When is the best time to see the bears?
This depends on what you want to watch the bears doing and how many bears you need to see but generally:
You will see the most bears in mid June through the end of July, during this time of year we usually see at least 20 bears per tour and some times as many as 30.
Bear cubs are usually more frequent toward the end of June through August.
Fishing season on the Katmai coast will begin in late July to early August and continue through the first half of September. Within this period of time the amount of fish running varies and so will the bear’s fishing activity.
What other wildlife is possible to see?
At any given time you might see Wolves, Foxes, Sea Otters, Harbor Seals, Eagles and other Birds.
How difficult are the Trips?
The day tours are considered easy to moderate. You need to be able to walk for 3 miles in 3 hours on level but often uneven terrain.
The overnight tours are moderate. We usually hike 10 mile throughout the day and the camping is basic.
Are children allowed?
Children are welcome on our tours and although there is no age restriction we require that they are well behaved and old enough to understand and follow the directions of the guide. Generally we have found that children should be around 8 years old to participate, understand the importance of the environment we operate in and get a lot more from the tour.
Are meals included?
Meals are not provided on the day tours. We will have an opportunity to stop and eat a snack during the day. We recommend eating a good breakfast before the tour, bringing a light snack for the tour (energy bars, fruit etc.) and having a lunch when you return. Because of the sensitivity of the environment meat products are discouraged and fish products are not allowed at all.
What do I need to bring?
Day trip check list
- Day Pack
*One that can ride on your back well enough to keep your hands free. - Binoculars
- Camera
*Extra battery and memory card for the camera - Insect Repellent
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Water bottle
Clothing
- Wind/Rain Gear-Both jacket and pants
- Wool/wool-blend or fleece sweater/pullover
*cotton is not recommended - Sun hat
- Warm fleece or wool/ wool blend hat
- Pair of fleece or wool/ wool blend
- gloves
Camping check list
- Day Pack
*One that can ride on your back well enough to keep your hands free. - Binoculars
- Camera
*Extra battery and memory card for the camera - Insect Repellent
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Water bottle
- Personal toiletries
- Flashlight (for trips after August 1st)
- Trip journal/diary
Clothing
- Wind/Rain Gear-Both jacket and pants
*High quality rain gear is essential for camping trips, as a great deal of time is spent - outdoors, discount house disposable rain suits are NOT acceptable.
- Wool/wool-blend or fleece sweater/pullover
- Medium weight polar fleece or pile jacket
- 2 changes of light weight clothing made from quick dry fabric
*cotton is not recommended - At lest 4 pairs of wool/wool blend socks
- Sleeping clothes
- Hiking boots – light to medium weight; water resistant or waterproofed
- Sun hat
- Warm fleece or wool/ wool blend hat
- Pair of fleece gloves or wool/ wool blend
How long is the flight?
The flight to Katmai last 1 to 1½ hours and the flight to Lake Clark lasts ½ to ¾ hour one way depending on the weather conditions and route taken.
