Accessible only by plane or boat, Katmai National Park and Preserve is best experienced as a multiday camping trip. In this vast wilderness, view the steaming remains of one of the 20th-century’s largest volcanic eruptions.
The volcano Novarupta erupted in 1912, shooting steam and ash 20 miles (30 kilometers) in the air. Its collapsed dome now rises only 200 feet (60 meters) in the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, but it remains active more than 100 years later. Reach the area with a 14-mile (23-kilometer) hike from the Valley Road. Hike to the nearby Baked Mountain Huts to camp in or near these plywood huts offering protection from wind and snow.
Canoe, fish and enjoy the solitude on the very large Naknek Lake, the scenic American Creek and the glacially fed Savonoski Loop. Travel along the park’s 400 miles (640 kilometers) of rugged Pacific Coast shoreline. Arrange a flightseeing trip over the park by air.
Hiking, boating and camping in the park’s challenging terrain take special skills. Review park guidelines and equip yourself with the recommended “Ten Essentials” before attempting backcountry travel. The Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes Tour provides bus transportation for valley day hikes or drop-off and prearranged pick-up for longer backcountry camping.
Look for some of the park’s more than 2,000 bears hunting salmon in the Brooks River, Geographic Harbor and Moraine Creek. Use the several observation platforms along the river for safe viewing. Hike to Hallo Bay, where bears often dig for clams. Peak bear viewing season spans June through September.
Backcountry camping is allowed throughout the park. Make reservations for access to the limited spots at Brooks Camp campground, which has some amenities.
The park is open year-round. Park entry and backcountry camping are free however, the Valley bus tour and the Brooks Camp campground charge fees. Reach the park via a small plane from Anchorage to Brooks Camp or boat in along the Pacific Coast.
U.S. national parks preserve and provide affordable access to the country’s most scenic landscapes. Enjoy your visit to the true wilderness of Katmai National Park and Preserve.