Lake Clark National Park & Preserve
National Park · Alaska

Lake Clark National Park & Preserve

Photo: Ryjil Christianson · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Lake Clark is a remote wilderness southwest of Anchorage, with steaming volcanoes, glaciers, turquoise lakes and coastal meadows full of brown bears. Most visitors fly in for bear viewing along the Cook Inlet coast or to hike and paddle near Port Alsworth. There are no roads, so plan everything, including food and gear, through an air taxi or lodge.

Good to know

Tickets
The park does not charge an entry fee. Air taxis, lodges and guided trips cost extra, so check nps.gov for authorized operators.
Time needed
A full day for a fly-in bear tour; several days for hiking or paddling.
Best time
June to September. Coastal bear viewing peaks in June and July; fall colors arrive in late August.
Getting there
Small planes fly from Anchorage to Port Alsworth in about 1 hour 15 minutes; Anchorage is also the nearest major airport. There are no roads to the park.

Where to stay nearby

Gateway towns with hotels and food, close to the park entrances:
Port Alsworth, Alaska
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Lake Clark National Park & Preserve questions

How do you get to Lake Clark National Park?

Only by small plane or boat. Most people fly from Anchorage, Homer or Kenai with an air taxi or tour company.

Can you see bears at Lake Clark?

Yes. Silver Salmon Creek and Chinitna Bay on the coast are known for brown bears grazing and fishing in summer.

Where should I stay at Lake Clark?

Private lodges in Port Alsworth and on the coast offer packages. Campers can use backcountry sites, but must be fully self-sufficient.

Nearby national parks