Friday, February 1, 2019

The Best Alaska Brown Bear Viewing Areas

By Roger Hughes


Viewing animals from afar can be exciting when part of a safari. Whereas, there are other times when individuals prefer a close up view. In the case of Alaska brown bear viewing, individuals can have it both ways. For, some of the most beautiful spots for viewing black, brown and grizzly bears are located in the state.

If interested in visiting these areas, it is possible to take a boat or airplane ride to the area. While this is the case, it is important to plan a trip which will align with the best viewing dates. In most cases, areas in which salmon and other fish spawn are most likely going to have the most bear populations.

Bear populations are most likely the highest in the Summer months near Chinitna Bay. For, the bears often move between different areas of the bay to find food. In addition, beach grasses, shellfish and salmon are all attractive to all types of bears. As such, whether flying in, or just taking a trip, this area might be the best place to view bears, especially when having limited time for viewing.

Redoubt Bay offers some of the best viewing between June and August by way of a covered boat with an expert guide. Whereas, Katmai National Park and Brook Falls are often better in the month of July. During this time, bears often frequent Brook Falls and snap fish atop the waterfalls. While, those visiting in late Summer may want to make a stop at Lake National Park as viewing in this area is much better in late August and early September.

For individuals whom can plan travel in advance, McNeil River State Game Sanctuary provides an incredible trip. For, guided and unguided trips are available June through August. Although, access to the park is strictly controlled as a means of preserving the area. As such, a lottery takes place each season to select the individual or family whom can visit the sanctuary.

If still having questions related to watching brown bears or where to stay, there are a number of professional tour guides and travel agencies which can help. In addition, as bear populations are scattered throughout the state, there's always a chance to spot a bear on different types of trips. Some of these include, flightseeing tours, day cruises and ATV tours along beaches and more rural areas.

While seeing wildlife can never really be guaranteed, there are some places in which bears can always be viewed. These include the Alaska Zoo and the Alaska Conservation Center. Both the zoo and conservation center house different species of bears including brown bears as well as a few polar bears.

When planning on taking such a trip, there are several options. One of which is booking an Alaskan cruise, or flying into the area and visiting various areas by tour busy, rental car or other transportation. In all cases, it is important to inquire as to activities are included in package deals in order to properly budget for this type of trip.




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