Katmai National Park - Bucketlisted

Katmai National Park

The Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes

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Where the Star-Spangled Banner was born: a compact fort with sweeping harbor views and living history. It’s an easy win—flat paths, open lawns, and a visitor film that sets the scene in under 15 minutes.

Start at the visitor center for your map, then follow the ramp to the east wall for the best harbor vantage. Time your visit for a flag raising or lowering—the ranger talk turns the place into a story you’ll remember.

For a slower visit, circle the star-shaped ramparts clockwise and watch ships move in and out of the Patapsco.

What’s new? Updated today

Sunset flag lowering 6:30pm (Fri–Sun)
Temporary exhibit: War of 1812
Harbor shuttle every 20 minutes

What are the hours? — 9:00–17:00 (daily)

Hours may vary for holidays and special events; check the official site before you go.

How much does it cost? — $15 adults · kids free

Admission covers the fort and visitor center exhibits; special tours may be extra.

Where do I park? — On-site lot + overflow

Lots can fill on weekends by mid-day; arrive early or consider rideshare.

Is it accessible? — Flat paths; accessible restrooms

Most ramparts have graded access; some historic areas may have uneven surfaces.

Arrive 30 min before sunset for the lowering ceremony and best light.
Wind picks up on the ramparts—bring a light jacket even in summer.
Stroller route: enter via visitor center, ramp to east wall loop.

Today, Katmai National Park is best known for the iconic Brooks Falls where grizzly bears hunt for spawning salmon as they swim upstream. It’s the best place in the world to see these beasts in action but it’s not the primary reason that Katmai became a National Park.

In 1912, two Alaskan volcanoes – Mount Katmai and Novarupta – erupted simultaneously, covering a nearby valley in 300 feet of ash (in depth) as the summit of Kamai collapsed into a caldera. The constant flow of steam as the valley cooled gave way to a nickname: the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes. Katmai was initially designated a national park to protect the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, then thought to be a permanent feature.

The steam has since subsided and Novarupta (not Katmai) is now thought to be the primary force of the eruption, but the name persists and the park has expanded to cover and protect this ideal habitat where thousands of grizzly bears hunt spawning salmon. It can only be reached by boat or plane, but upon visiting Katmai, you’ll witness things you’ll see nowhere else on earth.

USA > Alaska

Nature, Parks

NPS