Discover Katmai National Park
In the remote wilderness of southwestern Alaska, Katmai National Park and Preserve offers one of America's most extraordinary encounters with the natural world.
Famous for its remarkable brown bears, abundant salmon, volcanic landscapes, and pristine waterways, Katmai is a place where nature takes center stage.
Brooks Falls: Where Bears Rule the River
Perhaps Katmai's most recognizable attraction, Brooks Falls is famous for the spectacular sight of brown bears catching salmon as they leap upstream.
During the summer salmon migration, particularly in July, bears gather along the Brooks River to feast on migrating fish. Visitors can observe these magnificent animals from designated viewing platforms near Brooks Camp.
For wildlife photographers, it's an unforgettable opportunity to capture one of nature's most dramatic feeding spectacles.
September is another excellent time for bear watching, when bears return to the river to prepare for winter.
The Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes
Katmai isn't just about bears. It's also home to one of the most remarkable volcanic landscapes on Earth.
In 1912, the eruption of Novarupta transformed the surrounding wilderness in what became the largest volcanic eruption of the twentieth century.
The resulting Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes was named for the countless steam vents that once rose from its ash-covered landscape.
Today, visitors can explore this extraordinary geological wonder through seasonal excursions from Brooks Camp.
Naknek Lake and Alaska's Wild Beauty
Stretching across a breathtaking landscape of mountains and forests, Naknek Lake offers opportunities for photography, fishing, kayaking, and quiet appreciation of Alaska's wilderness.
Brooks Camp, located along the lake's shore, serves as a starting point for many of Katmai's most memorable adventures.
Beyond its wildlife and scenery, Katmai also protects thousands of years of human history, adding another dimension to this remarkable destination.
Planning a Visit to Katmai?
Unlike many national parks, Katmai cannot be reached by ordinary road travel. Most visitors arrive by aircraft or boat, often traveling through King Salmon, Alaska.
Advance planning is essential, particularly for transportation, accommodations, and seasonal wildlife viewing.
Visit the National Park Service for current information and bear safety guidance.
Keep Your Katmai Memories Close
Whether it's a photograph of a brown bear, a travel journal from your Alaskan adventure, or a treasured keepsake, a GTK Link Anywhere QR Tile helps connect those physical reminders to your favorite online memories and stories.
Get To Know People & What They Know About Katmai
Every remarkable destination has people with experiences, stories, and knowledge worth discovering.
At GTK® (Get To Know People & What They Know), we celebrate individuality, expression, and connection by sharing what makes people and their experiences extraordinary.
Have you visited Katmai? Perhaps your adventure is a story worth sharing.
Discover more at GTK.us.