Katmai National Park
The centerpiece of massive, 7,383-square-mile Katmai National Park is the still-active Mount Katmai stratovolcano and the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, a 40-mile-long ash flow deposited by an eruption in 1912.
Plan Around Katmai National Park
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Katmai National Park Details
Katmai National Park is a unique wilderness area located in the southern region of Alaska. The park is named after Mount Katmai, a still-active stratovolcano that last erupted in 1912. The most distinctive feature of the park is the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, which is a 40-mile-long ash flow that was deposited by the eruption. One of the most popular activities in Katmai National Park is bear-watching. The park is home to one of the largest populations of brown bears in the world, and visitors can observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Brooks Camp is a prime location for bear-watching, as it provides a safe and comfortable viewing platform that overlooks the bears as they fish for salmon in Brooks River. Visitors can also explore the park on foot, hiking through the rugged terrain and taking in the stunning natural scenery. The park is home to over a dozen active volcanoes, including Mount Katmai. The 1912 eruption of Mount Katmai was one of the largest volcanic eruptions in recorded history, and it created the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes. This area is now an important scientific research site, as it provides valuable insights into the process of volcanic activity and the formation of geothermal features. The area has been inhabited by the Alutiiq people for thousands of years, and their traditional subsistence lifestyle is still practiced in the region. The park was established in 1918 to protect the region's natural and cultural resources, and it has since become a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Facilities in the park include several campgrounds, lodges, and visitor centers. There are also ranger-led programs and tours available, which provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the natural and cultural history of the region. Travel tips for visiting the park include bringing warm clothing, rain gear, and sturdy hiking boots. Visitors should also be aware of the park's regulations regarding bear safety. Nearby attractions include the city of King Salmon, which is the gateway to the park and offers a variety of services and amenities. The Bristol Bay region is also known for its world-class fishing, and visitors can try their hand at catching salmon and other freshwater species in the region's many rivers and streams.
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Alaska
Nearby Parks Around Katmai National Park
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Nearby Points of Interest Around Katmai National Park
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Katmai National Park while the map context is still fresh.
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Savonoski Loop
This 80-mile loop is one of the most popular inland paddling routes in the park.
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Brooks Camp Visitor Center
The only regular staffed visitor center in Katmai with a bookstore and all the backcountry info you can imagine.
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Brooks Lodge
Previously a fishing cap, this lodge now overs 16 rustic rooms and a classic Alaskan dining experience.
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Cultural Site
Katmai National Park is known for its prehistoric native Alaskan campsites, so be sure to check out the Cultural Site at Brooks Camp.
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Culture Site Trail
Don't miss the daily 2pm ranger guided walk on the cultural site trail.
