Areas For Alaska Brown Bear Viewing

By Roger Hughes


While some individuals want to view animals from a distance, others like to get up close. In the case of Alaska Brown Bear viewing Alaska, individuals can often do both. For, some of the most incredible and magical spots to view bears is in the state. Take for example, Brook Falls in Katmai National Park, the McNeil River, Lake Clark National Park or Redoubt Bay, all of which host a number of black and brown bears.

Whether flying in, or taking a boat, some of the best areas to view brown bears include Redoubt Bay, Lake Clark National Park, the McNeil River, Katmai National Park and Brook Falls. In most cases, the best viewing occurs in areas in which salmon and other fish are spawning. For, these areas are often going to have higher bear populations than others.

One area in which there is a rather large bear population in Summer is that of Chinitna Bay. For, the bears are often active when moving between different areas to find food. Whereas, shellfish, salmon and beach grasses also attract bears on a regular basis. Whether flying in for the night, or just a day trip, it should be noted that bear viewing is on foot with towed trailers and ATVs available in areas with longer distances between areas.

When it comes to Redoubt Bay, the best viewing often occurs from June through August from a covered boat with an expert guide. Whereas, Katmai and Brook Falls is best in mid-Summer. During this time, Brook Falls plays host to fisher bears whom love to snap fish atop running waterfalls. Whereas, Lake National Park is often better for viewing during late Summer months.

While it can often be hard to win a spot in the lottery, McNeil River State Game Sanctuary is an extremely popular place to view bears. In fact, it is so popular that the area is heavily controlled, with visitors selected by a lottery in order to protect the area. As such, individuals and families interested in visiting the area need to contact the location for more information.

If still having questions related to watching brown bears or where to stay, there are a number of professional tour guides and travel agencies which can help. In addition, as bear populations are scattered throughout the state, there's always a chance to spot a bear on different types of trips. Some of these include, flightseeing tours, day cruises and ATV tours along beaches and more rural areas.

If looking for guaranteed viewing, visitors can check out the Alaska Zoo or Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. For, each are home to brown and black bears. In addition, the zoo is also home to a number of polar bears. Whereas, the biology staff which are well educated on bears and associated behaviors can often provide insight and information on different types of bears.

When planning on taking this type of trip, travelers always have several options. One is to book an all inclusive cruise with one of the many cruise lines which now go to Alaska. Whereas, individuals can always fly in and visit different areas via tour bus, rent a car or with a private tour guide or service. In all cases, it is important to inquire and book reservations as early as possible in the process, especially when planning to visit during the months of June, July and August.




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