As our four-passenger plane prepared to land on a gravely shoreline in Lake Clark National Park, one of the most remote national parks in the United States, accessible only by plane or boat, my excitement grew. Though the flight was scenic and provided a terrific perspective of the vast expanse of this part of Southcentral Alaska, my fellow passengers and I had one thing on our mind — bears!

PHOTO: © JODYO. PHOTOS
Our flight was part of a Lake Clark National Park Bear Viewing daytrip from Anchorage with Rust’s Flying Service — and view bears we did. Our guide met us at the plane upon arrival, and we took off to find the coastal brown bears — or grizzly bears — foraging for clams along the shoreline. It didn’t take long for us to spot our first bears, digging their giant paws into the low tide to find a late breakfast. After a while, the two bears lumbered off into a pasture for a bit of repose. Once they left, we walked down the beach and spied a young bear perched on an outcropping, as interested in watching us as we him. During our time in the park, we saw perhaps a dozen or so bears, going about their day without paying us any mind at all. What a thrill!
In addition to taking flight, visitors will find plenty of land- and water-based tour opportunities from Anchorage. One option is to board the Alaska Railroad and travel north or south for a day-long excursion. If traveling north, ride the train to the small town of Talkeetna and take a jetboat adventure; you may even peep Denali — the highest mountain peak in North America — en route.
For an Alaskan backcountry adventure, hop off the train at the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop and join a guide for a nature walk, go ice climbing or raft on a glacial river. When your outing is over, wait beside the tracks; wave down the train as it approaches and it will stop and pick you up to take you back to Anchorage.
Or travel south by train or car to Seward for a full day of discovery. Arrive in the coastal town and depart on a cruise that will take you into Resurrection Bay and Kenai Fjords National Park. There you’ll glide past glaciers and likely spot whales, seals, puffins and other wildlife along the way.
However you choose to explore Southcentral Alaska, Anchorage serves as a terrific starting point.
Read This Next

Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDecember 2023
Dec 5, 2023Stylish Slice: Linger Awhile in Tokyo’s Tiny, Laid-Back Daikanyama
Think of Tokyo and your mind may wander to the neon signs and bustling crowds of Shibuya and Shinjuku, or the tranquility of the Meiji Jingu shrine, but this huge city offers much to those who explore away from the main tourist areas.
Sponsored Content
Why Buy Trip Cancellation Insurance?
Don’t risk losing all the money you’ve spent if you must cancel your trip at the last minute. Allianz Travel Insurance can give you:
Daily
Dec 5, 20234 Car-Focused Destinations to Drive the Imagination
Automotive museums of all sizes will always capture the imaginations of car and racing aficionados. However, the best deliver a lot of substance beyond the machine itself. Some place an emphasis on science and technology or history, while others display iconic cars from film and television. Museums established and operated by the world’s top automakers (think Mercedes, BMW, Audi and Porsche in Germany, and Toyota, Honda and Nissan in Japan) have built-in followings.
Daily
Dec 5, 2023Pullman Hotel and Conference Center Opens in Sydney’s Penrith Suburb
Accor hotel group’s new 153-room Pullman Sydney Penrith property, part of Western Sydney Conference Centre, opened in August 2023, and features Penrith's first 5-star hotel; a spacious conference and events space; a wellness and fitness center; and the upscale, European-inspired Marcel Bar and Bistro.
Sponsored Content
Why Buy Annual Travel Insurance?
One affordable plan can protect an entire year of trips: business or pleasure, short or long, domestic or international.
Daily
Dec 5, 2023There’s More Than One Reason to Make Denmark Your Must-Visit Destination for 2024
A country already renowned for its rich cultural heritage and ever-growing culinary scene, Denmark holds much in store for travelers and locals alike in 2024. From new flights further connecting the country with the United States to culinary events to the unveiling of iconic buildings, here’s what to expect in 2024:
Daily
Dec 4, 2023Stocking Stuffers for Your Favorite Vagabonds
Looking for fun things to stuff into the toe of a few holiday stockings? Here are some great choices:
Sponsored Content
Hit the High Notes in Nashville
Nashville’s once-modest skyline continues to evolve as its luxury market grows. Lavish hotel properties are added to the landscape while acclaimed chefs stake claim in the robust culinary scene and premier cultural offerings round out the city’s repertoire.
Destinations / North America
Dec 4, 20236 U.S. Christmas Markets to See on Your Travels
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through these U.S. Christmas markets with us.
ShareThis