Katmai 2018: Sub-adult Summer

Before we begin I want to reference the Bears of Brooks River 2018 reference guide. Indeed, all these bears are well-documented. So if you see me refer to them by their number, more information can be found in this reference.

This trip sort of started way back in January. January 5th 12:00 AKST to be exact. That is the precise time registration opens for the coveted Katmai Campground. It only holds 60 spots, and it seems that the whole world wants them during the month of July. Attempting to coordinate with a friend (Tim), we were set on grabbing the second week. But that date literally filled up in seconds. Almost suspiciously fast. Alas, we were pushed off our goal of visiting peak season and had to settle for the last week of July into early August. Here’s hoping that the salmon run…runs late.

Continue reading Katmai 2018: Sub-adult Summer

Yellowstone September 2 – 4: Hayden Valley to Beartooth

With a holiday weekend ahead, it’s time to head straight up to Canyon Village from work. When passing Hayden Valley, it was past 8:30 and dark, but one of the largest traffic jams I’ve seen for this time of year. Everyone was focused on the east side, towards the Wapiti rendezvous area. Looks like I have my morning spot picked out.

Continue reading Yellowstone September 2 – 4: Hayden Valley to Beartooth

Yellowstone May 20: Wapiti Wolves and Fog

It was supposed to be a relatively clear day, but Yellowstone had other plans.  Which happens a lot.  There was a decent snowstorm earlier in the week, and I think that may pushed some of the wildlife out of Hayden Valley to lower elevations.  That’s not to say there wasn’t anything to see, it just took a lot more patience.

Continue reading Yellowstone May 20: Wapiti Wolves and Fog

Yellowstone April 29 – 30: Lamar Wildlife, Tower Bears, and Canyon Snow

The days leading up to this weekend was very wintery. Thursday morning Teton Valley had several inches of snow on the ground. It’s pretty, but I’m sort of over it.

Continue reading Yellowstone April 29 – 30: Lamar Wildlife, Tower Bears, and Canyon Snow

Yellowstone July 16: Wapiti Drama

Just in the park for the a day, but it was great meeting up with people I’ve gotten to know over the last couple summers and also catching up with the latest Wapiti drama. The goal for the day was to see them interacting with the Mollies, and maybe get a picture with them all together.

Continue reading Yellowstone July 16: Wapiti Drama