Katmai National Park FAQs

Find out all you need to know about visiting Katmai National Park.

When is the best time to visit Katmai National Park?

The best time to visit Katmai National Park is between mid-May and mid-September with the warmest weather and longest days. Temperatures range 10-18°C and July is usually the warmest month. June to September is also the best time for watching wildlife including bears and whales, and July is the best month for the bear salmon run. Winters (November-March) are long, dark and cold, ranging from zero down to -10°C. Spring (April-May) ranges from cold to mild with regular rain, while Autumn (September-October) is the wettest period with temperatures dropping from 10°C towards zero. Mid-August to mid-September is the best time to enjoy the Fall colours, while August to April is the best time to see the Northern Lights with the clearest visibility in the winter months.

What is the time difference between the UK and Katmai National Park?

Katmai National Park is in Alaska Standard time (GMT – 9) and observes Alaska Daylight Time (GMT – 8) March to November.

What places combine well with Katmai National Park?

Katmai National Park is not accessible by road so visited by boat or plane. It can be combined with the nearby Kenai Peninsula and Prince William Sound. Many visitors fly directly in from Anchorage (2-3 hours) or from Homer in Kenai.