No matter what else happens in my life, I believe I will die happy for having communed with the grizzlies at Katmai National Park and Preserve.
― Jen (National Parks Conservation Association)
Date Created: Katmai National Park and Preserve was established as a national monument on September 24, 1918, and it was later designated a national park and preserve on December 2, 1980.
Location: Alaska Peninsula in southern Alaska, USA.
Size: Approximately 4,093,077 acres (1,654,093 hectares).
Bears, bears and more bears. I learned a great deal about bears. Arriving at Douglas Point by float plane from Homer our group of 10 walked mostly single file through tundra and marshes to meet up – sometimes rather close and personal with brown bears. Some I swear showed off by rolling around, sprawling out and posing in a seated position while others drifted off from our intrusion. Several times we inadvertently stumbled upon on some mating couples who were not at all distracted. Generally, the green grasses kept the grizzlies just meandering along while grazing. As we quietly watched and waited several bears became curious and begin to walk closer – and closer. At that point we stood shoulder to shoulder in double lines. One particular encounter we were instructed to get on our knees, look down and be quiet. Our guide, with flare in hand kept a watchful eye as the bear eventually lost interest and wandered off. Enough of bears – Katmai National Park is beautiful. Pristine beaches, brilliant wildflowers, volcanos – some very active, boreal forests and alpine tundra are a rare treat for those who love nature at its finest.
