• Autumn photo of Lake Clark and the Aleutian Range in Lake Clark National Park & Preserve

    Lake Clark

    National Park & Preserve Alaska

There are park alerts in effect.
show Alerts »

  • Kristin Creek Fire Burning in Stony River Country

    On the evening of June 18th a wildfire ignited by lightning was discovered by National Park Service volunteers. The Kristin Fire is located in the northwest corner of Lake Clark NP&P near Kristin Creek. More »

Your Safety

Dust and Waves at Telaquana Lake.
Dust and wind kicks up at Telaquana Lake.
J. Mills
 

Safety Requires Self Sufficiency and Preparation

Lake Clark is a wilderness park, exceptionally remote and isolated. For any wilderness trip, we caution that visitors and hikers must be knowledgeable and prepared. Adventures in the park demand self-sufficiency. Help may be days away.

Always leave a backcountry trip itinerary with a friend or family member who can notify the National Park Service if you are overdue. We also encourage you to leave your itinerary at our field headquarters at Port Alsworth before departing. This can make providing help easier if the National Park Service is contacted.

Be prepared for the possibility of inclement weather delaying scheduled pick-up, often by several days. Bring extra food and fuel with you.

Learn safe practices to avoid dangerous encounters with wildlife. Download the NPS Alaska region bear safety guide here, or visit Alaska State Parks bear safety page for more information. Animals in the park are not tame, even those that seem "harmless" like porcupines or moose. Resist the temptation to approach or try to feed them.

Before you head out, be familiar with the park's food storage requirements for various locations in the park. It is extremely important that bears and other wildlife be prevented from obtaining and habituating to human food and garbage. The park offers bear resistant containers for temporary use by visitors free of charge. You can pick one up at the park visitor center in Port Alsworth.

Always filter or boil your water. Waterborne contaminants such as giardia and cryptosporidium are present.

Snow is possible at any time but most likely to occur from September to June. Bring warm clothing, a sturdy tent, and an appropriate sleeping bag.

Ask in advance about river crossings and other details of your route.

If you have additional questions, rangers at the field headquarters (907-781-2218) or visitor center (907-781-2114) will be happy to assist you.

For more information on staying safe in the Alaskan wilderness, check the State of Alaska's safety site.

Did You Know?

Small, sweet nagoonberries are similar to raspberries.

Berries are an important traditional food for the Dena'ina Athabascan people of the Lake Clark region. Seven different kinds of berries are available in the summer and fall, including blueberries, cranberries, and salmonberries.