didn’t thoughts the climate that a lot. There have been additionally much less mosquitoes than in different instances of the 12 months.
When to Plan Your Journey for Optimum Bear Sightings
Timing your journey for bear viewing in Alaska could make all of the distinction in experiencing these majestic creatures up shut.
The height season runs from late Might to early September, with the perfect alternatives for recognizing brown bears round Katmai Nationwide Park and Lake Clark.
When you’re planning a day tour from Anchorage, think about visiting in the course of the salmon run in July and August when bears collect in droves alongside the creeks.
Remember the fact that climate situations could be unpredictable, so have a versatile itinerary.
When you miss the height months, go to in Might or September for fewer crowds and an opportunity to see bears throughout their energetic feeding instances.
Right here is an summary:
- Might: Chinitna Bay
- June: Chinitna Bay, Redoubt
- July: Chinitna Bay, Redoubt, Katmai, Lake Clark (finish of July)
- August: Chinitna Bay, Redoubt, Lake Clark
- until mid September: Chinitna Bay, Redoubt, Lake Clark
Ideas for an Unforgettable Bear Viewing Expertise
For an unforgettable bear viewing expertise in Alaska, planning is essential.
Start your journey by deciding on the appropriate tour to fit your pursuits—whether or not it’s an exhilarating day journey from Anchorage or a multi-day tour in Katmai Nationwide Park. I extremely suggest testing the guided excursions that take you to well-known spots like Brooks Falls, the place brown bears collect in the course of the salmon run. Otherwise you hop on one of many pontoon boats, which will get you very shut.
Carry an excellent digital camera with a zoom lens; the very last thing you need is to overlook capturing these majestic moments up shut!
I simply had my smartphone with me, so you need to be capable to take higher photographs.
Costume in layers, as Alaska’s climate could be unpredictable, and don’t overlook waterproof gear. Throughout my go to, I encountered surprising rain and it was a lot colder than I assumed. However it didn’t dampen my spirits; the wildlife continued to amaze regardless of the drizzle.
Subsequent time I’ll pay attention when somebody recommends me to carry alongside a hat and gloves.
The right way to get to the bears
From varied places and lodging, you may have the chance to journey by boat.
You may go for a floatplane from Anchorage or Homer that can contact down on the water. That alone is a spotlight already.
Alternatively, there are wheeled planes that may land proper on the seaside, otherwise you may favor a helicopter that may choose a sandy shore or expansive grassy fields. Helicopters provide the additional benefit of panoramic 180-degree views by means of their giant entrance home windows, the aptitude to fly at decrease altitudes, and usually present a extra snug journey.
Security Precautions Whereas Bear Viewing in Alaska
When embarking in your bear viewing journey in Alaska, understanding security precautions is totally important.
There are a number of essential factors to recollect, whatever the circumstances.
At the start, you need to by no means get shut to those creatures or attempt to make your self noticeable in any method, even when they seem pleasant or calm. Keep away from leaving meals unattended or attempting to feed them.
All the time maintain a respectful distance from these magnificent brown (Grizzly) bears; preserve not less than 100 yards to make sure each your security and theirs.
It’s essential to remain calm in case you encounter a bear—by no means run, as this may occasionally provoke curiosity or aggression. As a substitute, again away slowly whereas talking in soothing tones.
Becoming a member of guided excursions can improve your expertise, as educated guides will train you about bear conduct and guarantee secure viewing practices.
Areas like Katmai Nationwide Park and Lake Clark are famend for his or her wildlife encounters, however it’s clever to learn about seasonal patterns and bear exercise.
All the time carry bear spray simply in case—this small precaution could make a big distinction throughout surprising encounters. While you do a guided tour, you received’t want the spray, as your information ought to be ready.
Various Actions to Improve Your Alaska Journey
When you’re wanting to dive deeper into the Alaskan wilderness past bear viewing, there are many different actions that can improve your journey.
Take into account a day journey to Seward or Homer, the place you possibly can discover gorgeous coastal vistas or seize contemporary seafood from native eateries.
For a singular expertise, head to Katmai Nationwide Park, the place wildlife images fanatics will discover limitless alternatives right here, so make certain your digital camera is prepared!
When you’re in search of one thing extra adrenaline-pumping, kayaking round one in every of Alaska’s serene lakes presents each tranquility and the prospect to identify extra wildlife, together with seals and sea otters. I did a day cruise to the Aialik Glacier within the Kenai Fjords, which was one other gorgeous and recommending expertise.
Every of those experiences provides one other layer to your Alaskan journey, making certain that your journey is as memorable as it’s thrilling.
Don’t miss out on these options that completely complement your bear viewing journey!
Individuals additionally ask
The place is the perfect place to see the bears in Alaska?
