Best Things to Do in Katmai National Park

Katmai National Park and Preserve, tucked away in Alaska’s rugged southwest, is one of the most remote and wild destinations in the United States. Famous for its thriving brown bear population, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and untouched wilderness, Katmai offers experiences you can’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, an adventurer, or a nature lover, this park delivers an unforgettable journey. Here are the best things to do in Katmai National Park.

1. Watch Brown Bears at Brooks Falls

The number one attraction in Katmai is bear watching, especially at Brooks Falls, where brown bears gather every summer to feast on sockeye salmon. The viewing platforms give you a safe but close perspective of these powerful animals fishing in the rushing waters. July and September are the best months to witness this spectacular event.

2. Explore the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes

Created by the massive Novarupta eruption of 1912, the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes is a surreal volcanic landscape filled with ash flows, canyons, and smoking fumaroles. Guided tours from Brooks Camp provide access to this otherworldly region, giving you a glimpse of Katmai’s fiery past.

3. Go Fishing in Pristine Waters

Katmai is a world-class destination for anglers. Rivers like the Naknek and Alagnak are famous for their salmon runs, while crystal-clear streams offer chances to catch rainbow trout and Arctic char. Whether fly-fishing or spin-fishing, you’ll find incredible opportunities in the park’s waters.

4. Take a Flightseeing Tour

Because much of Katmai is roadless, a flightseeing tour is one of the best ways to appreciate its scale and beauty. From the air, you can take in snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, volcanic craters, and meandering rivers. Many tours also land inside the park, giving you the chance to combine aerial views with on-the-ground exploration.

5. Go Hiking in the Wilderness

For adventurous visitors, Katmai offers backcountry hiking and camping with no marked trails or developed campsites. This means you can explore untouched wilderness, but it also requires preparation and experience. Day hikes near Brooks Camp—like the Dumpling Mountain Trail—are perfect for those who want a shorter adventure with sweeping views.

6. Kayak or Canoe on Remote Lakes

Katmai is home to countless lakes and rivers, making it a paradise for paddlers. Trips on Naknek Lake or Brooks Lake let you explore the park at your own pace, with the chance to see wildlife, towering cliffs, and quiet shorelines. Because the waters are remote, paddling here is both peaceful and exhilarating.

7. Experience Wildlife Beyond the Bears

While brown bears are the stars of Katmai, the park also hosts moose, wolves, foxes, caribou, and more than 200 bird species. Birdwatchers will find bald eagles, loons, and migrating waterfowl. Every corner of Katmai holds the possibility of a surprising wildlife encounter.

8. Learn at the Brooks Camp Visitor Center

The Brooks Camp Visitor Center is the hub for most visitors, offering ranger programs, cultural exhibits, and guided activities. Here, you can learn about the park’s geology, wildlife, and human history before heading out on your adventure.

Final Thoughts

Katmai National Park isn’t the easiest place to reach, but that’s part of its magic. The remote location preserves its wild character and makes every experience—from bear watching to hiking volcanic valleys—feel raw and authentic. Whether you come for the wildlife, the landscapes, or the solitude, Katmai promises an adventure you’ll remember for a lifetime.