Bears in Katmai National Park

Katmai National Park is located in southern Alaska and is home to one of the largest concentrations of brown bears in the world. These bears are a major draw for visitors to the park, as they offer a rare opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Here are some things to know about bears in Katmai National Park:

1. Brown Bears are the Main Attraction: The park is home to a large population of brown bears, which are also known as grizzly bears. These bears can weigh up to 1,200 pounds and stand up to 9 feet tall when on their hind legs. They are a major draw for visitors to the park, and the opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
2. The Best Time to See Bears is During Salmon Runs: One of the best times to see bears in Katmai National Park is during the annual salmon runs, which occur in July and September. During this time, the bears congregate along the streams and rivers in the park to feed on the fish. Visitors can observe the bears as they fish for salmon and engage in other behaviors, such as playing and socializing.
3. The Bears are Wild Animals: While the bears in Katmai National Park are used to the presence of humans, they are still wild animals and should be treated with caution and respect. Visitors should never approach a bear, as this can be dangerous for both the bear and the person. Instead, visitors should observe the bears from a safe distance, ideally from a viewing platform or from the safety of a guided tour.
4. The Park Offers Guided Tours: For visitors who want to observe the bears up close, the park offers guided tours with experienced rangers and naturalists. These tours take visitors to the best viewing areas and provide information about the bears’ behavior and habitat. They also ensure that visitors remain safe and do not disturb the bears.
5. The Bears are Active Throughout the Day: Unlike many other animals, bears in Katmai National Park are active throughout the day, so visitors have the opportunity to observe them at any time. However, visitors should be aware that the bears may be less active during the hottest part of the day, and that they may take breaks from feeding and playing to rest or sleep.
6. The Park Has Strict Rules Regarding Bear Viewing: To ensure the safety of both visitors and bears, the park has strict rules regarding bear viewing. Visitors are required to stay a minimum of 50 yards away from bears at all times, and 100 yards away from any bears that are fishing. Visitors are also prohibited from feeding the bears or leaving food or garbage in areas where bears may be present.
7. Other Wildlife is Also Present in the Park: While bears are the main attraction in Katmai National Park, there are many other species of wildlife present as well. Visitors may see moose, wolves, foxes, and a variety of birds, including eagles and puffins. The park also has a diverse range of plant life, including forests, tundra, and wetlands.
8. The Park Offers Many Outdoor Activities: In addition to bear viewing, Katmai National Park offers many other outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. These include hiking, fishing, kayaking, and camping. Visitors can also take a guided boat tour to explore the park’s coastline and observe whales and other marine life.

Overall, bears are a major attraction in Katmai National Park, offering visitors a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. While observing bears can be a thrilling experience, visitors should always remember to respect the bears and follow the park’s rules to ensure their own safety and the safety of the bears.