When you’re seeking to see bears in Alaska, Katmai Nationwide Park is a prime contender. The park is famend for its unimaginable brown bear inhabitants, particularly in the course of the salmon runs in July and September.
Then there’s Lake Clark with its completely different spots. I had the prospect to go to this gorgeous wilderness on the Redoubt Mountain Lodge, and it didn’t disappoint.
One in every of my favourite experiences was watching the bears from the pontoon boat, the place they bought their salmon, additionally for his or her cubs.
For a extra distant expertise, think about heading to Kodiak Island. The Kodiak brown bears listed below are bigger and you may typically discover them of their pure habitat, foraging for meals.
I like to recommend reserving a guided tour, because the guides know the perfect spots and might present useful insights into bear conduct.
What’s the finest month to see bears in Alaska?
When you’re wanting to catch a glimpse of bears in Alaska, the perfect months to plan your journey are usually Might by means of September.
Throughout this era, bears emerge from hibernation, and their exercise peaks, particularly in late spring and summer time when meals sources are considerable.
In Might, brown bears are sometimes noticed foraging for early greens and rising salmon, making it a good time for wildlife viewing.
As you progress into June, the bears change into extra energetic, with many moms and cubs seen alongside the coast and riverbanks. It is a improbable time to see these lovely cubs studying to navigate their atmosphere.
July is peak season for salmon runs, significantly in areas like Katmai Nationwide Park and Brooks Falls. Right here, you possibly can witness bears fishing for salmon—a really unforgettable sight.
By August, the bears proceed to feed closely in preparation for hibernation, and also you’ll seemingly see them gathering in bigger numbers, additionally on the lakes.
Irrespective of once you go, the expertise of observing these majestic creatures of their pure habitat is certain to be a spotlight of your Alaskan journey!
Nevertheless, needless to say the climate could be unpredictable, so it’s clever to pack accordingly.
How seemingly is it to see a bear in Alaska?
Seeing a bear in Alaska is kind of seemingly, particularly in sure areas and through particular seasons.
I anticipated to see perhaps 1-2 bears expectantly much more. Ultimately we noticed 9 bears, together with a number of cubs, and that in simply 1 ½ hours. If the climate wouldn’t have modified, we might have gone out for extra bear viewing within the afternoon, to see much more.
Alaska is dwelling to a few species of bears: black bears, brown bears (together with grizzly bears), and polar bears. The possibilities of an encounter rely largely on the situation, time of 12 months, and your actions. In nationwide parks like Denali and Katmai, bear sightings are frequent, significantly in the course of the summer time months when bears are foraging for meals.
Keep alert if you’re mountaineering and abruptly see a grizzly bear simply off the path, foraging for berries within the brush. The secret’s to remain alert and maintain your distance; bears should not typically aggressive, however could be unpredictable if caught off guard.
Whereas driving alongside the Seward Freeway or in Kodiak, you may additionally catch glimpses of bears close to the roadside or alongside riverbanks.
It’s important to respect their house and observe from a secure distance to keep away from any harmful encounters.
When you’re planning to go bear-watching, think about guided excursions, which frequently enhance the possibilities of sightings and supply security suggestions. Keep in mind, whereas the chance of seeing a bear is excessive, it’s essential to prioritize security and observe native laws concerning wildlife encounters.
The right way to see bears in Alaska on a funds?
Seeing bears in Alaska is usually a thrilling expertise with out breaking the financial institution. Probably the most budget-friendly methods is to go to nationwide parks like Katmai or Denali, the place you possibly can typically spot bears of their pure habitat.
Whereas guided excursions could be expensive, think about mountaineering the paths in these parks—many have accessible paths the place bears are recognized to roam. Don’t overlook your bear spray! Tenting is one other economical choice. By staying at campgrounds inside or close to the parks, you not solely save on lodging prices but additionally enhance your possibilities of bear sightings. Carry your individual meals and equipment to chop down on bills.
Simply bear in mind the particular “bear guidelines” once you go tenting. No meals within the tent!
Make sure that to securely retailer all meals, food-related objects, cooking utensils, clothes, and every other aromatic private belongings in your automobile, RV, or cabin. Leaving objects exterior can draw bears and different wildlife.
So lock it up within the automobile or hold it excessive on a rope at a tree, finest a bit away out of your tent. When you’re in search of a extra distinctive expertise, take a look at native bear-viewing platforms or lodges that provide day passes. These could be extra reasonably priced than full-package excursions.
Moreover, touring in the course of the shoulder season (late spring or early fall) can yield decrease costs on lodging and actions. I’m actually comfortable that I’ve been to Alaska in autumn, the place the panorama become these wonderful fall colours.
