RSS
Home
Off the beaten path--Alaska's spectacular Lake Clark National Park & Preserve
Print
Email
RSS
Subscribe
Photo Credit: NPS
This true wilderness area, accessible by air only, became a national park in 1980 as part of the Alaska National Interest Land Conservation Act, signed by President Jimmy Carter. Lake Clark National Park and Preserve, Alaska, covers more than four million acres of spectacular wilderness that stretch from the coastal rainforest of Cook Inlet to the tundra of the western plateau. At its heart are the Chigmit Mountains formed where the Alaska and Aleutian Ranges come together. Within this wild area of glaciers and rugged peaks, are two active volcanoes, Mount Redoubt and Mount Iliamna. The many rivers that run through the area and the turquoise lakes, including Lake Clark, offer stunning views and unsurpassed fishing opportunities. The park and preserve are home to dozens of subarctic wildlife species, ranging from bear and caribou to tundra swans and Dall sheep.
Seasons and Fees
The park is open year round. There are no fees associated with this park.
Visitor Center and Operating Hours
The Lake Clark National Park visitor center and field headquarters in Port Alsworth, a little community on the southeast shore of Lake Clark, are both staffed throughout the year. Hours for both are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (The visitor center is also open on Saturday during June, July and August.)
Location and Contact
Located approximately 150 miles southwest of Anchorage, Alaska, the park and preserve are only accessible by air. Air taxi services for the one to two hour trip are available from Anchorage, Kenai or Homer.
Visitor Center Telephone: (907) 781-2106
Field Headquarters: (907) 781-2218
Things to See & Do
In this wild and beautiful destination, the opportunities for outdoor activities seem almost endless. Visitors enjoy birdwatching, wildlife viewing, fishing, camping, backpacking, day hiking, rafting, boating, kayaking and canoeing. Other activities that may not be available in parks of the lower forty-eight include aurora borealis viewing and dog mushing. The lodges and commercial operators in the area offer charter and guide services for many of the outdoor activities.
Camping, Lodging & Dining
There are several lodges within the park. There are no restaurants in Port Alsworth or within the park and preserve. If you are not staying at a lodge, you will need to bring everything required to provide your own meals. You might be able to make arrangements for some meals from your air taxi or a lodge in the area you plan to visit.
All camping in the park is considered backcountry camping with no facilities or developed campsites. No camping or hiking permits are required.
Safety & Cautions
Since Lake Clark National Park & Preserve are true wilderness areas, visitors must learn how to stay safe and protect the environment. Visitors will want to read and understand these outdoor rules and safety regulations provided by the National Park Service.
Other Alaskan National Parks Nearby
Related Articles:
Comments
