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BROOKS FALLS

PHOTOS AND STORY BY THERESA BIELAWSKI

Fast-forward to 2012/2013, when my job territory was expanded to
include Alaska. While planning my work schedule, I incorporated some
personal time to accomplish my life-long dream of seeing the bears of
Brooks Falls.

I had not been much of a traveler at that point in my life, but that July
trip would change everything. On the flight over, I found myself filled
with so many different emotions. Happiness, disbelief, and maybe even
a little bit of fear of the unknown filled my head. Landing on the waters
of Naknek Lake and seeing several bears in the distance was the start of
an excitement inside of me that has not diminished since. I must confess
I was a bit hesitant, partially due to the fact that I was traveling alone,
although I was always in the company of other visitors. Stepping off the
plane, every person was required to go directly into bear school. This
requirement still holds true today, whether it be your first visit or your
tenth visit. It is a necessity that gives you all the information you need to
stay safe in Katmai National Park, especially in the likely event that you
may encounter a resident grizzly bear closer than you would like.

When I was four or five years old, my mom took me to see Disney’s King of
the Grizzlies movie at a theater. The touching story about the life of a grizzly
bear resonated deep within my heart and bears, especially grizzlies, became
my favorite animal from that day forward. Throughout my life, I remember
watching many television shows about bears and always dreamed of a trip to
Alaska, especially to see these great bears in their natural habitat. Visiting a
place called Brooks Falls in Katmai National Park was on the top of my bucket
list, but I never completely believed it would ever become a reality.

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