Redoubt Bay Lodge

For prime bear viewing and the opportunity for a remote Alaskan wilderness experience, little beats a stay at Redoubt Bay Lodge. Located in Lake Clark National Park, on the shores of Crescent Lake, one of a chain of lakes known as Big River Lakes, this classic nature lodge nestles amid the majestic beauty of the Chigmit Mountains. The area is home to a large bear population who come to fish in the waters for salmon. While the bears are the star of the show, guests can also enjoy a range of outdoor adventure activities led by experienced naturalist guides.

The lodge is 70-miles southwest of Anchorage and is reached via a glorious 50-minute floatplane flight, offering wonderful views of the Cook Inlet and the Kenai Peninsula. Family-owned and operated, this rustic lodge is composed of a timber built main building and three log cabins. The main lodge was once a historic hunting cabin and now houses the dining room, small library, and a selection of games for guests to enjoy. There is also a large deck and bar area.

Each lodge offers flexible accommodation and can be configured to suit most family requirements. Lakeside Cabin sleeps up to seven guests in two bedrooms. The small lounge is heated by a woodstove and there is a shared bathroom and private deck. For smaller groups, Trailside and Hillside Cabins have an open-plan one room design, with a Queen bed and Twin bed, heated by woodstove, along with a private bathroom and deck.

All meals are included and prepared at the lodge and dining is a communal affair. Fresh local ingredients are used where possible by the accomplished chefs, known for serving up delicious Alaskan fare. Please note there is only limited Wi-Fi available in the Main Lodge.

Activities here are focused on the wildlife, with the black and brown bears taking center stage. All bear watching tours are guided by experienced naturalists and other activities on offer include sport fishing, hiking, kayaking, and boating on the lakes. The optimum time to visit is from mid-June to the end of August when the bears come to fish during the salmon run.

The lodge can only be accessed by a 50-minute floatplane trip from Anchorage. The flight takes in superb views of the Cook Inlet and the western side of the Kenai Peninsula.