Becharof
King Salmon, AK 99613
Plan Your Visit
Becharof National Wildlife Refuge is a diverse and beautiful place that includes the largest lake in the National Wildlife Refuge system, an active volcano, unusual geological features, historically significant landmarks, and a federally-designated wilderness. From the windswept Pacific coast to the rugged peaks of the Kejulik Mountains and iconic Mt. Peulik volcano, the scenery is magnificent. Becharof Lake nurtures one of Bristol Bay’s largest sockeye salmon runs, part of the foundation for the regional economy. Wildlife is easily viewed, whether by plane, from the banks of a salmon stream, or hiking the ancient Kanatak Trail.
Refuge lands are remote and accessible only by small aircraft, boat, or rugged cross country hiking. There are no roads or maintained trails and help can be hours or even days away if something goes wrong. Please prepare accordingly. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the essentials for travelling in Alaska's bear country.
Hiking The Kanatak Trail
The Kanatak Trail is an historic route used for centuries to cross between the Pacific Ocean and Bristol Bay via Becharof Lake. Unlike trails near urban centers, this unique route is in a remote and primitive natural setting. No road leads here and hikers are unlikely to see other people on the trail. Learn more.
Activities
Services
The King Salmon Visitor Center provides information and educational services highlighting the natural and cultural resources and recreation opportunities on the Alaska Peninsula, including Becharof and Alaska Peninsula National Wildlife Refuges. This visitor center is operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in conjunction with the National Park Service, Bristol Bay Borough, and Lake and Peninsula Borough. Alaska Geographic supplies the bookstore, which raises funds for outreach and education.
About
Established in 1980, Becharof National Wildlife Refuge is located in the Aleutian Range of the Alaska Peninsula and contains the largest lake in the National Wildlife Refuge System. The refuge features a diverse landscape including the active Mt. Peulik volcano, the Becharof Wilderness, and the historic Kanatak National Recreation Trail. It preserves a rich legacy ranging from Jurassic-period fossils to prehistoric cultural sites and early 20th-century oil exploration history.
Learn more about:
Conservation in Color: Alaska's Wildlife
