Fly Katmai – Brooks Falls Bear Viewing Tour FAQ

Planning your day trip to Katmai National Park and Brooks Falls? Below you’ll find answers to the most common questions about our bear viewing tours, flights, and travel logistics.

If you don’t see your question here, please don’t hesitate to contact us — our team is happy to help.

Trip Overview & Booking

What’s included in the Brooks Falls Bear Viewing Tour?

Your Fly Katmai day tour includes round-trip air travel, National Park Service fees, and a delicious buffet lunch at Brooks Lodge.

Each flight offers incredible views of Alaska’s volcanoes, coastlines, and wilderness on the way to Brooks Falls.

For the most current pricing and seasonal details, please visit our Booking Page.

How far in advance should I book?

We recommend booking as soon as your travel plans are confirmed.

Peak dates during the height of bear viewing season can fill up up to six months in advance, so early reservations are strongly encouraged.

When is the best time to see bears at Brooks Falls?

Bear activity at Brooks Falls changes throughout the summer and fall.

Typically, the highest concentrations of brown bears are seen in July, when salmon runs peak, and again from late August through mid-October.

Keep in mind that July also tends to be the busiest time for visitors.

For up-to-date seasonal details, check our Booking Page.

How do I book my tour?

You can view availability and secure your seat directly through our online booking tool.

If you’d prefer to speak with our team, call us at (907) 243-2376 or email info@anchorageaero.com.

Do you require a deposit or full payment at booking?

Full payment is required at the time of booking to confirm your reservation.

Flights & Logistics

How does the two-leg flight option work (via King Salmon)?

Some tours travel first to King Salmon, then transfer to a floatplane for the short flight to Brooks Camp.

This route allows guests to experience both an aircraft landing on a runway and a floatplane landing on water.

King Salmon also has rich history — originally the Naknek Air Base built during WWII, it became a Cold War radar site and today serves as a small commercial fishing town and hub for visitors to Katmai National Park.

Where does the tour depart from?

All Fly Katmai tours depart from the Lake Hood Seaplane Base in Anchorage, located right next to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport.

Is transportation provided to Lake Hood?

Transportation to and from Lake Hood is not provided.

Guests are responsible for arranging their own transport.

We’re conveniently located less than 5 minutes by car — or about a 10- to 15-minute walk — from the main airport terminal.

What if my flight is delayed due to weather?

Alaska’s weather can change quickly. If your trip is affected by weather, you’ll have the option to reschedule for another available day or receive a full refund.

We’ll work closely with you to make sure your experience is flexible and fair.

What should I pack for the trip?

We recommend dressing in layers and bringing:

A rain jacket or waterproof shell
Comfortable walking shoes
Water and a light snack (lunch is provided)
A camera or binoculars
Bluetooth headphones for optional in-flight audio

Space on the aircraft is limited, so keep your bag small and light.

Are there luggage storage options if I’m traveling with larger bags?

Yes — guests can store luggage at our facility in Anchorage while on their tour.

Please let our staff know ahead of time if you’ll need to leave items with us.

At Brooks Falls

How much walking is required?

Expect about 1.3–1.5 miles of walking on a mix of dirt trails and wooden boardwalks between the main lodge and the viewing platforms.

Is Brooks Falls wheelchair accessible?

Accessibility at Brooks Falls is limited, but some areas are reachable depending on mobility needs.

Please contact us before booking so we can help determine the best options.

Do I need bear spray?

No — you do not need to bring bear spray.

The park rangers and Fly Katmai team provide all safety briefings and guidelines necessary for a secure experience.

What safety measures are in place for bear viewing?

Before exploring, the National Park Service provides a safety orientation at Brooks Camp.

In general:

Stay aware of your surroundings.
Make noise and keep your eyes open on the trails.
Remember, most bears are accustomed to people — it’s possible to walk close to one unexpectedly if you’re not paying attention.

Always follow ranger instructions and posted safety signs during your visit.

Are there bathrooms and facilities at Brooks Camp?

Yes. Brooks Camp offers restrooms and other basic visitor facilities for your convenience.

What if bear viewing is limited the day I visit?

In the rare event that bear viewing is limited due to conditions at Brooks Falls, Fly Katmai may offer alternate bear viewing locations within the park, determined on the day of your tour.

Meals & Dietary Needs

What kind of lunch is included?

A buffet-style lunch is served at Brooks Lodge and includes a variety of hot and cold options.

Are there vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options?

Yes. The buffet typically includes options suitable for most dietary preferences.
If you have specific allergies or restrictions, please contact us before your flight.

Policies & Insurance

What is your cancellation policy?

Our full cancellation and refund policy is outlined on the Katmai Tour Page.

In summary, weather cancellations are fully refunded, while other cancellations follow a tiered schedule based on how far in advance notice is given.

We strongly recommend purchasing trip insurance for full coverage.

Are gratuities included?

Gratuities are not included in your tour price.

Tipping is entirely optional but greatly appreciated by our pilots and support staff.

Still Have Questions?

Our team is happy to help with custom requests, group travel, or special accommodations.
📞 (907) 243-2376
📧 info@anchorageaero.com

Or explore more about the Brooks Falls experience on our
👉 Katmai Tour Page