Wildlife Viewing
Watch the legendary Kodiak Brown Bears as they cruise the beaches or fish for salmon along the creeks, while majestic Bald Eagles dive and soar along the cliff sides. Puffins are a popular fan favorite– on a nearby rockface they can be seen nesting in late May through the end of August. Playful sea otters are a common sight, cracking open clams or swimming in the bays with their young perched atop.
Experience Orca Whales in the wild as they travel and hunt in pods. Humpbacks, Finbacks, and Minke whales can be seen breaching, tail slapping, and diving during their migration from June through the end of August. Porpoises dart and race alongside our boats. These are a few of the examples of enchanting wildlife that thrives on Afognak.
We are located within Afognak Island State Park, which was established to preserve the natural habitat and keep it pristine and is one of the more remote Alaska Wilderness Lodges. Mountains, dense old-growth Spruce forest, fjords, grasslands, and the many streams and lakes create a sanctuary for populations of fish and wildlife. We have hosted numerous international filming crews who were eager to capture the unique tapestry of natural wonders and wildlife that grace this area.
We offer special opportunities to observe wildlife, whether from the boat or with the opportunity to disembark for guided nature walks and the chance to see bears up close during the appropriate season, all while soaking in the breathtaking scenery.
Even around the lodge, it is common to spot eagles in the surrounding Spruce trees, sea otters cruising the channel along your cabin, curious foxes, and Sitka blacktail deer walking through.
Land and Sea Animals
Sea Mammals
Sea lions, Seal, Sea Otter, Orcas, Grey Whales, Humpbacks, Finbacks, Minke, Porpoises
Land Mammals
Kodiak brown bear, Roosevelt elk, Sitka black tail deer, Land Otter, Beaver, Fox, Marten and Ermin/Weasel
Birds
Bald Eagles, Hawks, Magpies, Crows, Ravens, Snipes, Oyster Catchers, Varied Thrushes, Woodpeckers, Kingfishers, Water Ouzels
Sea Birds
Tufted and Horned Puffins, Cormorants, Auklets, Murres, Loons, Petrels, Shearwaters and various Sea Gulls, Terns
Ducks
Harlequin duck, Barrow’s goldeneye, Bufflehead, Black wing scoter, White wing scoter, Long tail duck, Red breasted merganser, Mallard, Pintail, Green winged teal, American widgeon, Common eider, King eider
One of the highlights of our wilderness vacations is the variety they offer. Whether you prefer observing from the boat or exploring on foot, there's ample room for both, ensuring you experience the best of both worlds.
Our boats are designed with a full walk-around deck, so everyone has room to observe the surrounding wildlife or has room for wildlife photography.
Our catamarans also feature a landing craft bow gate, allowing you to disembark and easily explore different areas of the shoreline on Afognak Island.
For more information on our boats check out our fleet.
Featured Excursions
Kodiak Brown Bear Viewing
Experience unforgettable bear viewing opportunities throughout the summer. Join us on a ½-mile hike along the Waterfall trail, where you'll follow a river boasting a pink salmon run, perfect for observing fishing bears in their natural habitat.
These Kodiak bears are also seen along the many ocean beaches as they scrounge for their next meal of Invertebrates, seaweed or beached sea-mammals. “When the tide is out, the table is set.”
Led by experienced guides, this up-close and personal experience promises unique encounters with these magnificent creatures. While bear sightings cannot be guaranteed, the scenic beauty of the hike, surrounded by flourishing flora and fauna, ensures a memorable excursion.
Sea Lions
Just a half-hour boat trip from the lodge lies a nearby island with large numbers of sea lions. These creatures are entertaining to watch as they roar and play on the rocky island. Female sea lions typically weigh between 530-700 pounds, while their male counterparts tip the scales closer to 1,200 pounds at full maturity. You’ll also have the opportunity to witness the adorable sight of their pups, adding another layer of charm to this unforgettable experience.
This is truly an unforgettable experience to cherish and share with loved ones.
Island Excursions
Explore a nearby island, where you can stroll along the pristine beaches and hike amidst blooming wildflowers in June and July. Discover secluded cliff sides on an island that few have been lucky to experience. The vista’s will leave you in awe.
Some of the vibrant wildflowers that paint the landscape on nearby Russian Island in the summer are Fireweed, Pretty Shooting Star, Beach Pea, Butterwort, Beachhead Iris and Bluebell-of-Scotland. Witness these blooms against the picturesque backdrop of the sea.
Wildlife Photography
For wildlife photographers, professional and amateur alike, as well as film crews the surrounding areas represent a photographer’s dream. Outstanding opportunities to see wildlife and a beautiful environment in which to artistically capture them.
Guests have often included international filming crews drawn to the rich diversity and abundance of wildlife in this region. The Afognak Island State Park was established to preserve this delightful picturesque natural setting.
Fly-Out Katmai Experience
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our Fly-Out Katmai Tour add-on. While we offer bear viewing opportunities around us, for an up-close-and-personal view in their natural habitat, Katmai is a great complement to your stay at Afognak Wilderness Lodge. Delve into the heart of Katmai National Park for a 2-hour bear-hike experience, complementing your stay at Afognak Island State Park. Witness Kodiak Bears in their natural habitat under the guidance of a professional guide, ensuring both safety and respect for these majestic creatures.
Leave the logistics to us – simply inquire about our one-day flyout to Katmai and ask for details on this adventurous add-on!
Trip requires a minimum of 3 guests
Wildlife Photos
“Words and pictures cannot describe this place nor the experiences it has to offer... We’ll never forget this place.”
— Dan and Rachel Parnow, California