Think about standing only a few ft away from an enormous brown Grizzly bear, its highly effective kind 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 fantastic thing about nature.
From the beautiful landscapes of Lake Clark Nationwide Park to probably the greatest 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 provide help to uncover the most effective spots for an in depth encounter with these majestic creatures.
Right here is an outline:
You can even take heed to our podcast about bear watching:
Why Bear Viewing in Alaska is a Should-Do
Experiencing bear viewing in Alaska is an journey that you just can not 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 may usually 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 pictures and unforgettable moments.
Should you’re in Homer, don’t neglect to discover the close by creeks the place bears are ceaselessly noticed.
Simply be ready for the unpredictable climate—layers are a should! I needed to study this the ‘chilly’ manner. 😉
Whereas the joy may be overwhelming, sustaining a secure distance is essential for each your security and the bears’.
This expertise not solely highlights Alaska’s beautiful landscapes but additionally deepens your appreciation for wildlife. So seize your digicam and embrace the wild!
The Finest Places for Bear Viewing in Alaska
Should 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 massive 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 experience from Anchorage to the beautiful 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 powerful 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 may anticipate to see from the airplane already – merely beautiful!
There are a number of places to watch bears:
Crescent Lake
Nestled within the coronary heart of the Chigmit Mountains, Crescent Lake is a paradise to identify bears and in addition for sport fishers.
That is the place I went (Redoubt Bay Lodge) and also you’ll discover a extra detailed description beneath.
Through the salmon run, each brown and black bears go to the shorelines in the hunt for ample fish.
Crescent Lake lacks developed trails or roads. Most guests navigate the lake utilizing motorboats or kayaks supplied by their guides or lodges. Whereas strolling round Crescent Lake is feasible, it’s not advisable resulting from thick vegetation that makes shore strolling difficult and considerably dangerous; thus, most bear viewing happens from boats.
Brown bears usually frequent the shoreline throughout salmon runs, giving photographers in boats loads of possibilities to seize beautiful pictures.
Silver Salmon Creek
Positioned halfway alongside the park’s Prepare dinner Inlet coast, Silver Salmon Creek presents improbable sport fishing alongside top-notch brown bear viewing. Brown bears may 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 would possibly end up strolling two miles or extra forwards and backwards throughout salt marshes or tidal flats and creeks whereas trying to find bears or fish.
Shelter Creek and Tuxedni Bay
These two areas alongside the Prepare dinner Inlet coast of the park supply wealthy habitats for bears however are more difficult to entry and thus see fewer guests.
Bears which are much less accustomed to human presence usually tend to shrink back from shut encounters. Should you determine to go to these spots, proceed with excessive warning.
Chinitna Bay
Located on the southern finish of the park’s Prepare 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 completed on foot, though some native lodges would possibly present automobile 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 may end up strolling two miles or extra forwards and backwards between websites on the salt marsh or tidal flats in the hunt for bears.
Redoubt Bay Lodge – Lake Clark Nationwide Park
I took the floatplane with Rust’s to the Redoubt Bay Lodge, the place you may expertise the joys of observing Alaska’s black and brown bears of their pure atmosphere.
The flight to get there may be 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 primarily based there.
The flight is wonderful, because the view onto the lakes and mountains are merely beautiful.
Your expert pilot can also be a information and can give you numerous into through the flight. Be ready for some “dry” jokes as nicely.
You’ll then contact down on the Redoubt Mountain Lodge, nestled by the beautiful 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 forms 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 an enthralling handcrafted lodge nestled inside an enormous 171,000-acre crucial habitat space.
It’s conveniently located 70 miles southwest of Anchorage, proper on the beautiful entrance of Lake Clark Nationwide Park and Protect.
This space is famend for internet hosting one of many highest concentrations of bears which are 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 Huge 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 a simple day journey from Anchorage to the Redoubt Bay Important Habitat Space.
You’ll be able to take pleasure in an interesting 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 had been there, so our journey needed to finish somewhat early, but it surely 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 principle lodge is included in your package deal. We had been served baked salmon and it was probably the greatest 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 picture doesn’t do it justice. It was so scrumptious!
