Katmai National Park and Preserve trip planner

The volcanic landscape of Katmai National Park and Preserve is home to thousands of brown bears who spend their summers fattening up on the plentiful salmon that fill the wilderness area's rivers and streams. The three-day eruption of Novarupta in 1912 completely transformed the landscape here. Much of the ash from the eruption collected in what is now called the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, where it lies up to 210 m (700 ft) deep across a 100 sq km (40 sq mi) area. The River Lethe has carved a deep canyon through the valley, allowing for glimpses of the different strata of ash flow. When it comes to park wildlife, brown bears are the stars of the show, but moose, caribou, and wolves also roam inland while sea otters, sea lions, and even a few species of whale swim offshore. Recreational opportunities include hiking, biking, camping, boating, kayaking, fishing, and flying over the park in a small airplane. The only way to reach the park is by boat or seaplane. Explore the family-friendly attractions of Katmai National Park and Preserve and add them to your vacation plans using our United States day trip app.