naknek lake

Flying in a float plane, taking off and landing in water, is pretty exciting the first couple times you do it. Thankfully, Naknek Lake was calm every time we had to use it.

In July and September this is one of the best locations for bear viewing in the world. Naknek Lake is a marvellous spot, tranquil and beautiful

A retiring Army buddy and myself had an awesome experience kayaking 7 days on Naknek. First and foremost, the kayak we rented from the concessionaire at Brooks Camp. The 21ft tandem was very sea worthy and well equipped with quality paddles, pump, compartment covers, life jackets and sponge. Albeit pricey, it was quality. Departing Brooks Camp and starting with a long paddle, our kayaking was primarily limited to Naknek's North Arm. The Bay of Islands provides many great island camping opportunities with "a little" less threat of bear encounters. The islands are scenic granite remnants shaped by millenniums of water/wind/ice/earthquake activity. Horseshoe island (ask a NP Ranger at Brooks) provided a delightful bay and comfy camp site. The lake and shore are teaming with wildlife: seasonal spawning salmon, bear, lynx, eagle, ptarmigan and many varieties of fowl. (did not see a moose ;-(A highlight of the trip was three nights at Fure's Cabin. Highly recommend booking through the NP Service if available. No charge for those willing to paddle the distance. An 80 year old prospector's cabin constructed with Russian influence (finely crafted dovetail corners), Roy Fure's legacy lives on for many generations to enjoy. Equipped with a bunk bed, wood burning stove, cooking table, dining table, a few basic necessities and a fine primitive privy 30 yards up the grassy hill; Fures cabin provided a much needed, dry respite from the sporadic rains. There is plenty of fishing opportunity for rainbow trout and northern pike nearby. And it is very likely you will have a grizzly reception. One morning, a young 2-3 year-old brown bear lumbered by the outhouse (while occupied by my paddling partner who thought I was "messing" with him by making bear sounds outside the privy door). Was he shocked when he threw the door open to scold me for my antics only to discover a bear staring him 5 yards away! Not to mention the scene of one of America's finest fighting men cautiously cowering back into the outhouse sanctuary. The young griz sauntered through camp, took a swim off our shore, entertained for a while and went bearishly happy on his way. We are very conscious of bear etiquette. One bit of Naknek kayaking advice: the weather and wind can turn on a dime. On more than one occasion we would start paddling in calm, glassy water only to find ourselves 30 minutes and 2 miles from shore in 20-30mph wind with rolling white caps. Be prepared for some hard paddling and stay close to shore as much as your route and destination will allow. A real testament to the need for a boat in good repair which, again, the concession at Brooks Camp provided.Cheers to the beauty and wilderness of Naknek Lake and Katmai National Park.

This is the biggest fresh water lake in Alaska. The water is an amazing blue. We flew in to Katmai National Park and landed on the lake. There are very few amenities but the trip is well worth it.

Beautiful scenery and bear prints are plentiful on the beach. Lots of photo opportunities if the sun is out.

I went to katmai in last week of july. It was a life changing experience. Had lot of fun walking up and down to brooks fall. I loved the dedication and enthusiasm of all NPS rangers. I miss crazy bear :). Here are some pictures from my trip[ http://creativeshutter.com/wordpress/?page_id=707 ] I would definitely come back to this wonderful place.

On a cruise on Lake Naknek in search for bears on the shores, the engine broke down and we had to wait to be rescued. While waiting we enjoyed an awesome sunset over the lake!