National Parks Journal
Photo: NPS/David Jacob
Katmai National Park & Preserve
A landscape is alive underneath our feet, filled with creatures that remind us what it is to be wild. Katmai was established in 1918 to protect the volcanically devastated region surrounding Novarupta and the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes. Today, Katmai National Park and Preserve also protects 9,000 years of human history and important habitat for salmon and thousands of brown bears.
Entrance Fees
No entrance fee. Other fees may apply for tours, camping, or transportation.
Activities
Top Hikes
2.4 mi · out & back
Walk through boreal forest to viewing platforms overlooking Brooks Falls, the iconic brown bear fishing spot during salmon runs.
Starts at: Brooks Camp
3 mi · 800 ft gain · out & back
Climb through boreal forest and subalpine meadows to views of Naknek Lake and Brooks River.
Starts at: Brooks Camp Campground
8 mi · 2,000 ft gain · out & back
Continue beyond the overlook through alpine tundra to the 2,440-foot summit with panoramic volcano views.
Starts at: Brooks Camp Campground
3.4 mi · 1,000 ft gain · out & back
Descend to the ash-covered valley floor of the 1912 Novarupta eruption, one of the largest volcanic events in recorded history.
Starts at: Robert F. Griggs Visitor Center
Upcoming Events
No upcoming events scheduled for Katmai National Park & Preserve. Events are updated daily — check back soon or visit nps.gov for the latest.
Best Time to Visit
Best time to visit: May
Pleasant weather with fewer crowds
Weather & Climate
Located between the stormy north Pacific Ocean and the even stormier Bering Sea, the Katmai region is often a battleground between weather systems. When you visit, be prepared to encounter all types of weather. On average, wet and cool conditions predominate in spring, summer, and fall. Winters are drier and colder.