Katmai Nationwide Park
If you end up in Anchorage, take into account day journeys (and finest keep for 2-3 nights) to locations like Homer, identified for its beautiful landscapes and wealthy wildlife.
An excellent location for bear viewing is Katmai Nationwide Park, the place you may marvel on the iconic brown bears fishing for salmon at Brooks Falls. It’s a panoramic sight that by no means will get outdated.
The federally-protected Katmai Nationwide Park and Protect is famend for its distinctive alternatives to watch Alaska’s brown bears. A few of these beautiful 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 memorable expertise of watching bears of their pure habitat.
Throughout July, when the salmon are spawning, you would possibly 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 readily available to offer a complete briefing upon your arrival and can be found all through the park to reply any questions you might have.
When customer numbers peak, a waitlist for the Decrease River bear viewing platform could also be enforce to take care of a top quality viewing expertise. Which means that generally the areas can get a bit crowded, and the ranger would possibly ask you to shift to a different platform. Nonetheless, there may be ample area in Katmai total to take pleasure in observing the bears.
Though Brooks Falls is essentially the most famend location on this park for bear watching, it’s actually not the only real possibility; different locations similar to Hallo Bay, Geographic Harbor, and Moraine Creek present improbable viewing alternatives as nicely. These areas are merely extra secluded. You would possibly must trek a number of miles, and also you in all probability received’t encounter as many bears in a single space in comparison with Brooks. The upside? You’ll be distant from the throngs of individuals and have the possibility to watch bears of their pure habitat.
Every location presents distinctive viewing experiences, from tranquil creek settings to rugged wilderness. Whereas bear viewing may 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 advocate 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 costume 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 occasions of the yr.
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 most effective alternatives for recognizing brown bears round Katmai Nationwide Park and Lake Clark.
Should you’re planning a day tour from Anchorage, take into account visiting through the salmon run in July and August when bears collect in droves alongside the creeks.
Understand that climate situations may be unpredictable, so have a versatile itinerary.
Should you miss the height months, go to in Might or September for fewer crowds and an opportunity to see bears throughout their lively feeding occasions.
Right here is an outline:
- 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 choosing 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 advocate trying out the guided excursions that take you to well-known spots like Brooks Falls, the place brown bears collect through the salmon run. Otherwise you hop on one of many pontoon boats, which will get you very shut.
Convey an excellent digicam 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 it is best to be capable to take higher pictures.
Costume in layers, as Alaska’s climate may be unpredictable, and don’t neglect waterproof gear. Throughout my go to, I encountered surprising rain and it was a lot colder than I assumed. But it surely didn’t dampen my spirits; the wildlife continued to amaze regardless of the drizzle.
Subsequent time I’ll hear when somebody recommends me to carry alongside a hat and gloves.
get to the bears
From numerous places and lodging, you could have the chance to journey by boat.
You’ll be able to 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 would possibly want a helicopter that may choose a sandy shore or expansive grassy fields. Helicopters supply the additional advantage of panoramic 180-degree views by means of their massive 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 very important.
There are a number of necessary factors to recollect, whatever the circumstances.
At first, it is best 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.
At all times maintain a respectful distance from these magnificent brown (Grizzly) bears; keep a minimum of 100 yards to make sure each your security and theirs.
It’s necessary to remain calm if you happen to encounter a bear—by no means run, as this will provoke curiosity or aggression. As an alternative, 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 habits and guarantee secure viewing practices.
Areas like Katmai Nationwide Park and Lake Clark are famend for his or her wildlife encounters, but it surely’s smart to learn about seasonal patterns and bear exercise.
At all times carry bear spray simply in case—this small precaution could make a big distinction throughout surprising encounters. If you do a guided tour, you received’t want the spray, as your information must be ready.
Various Actions to Improve Your Alaska Journey
Should you’re wanting to dive deeper into the Alaskan wilderness past bear viewing, there are many different actions that can improve your journey.
Think about a day journey to Seward or Homer, the place you may discover beautiful coastal vistas or seize contemporary seafood from native eateries.
For a singular expertise, head to Katmai Nationwide Park, the place wildlife pictures fanatics will discover countless alternatives right here, so ensure your digicam is prepared!
