The Best Alaska Brown Bear Viewing Areas

By Roger Hughes


In some cases, it can be fun to view animals close up, in others, far away. When it comes to Alaska brown bear viewing, individuals can have it either way. For, brown bears are an active part of the wildlife as well as available for viewing at the Alaska Zoo or Alaska Conservation Center.

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.

Bear populations are most likely the highest in the Summer months near Chinitna Bay. For, the bears often move between different areas of the bay to find food. In addition, beach grasses, shellfish and salmon are all attractive to all types of bears. As such, whether flying in, or just taking a trip, this area might be the best place to view bears, especially when having limited time for viewing.

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.

When looking for guaranteed viewing of brown bears and other wildlife, the best place to go is the Alaska Zoo or Alaska Conservation Center. For, both of these establishments offer a number of different types of bears and other wildlife which can be viewed during regular hours. The staff at these locations can also provide a great deal of information and insight in relation to brown bears and other animals housed at these locations.

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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