Katmai National Park and Preserve, located in southern Alaska on the northern Alaska Peninsula, was officially established as a national park on December 2, 1980. However, its protected status dates back much earlier—originating as a national monument in 1918. The history of Katmai’s establishment reflects a unique journey from geological catastrophe to environmental conservation.
Early Human Presence
Long before Katmai was recognized as a national park, it was home to Indigenous peoples for more than 9,000 years. The Alutiiq (Sugpiaq) people thrived along the coast, subsisting on marine life, caribou, and plant resources. Archaeological evidence reveals complex societies, trade networks, and rich cultural traditions, much of which is preserved in sites such as the Savonoski River Archeological District.
These early inhabitants adapted to the harsh environment and frequent volcanic activity of the region, developing unique tools, dwellings, and spiritual practices. Many of their descendants still live in nearby communities like King Salmon and Naknek, maintaining cultural ties to the land.
The Beginnings: 1912 Novarupta Eruption
The story begins with the massive eruption of Novarupta Volcano in June 1912, which was the largest volcanic eruption of the 20th century. It created a surreal ash-filled landscape known as the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, due to the countless fumaroles (steam vents) that vented from the earth in the years following the eruption.
The eruption dramatically altered the region and caught the attention of scientists and explorers, most notably the National Geographic Society, which funded several expeditions to study the aftermath. The spectacular, otherworldly scenery convinced early conservationists that the area deserved federal protection.
Katmai National Monument: Established 1918
In response to the scientific significance of the area, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed Katmai National Monument on September 24, 1918. This protected over 1 million acres of volcanic and wilderness land. The initial goal was to preserve the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes and the surrounding landscape affected by the eruption.
Though remote and rarely visited at the time, Katmai slowly gained recognition for its unique natural features and abundant wildlife.
Growing Conservation Focus: 1930s–1970s
Throughout the mid-20th century, the size of Katmai National Monument was expanded several times to protect salmon streams, coastal ecosystems, and growing brown bear populations. The monument became renowned as one of the best places in the world to observe Alaska brown bears, especially at Brooks Falls, where bears gather to catch spawning salmon each summer.
By the 1970s, conservationists advocated for greater protection of Katmai’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife.
National Park Status: December 2, 1980
The major turning point came with the passage of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA), signed into law by President Jimmy Carter on December 2, 1980. Under this legislation:
- Katmai was redesignated as a national park and preserve.
- The protected area was expanded to over 4 million acres.
- The new designation emphasized broader conservation goals, including protecting wildlife, natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and subsistence rights for local Alaska Native communities.
The “park” portion does not allow sport hunting, while the “preserve” area allows regulated sport and subsistence hunting under specific rules.
History of Katmai National Park – Timeline
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| June 6–9, 1912 | Eruption of Novarupta Volcano—largest eruption of the 20th century. |
| September 24, 1918 | Katmai National Monument established by President Woodrow Wilson to protect the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes. |
| 1931–1978 | Monument boundaries expanded multiple times to protect additional wildlife and ecosystems. |
| 1950s–1970s | Growing interest in protecting Katmai’s brown bear population and coastal habitats. |
| December 2, 1980 | Redesignated as Katmai National Park and Preserve under the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA). |
| Present Day | Katmai protects over 4 million acres of wilderness, volcanoes, wildlife, and cultural sites. |
Conclusion
Katmai’s journey from a volcanic wasteland to a national park is a testament to the value of protecting natural and cultural landscapes. Officially established as a national park on December 2, 1980, Katmai remains a symbol of nature’s power, resilience, and beauty. Today, it continues to inspire scientists, adventurers, and wildlife enthusiasts from around the world.