Alaska, the Last Frontier, is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. With its vast wilderness, diverse ecosystems, and relatively sparse human population, it offers unparalleled opportunities to observe animals in their natural habitats.
From mighty grizzly bears fishing for salmon to majestic whales breaching in icy waters, Alaska’s wildlife viewing experiences are truly awe-inspiring. Here’s where to go – and a few tips to make it memorable.
Denali National Park and Preserve
Home to grizzly bears, wolves, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep – Denali is a wildlife viewer’s dream. The park’s shuttle buses offer the best chances for spotting animals against the backdrop of North America’s highest peak. For the longest trip through the park, maximizing wildlife viewing opportunities, visitors should book a shuttle to Wonder Lake.
Katmai National Park and Preserve
Famous for its brown bear population, Katmai offers the chance to witness these magnificent creatures fishing for salmon. The Brooks Falls viewing platform provides front-row seats to this spectacular display of nature in action. July is the best time to visit for peak salmon runs and bear activity, but accommodations fill up quickly, so early booking is essential.
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Kenai Fjords National Park
This coastal park is a haven for marine wildlife. Boat tours provide opportunities to see orcas, humpback whales, sea otters, and massive colonies of seabirds nesting on rocky cliffs. Opting for a smaller boat tour can provide a more intimate wildlife viewing experience.
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve
Another marine wildlife hotspot, Glacier Bay is known for its whale-watching opportunities. The park’s rich waters attract humpback whales, orcas, and even the rare blue whale. The best whale-watching conditions are typically between May and September.
Arctic National Wildlife Refuge
This remote wilderness is home to the Porcupine Caribou Herd and polar bears. While challenging to access, it offers a true wilderness experience and the chance to see Arctic wildlife. Joining a guided tour is recommended for the safest and most informative experience in this remote region.
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Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge
Home to the Kodiak bear, the largest subspecies of brown bear, this island refuge offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities. Bald eagles and various seabirds also abound in the area. Taking a floatplane tour can provide a bird’s-eye view of the bears and the island’s rugged landscape.
Chugach State Park
Just minutes from Anchorage, Chugach offers accessible wildlife viewing. Moose, black bears, and Dall sheep are commonly sighted in the park. Driving the Seward Highway along Turnagain Arm can also provide potential beluga whale sightings.
Sitka
This charming coastal town is a great place to see marine wildlife. The Alaska Raptor Center rehabilitates birds of prey, offering close-up views of bald eagles and other raptors. Taking a boat tour to St. Lazaria Island, a national wildlife refuge teeming with seabirds, can enhance the wildlife viewing experience.
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Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve
America’s largest national park is home to diverse wildlife, including mountain goats, caribou, and a variety of bird species. Visiting the Kennecott Mines area offers a chance to see both wildlife and fascinating Alaskan history.
Pack Creek Brown Bear Viewing Area
Located on Admiralty Island, nicknamed ‘Fortress of the Bears,’ Pack Creek offers excellent opportunities to observe brown bears in their natural habitat. Booking with a licensed guide ensures the best and safest viewing experience.
Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center
Just outside Juneau, this accessible area offers chances to see black bears, beavers, and various bird species. The salmon-viewing window provides an underwater view of fish returning to spawn while hiking the Nugget Falls trail offers scenic views and potential wildlife sightings.
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Nome
This remote town on the Bering Sea is a birdwatcher’s paradise, especially during the spring and fall migrations. It’s also a great place to see muskoxen. Visiting in early June provides the chance to see rare Asian birds that occasionally make their way to Alaska.
Seward
This coastal town is the gateway to Kenai Fjords and offers its own wildlife viewing opportunities. The Alaska SeaLife Center provides close-up views of marine animals and birds, while guided kayak tours in Resurrection Bay offer chances to see sea otters and seals up close.
Haines
Known as the ‘Valley of the Eagles,’ Haines boasts one of the world’s largest concentrations of bald eagles. It’s also a great place to see brown bears fishing for salmon. Visiting in late fall for the Alaska Bald Eagle Festival allows visitors to witness thousands of eagles congregating in the area.
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Anan Wildlife Observatory
Near Wrangell, this observatory offers excellent opportunities to see both black and brown bears fishing for salmon, often close to each other. Permits should be secured well in advance, as daily visitor numbers are limited.
McNeil River State Game Sanctuary
This sanctuary boasts the world’s largest concentration of brown bears. Viewing is strictly regulated, with access determined by lottery. Applications for the lottery must be submitted by March 1st for a chance to visit during the peak viewing season of June to August.
Poker Creek Flats
Located along the Dalton Highway, this area is excellent for viewing migratory birds, including sandhill cranes and various waterfowl species. Bringing binoculars and a bird identification guide can enhance the viewing experience.
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Cordova
This small coastal town offers diverse wildlife viewing opportunities, from millions of shorebirds during spring migration to brown bears and moose. Visiting during the Copper River Delta Shorebird Festival in early May provides access to guided viewing excursions.
Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve
One of the least visited national parks, Gates of the Arctic offers true wilderness and the chance to see caribou, wolves, and a variety of Arctic wildlife. Due to its remoteness, joining a guided expedition is recommended for safety and logistics.
Utqiaġvik (formerly Barrow)
The northernmost city in the U.S. offers unique Arctic wildlife viewing opportunities, including polar bears, walruses, and various whale species. Joining a guided tour is essential for the best chances of safely spotting polar bears.
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Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve
Located near Haines, this preserve hosts thousands of bald eagles, particularly in late fall when they gather to feed on salmon. Taking a raft trip down the Chilkat River can provide an up-close eagle-viewing experience.
Prince William Sound
This vast area offers excellent opportunities to see marine wildlife, including sea otters, harbor seals, and various whale species. Taking a glacier and wildlife cruise from Whittier can provide a comprehensive experience of the area’s natural wonders.
Pribilof Islands
These remote islands in the Bering Sea are home to millions of seabirds and northern fur seals. They’re also one of the best places in Alaska to see the rare red-legged kittiwake. The best wildlife viewing opportunities are typically between May and October.
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Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge
Located in eastern Alaska, this refuge is an important migratory bird habitat. It’s also home to moose, caribou, and bears. Driving the Top of the World Highway offers scenic views and potential wildlife sightings.
Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge
Located in Fairbanks, this easily accessible refuge is great for birdwatching, especially during spring and fall migrations. Visiting the farmhouse visitor center provides information on recent wildlife sightings and best viewing spots.
Tips for Wildlife Viewing in Alaska
- Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance. Use binoculars or telephoto lenses for close-up views.
- Be patient and quiet. Wildlife viewing often requires time and stillness.
- Learn about the animals you hope to see, including their habits and habitats.
- Dress in layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
- Consider hiring a guide, especially in remote areas or for specialized wildlife viewing.
- Be aware of seasonal variations in wildlife activity and plan your trip accordingly.
- Always prioritize safety and follow local guidelines and regulations.
- Embrace the unexpected – some of the best wildlife encounters are unplanned.
Embracing Alaska’s Wildlife Wonders
Alaska’s diverse landscapes offer countless opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitats. From easily accessible viewing areas near major cities to remote wilderness locations, there’s something for every type of wildlife enthusiast.
By following these tips and respecting the animals and their environment, visitors can enjoy safe, responsible, and unforgettable wildlife viewing experiences in the Last Frontier.
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