Katmai National Park 's awe-inspiring natural powers confront us most visibly in its brown bears. In summer, North America's largest land predators gather along streams to feast on salmon runs, building weight from this wealth of protein and fat, preparing for the long winter ahead.

The Brooks River in the heart of Katmai is, without a doubt, the most accessible location in the world for observing these magnificent animals. As many as fifty bears can be viewed fishing along the mile and a half long Brooks River during the peak of the salmon season. Many visitors see bears within minutes of arrival. All visitors are instructed by the National Park Service on how to conduct themselves in "Bear Country". Two features distinguish Katmai as the best of all bear access areas in Alaska. First, we have the opportunity to see the bears in a variety of habitats. From a beautiful waterfall where they forage for jumping salmon, to a sandy lake front beach and grass lined river bank. Second, long summer days allow time in the field from dawn to dusk, so you can see the bears at your own pace and also take advantage of Katmai's other interesting activities such as salmon fishing or an optional visit to the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes.

Cabin accommodations at the Brooks Lodge offer bear watching literally outside your cabin door. There is also a pleasant lodge and dining room for relaxing after an exciting day in the field. The lodge is strategically located on the shore of Naknek Lake and the inflow of the Brooks River.

During July, a massive sockeye salmon run in the Brooks River attracts bears from the surrounding countryside. They come to feed on fish as they return to spawn after having spent three years in the North Pacific. This predictable eruption of protein wealth allows the bears to make a tremendous increase in their body weight in preparation for winter. During this time the bears are intent on fishing, making for wonderful wildlife viewing opportunities.

BEAR VIEWING TOURS & GENERAL INFORMATION Katmai Day Tour Land of Katmai Tour Katmai Explorer Tour FAQ's About Brooks Lodge Traveling in Bear Country