Katmai Alaska: Brooks Falls Bear Viewing by Floatplane

The Katmai Alaska: Brooks Falls Bear Viewing by Floatplane offers a unique chance to see iconic Alaskan brown bears in their natural habitat. This 6-hour adventure departs from the Alaska Bear Safaris Cabin at Beluga Lake and includes a scenic floatplane flight over the Alaskan wilderness, a guided hike, and bear viewing from specially built platforms at Brooks Falls. The tour is designed for small groups, limited to 7 participants, which ensures a more intimate experience.

This trip appeals most to those who seek a close-up experience of wild bears and enjoy flightseeing. The tour price is not specified but includes all activities, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Be aware of the weight limit of 220 lbs and weather-dependent timing, but rest assured that safety and comfort are priorities, with facilities and safety briefings provided at the start.

Key Points

• Fly in a DeHavilland Beaver floatplane over the Alaskan wilderness to reach Katmai National Park.
• See wild brown bears catching jumping salmon at Brooks Falls from protected viewing platforms.
• Hike approximately 1.5 miles to the main falls, walking at your own pace.
• Guided orientation by park rangers includes a bear etiquette film and safety briefing.
• Limited to 7 participants, offering a personal and less crowded experience.
• Maximum body weight of 220 lbs fully clothed, including gear.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Scenic floatplane flight over the Alaskan wilderness

The adventure begins with a floatplane departure from Beluga Lake. The DeHavilland Beaver aircraft provides a stunning aerial view of the vast, rugged Alaskan landscape, offering an unforgettable perspective on this remote wilderness. The flight to Katmai National Park is a highlight, allowing travelers to see glaciers, mountains, and sprawling forests from above.

Once you land on a lake within Katmai, the journey continues with a visit to the Brooks Camp visitor center. Here, rangers present a bear etiquette film and give an orientation, ensuring visitors understand the importance of safety and respectful observation of wildlife during the hike and viewing.

Hike to Brooks Falls and the importance of the platforms

The walk to Brooks Falls is approximately 1.5 miles from the visitor center. The trail is accessible, and hikers can walk at their own pace, enjoying the scenery and wildlife along the way. The main viewing platforms are built by the National Park Service and allow visitors to observe bears safely and up close as they catch salmon.

These platforms provide excellent vantage points for photographing and watching bears in action, especially during the salmon run, which is a spectacle of nature. The walk and viewing experience are designed to balance wildlife viewing with visitor safety.

Viewing bears catching jumping salmon at Brooks Falls

The core highlight of this tour is witnessing bears catch salmon at Brooks Falls. The falls are famous for the spectacle of bears diving and leaping to catch fish mid-air. This natural event occurs during the salmon run, making it a prime time for observing these majestic creatures.

The viewing platforms are carefully positioned to maximize animal sightings while maintaining a safe distance. This allows visitors to get remarkably close to the bears in their natural environment, creating memorable photos and moments.

Practical information for participants

Participants meet at the Alaska Bear Safaris Cabin at 59.64215850830078, -151.5208282470703. Once there, they meet their bush pilot and receive a safety briefing before boarding the floatplane. The flight duration and exact timing depend on weather conditions, which can affect the schedule.

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, water, rain gear, and insect repellent. Since littering and smoking are not permitted, visitors are encouraged to respect the environment. Inside the park, facilities such as outhouses are available for convenience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Accessibility, weight restrictions, and considerations

The tour is designed for those who are physically able to walk the 1.5-mile trail at their own pace. It is not suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, or people with heart problems. The maximum weight, fully clothed with gear, is 220 lbs.

Weather can influence the experience, potentially shortening or delaying ground time. Travelers should be prepared for varying conditions and bring appropriate clothing.

The safety and environmental focus of the experience

Safety is a priority throughout this trip. The orientation provided by rangers emphasizes bear safety etiquette to ensure both visitors and wildlife are protected. The built platforms are positioned to minimize disturbance and maximize safety, allowing viewers to watch bears without interfering with their natural activities.

The tour emphasizes respect for wildlife and the importance of leaving no trace. Visitors are asked to bring their own food and drinks, as none are supplied, and to avoid littering.

Comparing this tour to other wildlife experiences

While similar bear-viewing tours exist in Alaska, this experience stands out due to the combination of floatplane flight and hiking to a renowned bear habitat. The small group size enhances the opportunity for personalized wildlife viewing and less crowded platforms.

Compared to glacier cruises or other park tours, this offers a more active and immersive experience, focusing on wildlife behavior rather than just scenery. The flight aspect adds a sense of adventure and provides a broader view of the Alaskan wilderness.

Booking and cancellation flexibility

The tour operates with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure**, giving flexibility to travelers. It allows reserve and pay later, making initial planning easier amid changing travel plans. Availability varies, so it’s advisable to check specific starting times for your preferred date.

Katmai Brooks Falls Floatplane Bear Viewing: Final Thoughts

This 6-hour tour offers a rare opportunity to witness majestic bears in their natural habitat, enhanced by a scenic floatplane flight over Alaska’s wilderness. The guided hike and safety protocols make it suitable for those who appreciate both adventure and wildlife observation.

While the weight limit and weather dependence are limitations to consider, the experience remains highly rewarding for anyone interested in Alaskan wildlife and aerial views of remote landscapes. It’s an ideal choice for nature lovers eager for a personalized, intimate encounter with Alaska’s iconic bears.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes the floatplane flight, guided hike, bear viewing platforms, and park orientation. Food and drinks are not provided.

What is the maximum weight allowed?
The fully clothed weight limit, including gear, is 220 lbs.

How long does the hike to Brooks Falls take?
The hike is about 1.5 miles and can be walked at your own pace.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 8 years old.

What should I bring?
Participants should bring comfortable shoes, camera, sunscreen, water, rain gear, and insect repellent.

Is the weather a concern?
Yes, weather can impact flight schedules and ground time. Be prepared for changing conditions.

How do I meet the guide?
At the Alaska Bear Safaris Cabin at the specified coordinates, where you’ll meet your bush pilot.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is there an option to pay later?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby