Nature & Science

Flora and Fauna

A full compliment of subarctic fish, wildlife,and plant species make their homes in Lake Clark National Park and Preserve's various ecosystems. Salmon pass through tidal estuaries on their way to spawning grounds in mountain lakes and streams, chased by hungry seals and brown bears. Dall sheep share treacherous mountain slopes with delicate alpine wildflowers. Once-endangered peregrine falcons occupy eyries on cliffs where they can easily hunt migrating and nesting waterfowl. Follow the links below to explore the plants and animals of the park and preserve.

 
close up photo of a pink fireweed flower with a bee on it.
Plants

795 vascular plant species grow in Lake Clark alongside many other species of lichens, fungi, mosses, and liverworts.

photo of a spotted wild cat called a lynx standing in a forest looking at the photographer.
Animals

Lynx and eagles and bears; oh my! Lake Clark's intact ecosystems support a full complement of sub-arctic fish and wildlife species.

 
 

Dynamic Environment

Lake Clark National Park and Preserve is a place where natural processes dominate. Four of the five biotic communities found in Alaska - coastal, lakes/rivers/wetlands, tundra, and boreal forest - exist in the park. Two active volcanoes - Mount Iliamna and Mount Redoubt - tower above the landscape. Glaciers wind their way down into valleys where the Alaska and Aleutian ranges join. Follow the links below to explore the ecology of the park and preserve.

 
Black and white photo of the night sky showing stars and the silhouette of a mountain.
Environmental Factors

Discover environmental issues that can impact the park, including air, light, or water pollution, non-native species, & geologic processes.

photo of a glaciated volcano with alpine tundra and a river valley in the foreground.
Natural Features and Ecosystems

Explore Lake Clark's volcanoes, mountains, glaciers, forests, fossils, and other natural features and ecosystems.

photo of a fire burning in an evergreen forest of spruce trees.
Wildland Fire

Natural wildland fire can burn in Lake Clark on occasion and when conditions are right.

Last updated: January 19, 2022

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

240 West 5th Avenue
Suite 236

Anchorage, AK 99501

Phone:

907 644-3626

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