Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Katmai National Park covers 4,093,077 acres in southern Alaska and is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and adventurers alike. The park was established in 1918, primarily to preserve the dramatic landscape formed by the eruption of Novarupta in 1912, which created the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, a noteworthy geological feature. The park is most famous for its large population of brown bears, largely due to its plentiful salmon runs along the Brooks River. Visitors flock here each summer to witness bears catching salmon from the falls, a spectacle that has made Katmai internationally famous. Apart from bear viewing, visitors can explore the volcanic terrains, pristine rivers, and abundant wildlife, including moose, caribou, and a variety of birds. Recreation opportunities abound with activities such as hiking, backpacking, fishing, and kayaking in its diverse wilderness. The park's remote location and raw, natural landscapes offer a true Alaskan wilderness experience, away from the hustle of urban life.
