For many people, a trip to Kodiak Island means the possibility of seeing the great Kodiak Bear. Because Kodiak Bears are elusive by nature, these bears cannot be expected to appear on demand. Successful viewing will be enhanced by enlisting the services of a local bear viewing tour operator. Available bear viewing programs include a multi-day stay at a remote wilderness lodge or a day trip with a local air or boat charter service. Remote public use cabins are also available through State Parks and the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge.

There are no roads to the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge. Six outlying Native villages and many remote lodges and refuge cabins are accessed by small plane. Additionally, charter boat operators offer trips around Kodiak Island waters. Care should be taken in selecting an operator and negotiating terms of the trip.

Bears are generally in their dens and unavailable for viewing from approximately December through April. After emerging from dens in the spring, most bears favor the high country, where they generally remain well spread out. Some bears may approach the coast at this time, but by and large, late spring is still a bit early to expect to view bears. As early as late May, local bear viewing operators receive bear viewing groups to observe and photograph bears and countless other mammal and bird species.

Beginning in mid-June, bears begin to move to salmon streams. Salmon runs are ubiquitous on Kodiak, and the timing of the local fish run in large part determines when bears can be seen fishing for one of 5 local salmon species. It is possible to view bears as late as the end of September. These majestic animals are always fascinating to observe and are indeed Kodiak Island's most regal landlord.