2023 Vacation Planner - Flipbook - Page 11
Denali is well known as THE
place to have a chance at
seeing the “Big 5” all in one
place – bears, Dahl sheep,
wolves, moose and caribou.
But the truth is, in Alaska,
you can see wildlife almost
anywhere – even our cities!
Here are some tips to help you
be prepared while exploring
our state.
HIKING
Pack layers! Weather can change
significantly over the course of
a day. Making sure you have a
pack with a rain layer, and a few
other options will ensure you’ll
stay warm and dry through the
end of your day.
Make noise! Animals, in general,
will avoid humans when given
the choice. Making noise,
especially around running water,
that might mask your approach,
gives them a chance to prevent an
encounter. If you do see an animal,
be prepared.
yourself big by waving your
hands in the air, or standing
together in a group. Talk loudly
and slowly back out of the
area. Many people feel more
comfortable carrying bear spray
while recreating. It is widely
available at Alaskan grocery,
outfitting and hardware stores.
CAMPING
MOOSE: While usually tolerant
of humans at a distance it is wise
to remember moose injure more
Alaskan’s per year than bears.
Their long legs allow them to run
at fast speeds, and cow moose
will fiercely protect their babies.
If you are charged by a moose,
RUN! Once they determine you are
no longer a threat, they will likely
abandon the chase.
BEARS: NEVER run from a bear.
If you do encounter a bear on your
adventures, the most important
factor is to remain calm. Make
Food storage is important, and
not just for bears. So always
store food appropriately, clean
up your picnic area and pack
out your trash.
If camping in a car or RV, make
sure all food and coolers are
inside when you aren’t using
them. If tent camping, it is
recommended to store food in
a bear-proof container some
distance from your tent site,
please ensure proper storage
to prevent potentially deadly
wildlife encounters.
VIEWING TIPS
Safety first! You will very likely see wildlife from the highway at some point. Please follow these rules to
keep everyone safe.
Don’t slam on your brakes! Other travelers with large vehicles might not be able to stop. Pull to the
side of the road gradually and turn around if needed.
Pull your vehicle completely to the side of the road. Many Alaskan roads are 2 lanes, and once one
car stops to view a moose, more will follow! Vehicles that are not completely out of the roadway
cause significant safety issues for other road travelers.
Be careful exiting your vehicle. Those exiting on the side of the car with traffic need to wait for
approaching vehicles to pass.
Do not approach the animals! Take photos from inside or next to your vehicle..
EXPLORE
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