Hi everyone, It is time to start planning my trip to Alaska and one portion that I have questions about is Brooks Lodge at Katmai. Here is my list of questions:
1. Is the end of July(27,28,29,30) too late for great bear photography at the falls? I know this is subjective, but generally speaking?
2. Does anyone have experience with, or suggestions about, a tour company where you can spend 2 or 3 nights in the Katmai Lodge?
3. Anyone familiar with Northern Lights Tours or Go Alaska?
4. If I can't get a reservation at the lodge for next mid July, how is the campground? (We are experienced campers)
We are hoping to find a package deal for 3 adults with air and lodging at Katmai Lodge for 2 or 3 nights, but we don't require the use of a guide. Thanks in advance for your replies.

Correction: instead of Katmai Lodge make that Brooks Lodge.

Sorry about that.

Anybody out there know of these tour companies? I could really use some feedback so I am popping this to the top...thanks.

Are you really so heavy into the bears to sign up for such a $$$ 3 day thing? We went for a day trip w/hallobay - you can check out their web site hallobay.com for $375/day ... they also have a camp and are very hoity toity don't disturb the bears type of an outfit in Katmai

Money is not an issue, and yes, I am that "into the bears". Do you actually have any info on the tour companies I am asking about?

Hi,
I'm also considering booking with Go Alaska, but can't find any information about them other than what I read on their website. I spoke with a woman there, Brigitte, and she seems knowledgeable. Have you decided on booking with them. I don't like the idea that they don't accept credit cards. You have to go through pay pal. Let me know what you decide.

If you are so much into bears (as my husband and I also are), then you should look into Hallo Bay...these guys are fantastic! We spent 8 nights at Hallo Bay this Sept and it was one of the very best wildlife experiences we have every had...and we are both professional wildlife biologists and wildlife photographers...with a lot of wildlife adventures in our background. At Hallo Bay you are on the ground with the bears, at very close range, with guides who have the utmost respect and admiration for the animals. It is just such an awesome experience...and on the Katmai coastline, with incredibly beautiful scenery. Do check out their website...www.hallobay.com and feel free to email me with additional questions... [email protected]

Jacquie, Hi. I went ahead and booked with them through paypal, hopefully everything is fine. They have been very helpful with my questions and were prompt about sending me emails and confirmations(brigitte helped us too)

lromin, thanks so much for the great info! I will check out that site, sounds like a wonderful experience. Do you have a website where I could see your photos? I would love to see them. Thanks again for the great advice!

Iromin, I have the same question. Do you have a website where I could see your photos of bears? I would love to see them.