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katmai NATIONAL PARK
Katmai National Park and Preserve is located in southern Alaska. The reserve includes a part of the Aleutian ridge, a group of lakes, as well as 18 volcanoes, seven of which were active in the last century. The main attractions of the protected area are the Katmai volcano, the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes and a huge number of brown bears. Popular activities in the park include hiking, boating, bear watching and fishing.
Information
Part of the territory was declared a nature conservation area back in 1918, having received its status due to the activity of the Novarupta volcano. Later, these lands became valued due to the abundance of salmon and the number of brown bears attracted by them. The Katmai National Park is home to the largest of the protected populations of brown bears - currently over 2,000 individuals. The most popular salmon feeding spot for brown bears is Brooks Falls. Tourists come here to watch bears from June to October, when several dozen animals can be on the river at the same time.
Katmai is a very beautiful volcano. A small lake rests picturesquely in its caldera. The caldera is a dip in the summit of a volcano and is quite large in size. It was formed by a volcanic eruption in 1912 and is surrounded by five others. The diameter of Katmay is 6 miles, the width of the lake in its crater is approximately 2-3.5 miles. The volcano crater itself is located at an altitude of over 6,560 feet, with the highest point in Katmay at 6,716 feet above sea level.
Katmai National Park and Preserve, located in southern Alaska, is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, a result of a volcanic eruption. Here are some of the best hiking trails in the park:
Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes:
Distance: Varies (multiple trails available, ranging from 1 mile to longer hikes)
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Description: This area was formed by the 1912 eruption of Novarupta volcano and features a vast expanse of ash flow deposits and volcanic landscapes. Trails in this area offer opportunities to explore the unique geology, steam vents, and fumaroles.
Brooks Falls Trail:
Distance: 2 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Description: This trail leads from Brooks Camp to Brooks Falls, famous for its large population of brown bears fishing for salmon. Visitors can observe bears from viewing platforms along the trail.
Savonoski Loop Trail:
Distance: Approximately 4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: This trail near Brooks Camp offers views of Naknek Lake and the surrounding mountains. It's a good option for birdwatching and enjoying the scenic beauty of the area.
Dumpling Mountain Trail:
Distance: Approximately 5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Description: Located near Brooks Camp, this trail climbs Dumpling Mountain and offers panoramic views of Naknek Lake, the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, and the surrounding volcanic landscape. It's a longer hike with rewarding views.
Griggs River Trail:
Distance: Approximately 3 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Description: This trail follows the Griggs River through forests and wetlands, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching. It's a peaceful hike away from the more crowded areas of the park.
Hallo Bay Overlook Trail:
Distance: Approximately 1 mile round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Description: This short trail near Hallo Bay offers views of the bay and opportunities to observe coastal wildlife, including bears and marine mammals. It's accessible via boat or plane.
When hiking in Katmai National Park, it's important to be prepared for remote wilderness conditions and variable weather. Trails may be primitive and require proper gear, including bear spray and knowledge of bear safety protocols. Always check current conditions and regulations at the visitor center or ranger station before heading out on any hike.
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Official name - KATMAI National Park
Mailing Address: PO Box 7
1000 Silver Street, Building 603
King Salmon, AK 99613
Area 4,093,077 acres
Coordinates: 58.5°N 155°W
Established - December 2, 1980
Attendance - 37,000 people per year
