Know Before You Go | Alaska
Whether you're preparing for your upcoming trip to Alaska or just want to learn more about the last frontier, we've got you covered. We've rounded up an array of useful resources, from wildlife guides and packing tips, to nature quizzes and travel stories to inspire your wanderlust. The links below open each article in a new tab.
Travel Tips
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Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about Alaska? We've got answers! We've compiled a list of our most frequently asked questions about brown bears, Alaskan wildlife, lodges, transportation, weather and more.
Wildlife Guide
Wildlife Guide
There is an astounding array of wildlife you can encounter on a trip to Alaska, including coastal brown bears, whales, eagles and so much more!
When to Go—The Ebbs and Flows of Grizzly Bear Season
When to Go—The Ebbs and Flows of Grizzly Bear Season
Learn about the "ebbs and flows" of grizzly bear migration patterns in Katmai, gleaned from more than a decade of operating brown bear trips in Alaska.
A Closer Look at the Natural
Habitat Ursus
Habitat Ursus
A Closer Look at the Natural
Habitat Ursus
Learn more about the M/V Natural Habitat Ursus—the ideal vessel for exploring the Katmai coast and viewing Alaska’s giant brown bears at exceptionally close range.
Alaskan Wilderness Trivia
Alaskan Wilderness Trivia
Take our Alaska wilderness quiz to put your knowledge to the test, then share it with friends to see who knows the most about the last frontier!
Weather & Climate
Weather & Climate
Find out what the typical weather conditions in Alaska in this month by month breakdown of average temperatures and rainfall.
Packing Lists
Packing Lists
Wondering what to bring to Alaska in the summer or fall? Check out our detailed packing lists for tips from our Alaska experts!
Travel Stories & Articles
When Is the Best Time to Go to Alaska to See Grizzly Bears?
When Is the Best Time to Go to Alaska to See Grizzly Bears?
—By Emily Goodheart Kautz
An excursion into Katmai National Park and Preserve varies widely from one month to the next due to...
An excursion into Katmai National Park and Preserve varies widely from one month to the next due to...
Traveler Story: Surrounded by Bears in Alaska
Traveler Story: Surrounded by Bears in Alaska
—By Bob & Norma Schafer
A mother grizzly bear and her two cubs were walking about 5 feet in front of our line of travelers in Katmai National Park, Alaska. There was a small...
A mother grizzly bear and her two cubs were walking about 5 feet in front of our line of travelers in Katmai National Park, Alaska. There was a small...
The Coastal Grizzlies of Alaska: A Photo Journal
The Coastal Grizzlies of Alaska: A Photo Journal
—By Candice Gaukel Andrews
Having the opportunity to spend time with Alaska’s big brown bears is one of the most authentic wildlife experiences any...
Having the opportunity to spend time with Alaska’s big brown bears is one of the most authentic wildlife experiences any...
Traveler Story: Grizzly Bear Drama in Katmai
Traveler Story: Grizzly Bear Drama in Katmai
—By Mary Glaser
I had so many fond memories from our trip to Katmai National Park, but one of my favorite stories was when we went...
I had so many fond memories from our trip to Katmai National Park, but one of my favorite stories was when we went...
5 Tips for Photographing Grizzly Bears
5 Tips for Photographing Grizzly Bears
—By Peter Davis Krahenbuhl
Images of Alaska’s enormous brown bears are among the most iconic wildlife photos on Earth. If you are fortunate enough to...
Images of Alaska’s enormous brown bears are among the most iconic wildlife photos on Earth. If you are fortunate enough to...
Traveler Story: Finding a Personal Connection With Brown Bears
Traveler Story: Finding a Personal Connection With Brown Bears
—By Nat Hab Traveler Valerie Van Griethuysen
I experienced countless memorable moments during my Ultimate Alaska...
I experienced countless memorable moments during my Ultimate Alaska...
Fox Island: A Little Piece of Paradise
Fox Island: A Little Piece of Paradise
—By Renata Haas
One experience that far exceeded my expectations was our visit to Fox Island and the Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge. We were welcomed to our private...
One experience that far exceeded my expectations was our visit to Fox Island and the Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge. We were welcomed to our private...
Traveler Story: The Magic of Autumn's Solitude at Brooks Falls
Traveler Story: The Magic of Autumn's Solitude at Brooks Falls
—By Phyllis Posner
It is the end of the season. As we walk through Katmai National Park each day, there are several bears left, still filling up on food for winter...
It is the end of the season. As we walk through Katmai National Park each day, there are several bears left, still filling up on food for winter...
Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge, A Must See
Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge, A Must See
—By Holly Glessner
In 2015, I had the privilege of joining an Ultimate Alaska Wildlife Photo Safari for a spectacular 14-day tour of Alaska’s...
In 2015, I had the privilege of joining an Ultimate Alaska Wildlife Photo Safari for a spectacular 14-day tour of Alaska’s...
Know Before You Go
