Located on the northern Alaskan Peninsula, Katmai National Park and Preserve is a land of active geology, abundant wildlife, and cultural history. With its headquarters in King Salmon, the park protects the site of the world’s fifth-largest volcanic eruption, the 1912 Novarupta eruption, and the striking Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes. Today, Katmai is best known for its thriving brown bear population and the unforgettable bear viewing opportunities at Brooks Camp.

Recommended For

Katmai is perfect for:

  • Wildlife watchers—especially those eager to see brown bears in their natural habitat
  • Adventure travelers—interested in backcountry hiking and volcano exploration
  • Fishermen and anglers—who want world-class salmon and trout fishing
  • Geology and history enthusiasts—curious about the Novarupta eruption and ancient settlements

Why Visit Katmai?

  • Witness the largest brown bear gathering in the world along Brooks River
  • Explore the surreal Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes via guided tours
  • Fish in crystal-clear rivers teeming with trout, salmon, and arctic char
  • Learn about 9,000 years of Alaskan cultural heritage in a remote wilderness setting

A Brief History

  • Formed by the massive 1912 Novarupta eruption, the largest volcanic event of the 20th century
  • The eruption buried villages and created the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes
  • Designated as Mt. Katmai National Monument in 1918 and later expanded into a National Park and Preserve
  • Historic sites include Fure’s Cabin (1926) and the Brooks Camp Fisheries Building

Top Destination: Brooks Camp

  • Located at the mouth of the Bear River on Naknek Lake
  • Famous for:
    • Bear viewing from viewing platforms at Brooks Falls
    • World-class fishing
    • Ranger programs and trailheads to backcountry adventures
  • Campgrounds are enclosed by electric fencing for safety and nestled among poplar and birch trees

Wildlife and Fishing

  • The Brooks River is home to:
    • Brown bears that feed on seasonal salmon runs
    • Fishing for trout, salmon, and arctic char (mostly catch and release)
  • Visitors must practice extreme caution while fishing due to bear activity

Geological Wonders

  • The Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes formed after the 1912 eruption and is now covered in hardened colorful clay deposits
  • The Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes Tour is a 7-hour ranger-led experience that includes:
    • A bus ride with river crossings
    • A lunch stop in the valley
    • An optional 3.4-mile hike with a 1,000-foot elevation gain

Cultural Significance

  • Over 900 depressions mark the sites of ancient Native Alaskan homes near Brooks River
  • Ranger-led cultural walks visit reconstructed dwellings along a half-mile trail
  • Brooks River is a designated archaeological district on the National Register of Historic Places

Ranger Programs and Education

  • Ranger talks and guided hikes are offered from June to September
  • All visitors must attend a bear safety orientation upon arrival
  • Programs include illustrated presentations on local geology, ecology, and history

Remote Access and Virtual Experiences

  • The park is accessible only by air or boat, adding to its untouched charm
  • Watch live bear cams or join virtual ranger chats on the park’s YouTube channel

Hunting Regulations

  • Hunting is not allowed in the National Park
  • Hunting and trapping are allowed in the Preserve, especially for moose and brown bear

Planning Your Visit

  • Getting there: Arrive via chartered flights or boat from King Salmon
  • What to pack: Weather-appropriate layers, rain gear, binoculars, and bear spray
  • Reservations for Brooks Lodge and Campgrounds fill up fast—plan months in advance
  • Check the official park website for updated bear activity, tour availability, and access alerts

Address: 1000 Silver Street, King Salmon, AK 99613
Phone: 907-246-3305
Website: www.nps.gov/katm

Plan Your Trip