Journal Journeys: Wild Alaska
May 25th, 2009 by wwftravel
(c) Zegrahm Expeditions
Longtime expedition leader Jack S. Grove traveled to Katmai National Park and Preserve on a departure of our Wild Alaska tour. Here’s what he wrote about the tucked-away Geographic Harbor in his travel journal:
“Geographic Harbor is nearly hidden at the far reaches of Amalik Bay, and surrounded by magnificent volcanic scenery and steep cliffs of andesite. We were welcomed by bald eagles, pigeon guillemots and otters as we entered the narrow channel leading into this picturesque embayment. For most of us, today’s encounters with brown bears were the most dramatic and exciting moments of the trip. This was the final day of the expedition and it was spectacular.
“This natural harbor is one of the best places in the world to observe brown bears in the wild. We saw more than two dozen bears; most were observed digging for clams. We were able to watch as they cracked open the shells and slurped down the soft innards.
“Our visit coincided with the low tide for optimal viewing of the feeding bears. We saw massive 1,000-pound boars as well as several sows with cubs. One of the Zodiacs watched a mother and cub dog-paddling between an islet and the mainland. None of the bears was agitated by our presence—probably because they are protected in this area and few tourists are able to visit them.
“All of this excitement was set amid mountains, waterfalls, misty clouds, and forested islets; the scene was ethereal—a perfect way to end a marvelous journey.”
Learn about future WWF Alaska tours.
