Bear Photography in Alaska (Where to go)
Alaska stands out as the ultimate destination for capturing breathtaking bear photography. Organizing a photo tour to this magnificent place poses a challenge due to the many options available.
Having led photo tours and workshops to Alaska for several years, I can attest that meticulous planning and research are crucial. Through careful preparation, you can seize the opportunity to capture stunning images of coastal grizzlies and their playful cubs as they feast on clams, mussels, and sedges. Additionally, you'll have the chance to photograph the spectacle of spawning salmon navigating glacier-fed rivers that cascade onto untamed beaches.
This article is designed to equip you with effective photographic strategies for unforgettable bear photography in Alaska. The adventure of capturing these majestic bears in their natural habitat is an experience that you will never forget.
There are 5 different ways to see, and photograph bears in Alaska
Road accessible locations: These locations offer the most budget-friendly option for bear viewing. However, this affordability comes at a cost, as the likelihood of encountering bears is considerably lower compared to other alternatives. Additionally, these areas are susceptible to hunting, further diminishing the frequency and abundance of bear sightings. Nevertheless, for those on a tight budget or who prefer to avoid air travel, this remains a viable choice.
Examples of such road-accessible locations include Kenai and Russian Rivers on the Kenai Peninsula, as well as the Chilkat River near Haines.
Lodge-Based Photo Tour: In this type of tour, participants fly into a lodge where they spend the night and go on hikes to observe bears. While this approach offers a nice way to witness the bears, it comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks.
Pros: The convenience of staying in one location, often with excellent meals and hospitality services provided by most lodges.
Cons: If the bears are not in close proximity, participants may find themselves engaging in strenuous hikes while carrying heavy photography equipment. Some lodges provide ATVs that can transport individuals to bear locations, potentially minimizing the need for extensive walking. However, the reliability of this method is not guaranteed. Bear sightings can vary from year to year, influenced by factors such as the timing of the salmon migration. Many photo tours and workshops opt for this option due to its cost-effectiveness compared to boat or plane-based tours. Another consideration is the potential lack of variety, as photographers might capture images of the same bear groups against similar backgrounds for multiple days.
Example: Some lodges in Lake Clark National Park follow this lodge-based photo tour approach
Plane Based: Day Tour: Numerous plane companies operate flights from locations like Homer, a picturesque coastal town in Alaska. The journey from Anchorage to Homer is a 1-hour flight or a 6-hour drive. From Homer, an extended float plane flight, lasting approximately an hour, is required to reach the bear-viewing locations.
Pros: This option is ideal for those with limited time, providing a quick opportunity to spend time observing bears. It suits casual photographers seeking just a few bear pictures.
Cons: The substantial time spent flying to the bear sites leaves minimal time for actual bear photography. Additionally, the cost is relatively high considering the brief duration spent with the bears. Many tour companies opt for half-day tours, allowing guides or pilots to conduct two trips per day.
Plane Based Tour (Overnight): This style of tour offers a diverse experience by providing accommodation in a central location while facilitating flights to different bear-viewing spots. This approach allows participants to explore multiple locations and quickly travel to areas where bear activity is prominent. For instance, one day might involve observing bears fishing for salmon, while another day presents the opportunity to witness a bear engaging in clamming along the coast or fishing atop a waterfall. The advantage here is the flexibility to switch locations if one proves to be less active. When opting for a flight to the bears, it's crucial to ensure that an experienced bush pilot is leading the group.
Pros: The journey between locations offers breathtaking scenery, and some lodges are strategically situated, allowing for quick access to some of the world's best bear-viewing spots with short flights.
Cons: Adverse weather conditions, a common occurrence, can lead to flight delays or cancellations. Plane-based tours tend to be more expensive than alternative options. Since small planes lack radar and operate under Visual Flight Rules (VFR), clear weather conditions are essential. In the event of fog or adverse weather, spending the night at the bear-viewing location might become necessary.
Boat Based Tours: Katmai Coast: This entails flying to a boat and spending the night on board, followed by venturing ashore to reach the bear habitats. The proximity to the bears can range from close encounters to traversing soft sand and tundra for a few miles.
Pros: This method offers a fantastic opportunity to observe bears in their natural environment. Along the Katmai Coast, you'll encounter breathtaking scenery featuring glaciers, mountains, wildflowers, and rivers. The abundance of foreground and background options enhances the photographic experience.
Cons: Individuals prone to seasickness may want to reconsider this option. While a boat-based tour provides more variety compared to a lodge-based one, it falls slightly short of the diversity offered by plane-based tours. Adverse weather conditions, a potential challenge for any bear trip, can also affect the experience.