Should you’re on the lookout for one thing extra adrenaline-pumping, kayaking round one among Alaska’s serene lakes presents each tranquility and the possibility 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 beautiful and recommending expertise.
Every of those experiences provides one other layer to your Alaskan journey, guaranteeing that your journey is as memorable as it’s thrilling.
Don’t miss out on these alternate options that completely complement your bear viewing journey!
Individuals additionally ask
The place is the most effective place to see the bears in Alaska?
Should you’re seeking to see bears in Alaska, Katmai Nationwide Park is a high contender. The park is famend for its unimaginable brown bear inhabitants, particularly through the salmon runs in July and September.
Then there may be Lake Clark with its completely different spots. I had the possibility to go to this beautiful wilderness on the Redoubt Mountain Lodge, and it didn’t disappoint.
One among my favourite experiences was watching the bears from the pontoon boat, the place they received their salmon, additionally for his or her cubs.
For a extra distant expertise, take into account heading to Kodiak Island. The Kodiak brown bears listed below are bigger and you’ll usually discover them of their pure habitat, foraging for meals.
I like to recommend reserving a guided tour, because the guides know the most effective spots and might present precious insights into bear habits.
What’s the finest month to see bears in Alaska?
Should you’re wanting to catch a glimpse of bears in Alaska, the most effective months to plan your journey are sometimes 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 ample.
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 turn into extra lively, with many moms and cubs seen alongside the coast and riverbanks. It is a improbable time to see these cute 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 may 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 possible see them gathering in bigger numbers, additionally on the lakes.
Irrespective of while you go, the expertise of observing these majestic creatures of their pure habitat is bound to be a spotlight of your Alaskan journey!
Nonetheless, needless to say the climate may be unpredictable, so it’s smart to pack accordingly.
How possible is it to see a bear in Alaska?
Seeing a bear in Alaska is sort of possible, particularly in sure areas and through particular seasons.
I anticipated to see perhaps 1-2 bears hopefully 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’d have gone out for extra bear viewing within the afternoon, to see much more.
Alaska is residence to 3 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 yr, and your actions. In nationwide parks like Denali and Katmai, bear sightings are frequent, significantly through the summer time months when bears are foraging for meals.
Keep alert in case you are mountaineering and abruptly see a grizzly bear simply off the path, foraging for berries within the brush. The hot button is to remain alert and maintain your distance; bears aren’t typically aggressive, however may be unpredictable if caught off guard.
Whereas driving alongside the Seward Freeway or in Kodiak, you may also catch glimpses of bears close to the roadside or alongside riverbanks.
It’s important to respect their area and observe from a secure distance to keep away from any harmful encounters.
Should you’re planning to go bear-watching, take into account guided excursions, which frequently enhance the possibilities of sightings and supply security ideas. Bear in mind, whereas the probability of seeing a bear is excessive, it’s essential to prioritize security and comply with native laws relating to wildlife encounters.
see bears in Alaska on a finances?
Seeing bears in Alaska is usually a thrilling expertise with out breaking the financial institution. One of the vital budget-friendly methods is to go to nationwide parks like Katmai or Denali, the place you may usually spot bears of their pure habitat.
Whereas guided excursions may be expensive, take into account mountaineering the paths in these parks—many have accessible paths the place bears are identified to roam. Don’t neglect your bear spray! Tenting is one other economical possibility. 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. Convey your personal meals and kit to chop down on bills.
Simply take into accout the particular “bear guidelines” while you go tenting. No meals within the tent!
Be sure that to securely retailer all meals, food-related gadgets, cooking utensils, clothes, and another aromatic private belongings in your automotive, RV, or cabin. Leaving gadgets outdoors can draw bears and different wildlife.
So lock it up within the automotive or grasp it excessive on a rope at a tree, finest a bit away out of your tent. Should you’re on the lookout for a extra distinctive expertise, take a look at native bear-viewing platforms or lodges that provide day passes. These may be extra reasonably priced than full-package excursions.
Moreover, touring through the shoulder season (late spring or early fall) can yield decrease costs on lodging and actions. I’m actually joyful that I’ve been to Alaska in autumn, the place the panorama become these wonderful fall colours.
