Highlights
- Experience the thrill of a floatplane ride from Homer to Brooks Falls
- See bears feeding on salmon at the world-renowned Brooks Falls in Katmai NP
- Explore the boardwalks and trails while fully immersed in the bear's habitat
- Watch bears feeding on salmon at the falls from a viewing platform
- Scenic views of Alaska as you fly over Augustine Volcano across Cook Inlet
Description
A Day at Brooks Falls
Brooks Falls, located in Katmai National Park and Preserve in Alaska, is perhaps the most famous place on Earth to observe brown bears fishing for salmon. Each summer, thousands of Sockeye salmon (and later in the season some Coho salmon) migrate upstream through the Brooks River. At a six-foot waterfall, the salmon often attempt to leap upstream — and that bottleneck draws large numbers of bears who gather to feed. Because of this predictable salmon run, bears congregate reliably from mid- to late June through September, giving visitors one of the best chances in the world to observe wild bears in their natural habitat. The park has multiple raised viewing platforms — including one directly adjacent to Brooks Falls — that allow visitors to watch safely while minimizing disturbance to the bears.
What to Expect
After arriving by floatplane, visitors begin at the ranger station for a safety briefing, and then head to the boardwalks and viewing platforms for bear watching.
On the viewing platforms you may see bears strolling along the river or beach, fishing for salmon, or sometimes even competing for the best fishing spots.
You might observe different behaviors: dominant males guarding prime spots, sows with cubs learning how to fish, or bears waiting patiently just below the falls for escaping salmon.
The result is an incredible, immersive wildlife experience — an opportunity to witness the power of nature and the raw behavior of Alaska’s coastal brown bears.
Includes
Floatplane ride from Homer
Visit to Katmai National Park
Safety briefing with Park Rangers
Exploration of boardwalks and trails
Bear Viewing at Brooks Falls
Excludes
Meals and drinks
Transportation to Homer
Personal expenses
Gratuities
Important Information
- Wear comfortable waterproof walking shoes or boots
Bring a camera for photos
Bring water and snacks
Follow all safety instructions provided by the park rangers
Be prepared for possible encounters with wildlife
Respect the natural habitat of the bears and other wildlife
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
