Apply For 2026 McNeil River Bear Viewing Lottery Opportunity

The following is courtesy of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game:

Don’t miss your chance at Incredible Bear Viewing in 2026!

Are you looking for an unforgettable adventure this summer? If so, applications are now being accepted to enter for a chance to go bear viewing at the world-renowned McNeil River State Game Sanctuary.

Located 100 air miles west of Homer, McNeil River hosts the world’s largest gathering of brown bears as they come to feed on migrating salmon. From June 7th through August 25th, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game provides the opportunity for a limited number of people to spend four days in the sanctuary to witness this wildlife spectacle as part of a guided bear viewing program.

Visiting the sanctuary requires a permit issued by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game available through a lottery system. Online lottery applications for this summer must be submitted by midnight on March 1st through the department’s online store. A nonrefundable application fee of $30 per person is required. Lottery results are released in mid-March and winners are offered the opportunity to purchase permits. Fees for Guided Viewing Permits are $225 for Alaska residents and $525 for nonresidents.

For information on the McNeil River bear viewing program and application process, visit the McNeil River State Game Sanctuary website or contact Lands and Refuges Manager Adam DuBour at 267-2189 or adam.dubour@alaska.gov