OK, many of you have asked to see my "bear" shots. Thanks for being consistent. I will try to get a couple posted before my trip to Death Valley. Here is the first one!
Meet an amazingly photogenic Brown Bear (Ursus arctos horribilis) named Dusty by the staff at McNeil River State Game Sanctuary and Refuge in southwestern Alaska. The sanctuary has run a lottery system for bear viewers since 1967, allowing a very limited number of guided guests access to witness natural bear behavior during salmon season. Bruce and I were lucky enough to draw tags for a four day period August 2008. We spent those days hiking through mud flats, across tundra, in rain and overcast skies to places like Mikfit Creek, Enders Island and McNeil River Falls. It was SPECTACULAR! A photographers dream to be so close these magnificent creatures.
To learn more about McNeil River State Game Sanctuary visit http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=mcneilriver.main. And if you plan to apply for the chance to visit, you better get started. I have heard that some have waited several years before getting drawn. The application can be found at the website, due March 1st each year, and costs $25.00 per person just for the chance to get drawn. If you are lucky enough, there is a resident and non-resident fee system you will need to fund along with organizing transportation, camping arrangements, supplies and photo gear to take along with you. Weather plays an important part when flying in Alaska and McNeil River can only be accessed by float plane at low tide. Expect to pay more for over weight baggage. Food, photo gear, camping necessities and an array of clothing you can layer adds up fast.
Don't be discouraged. This trip is so worth it! Make sure to do your homework and read up on the location before you go. If you would like to know more about our experience there, just drop me a line or give a ring. I would be glad to reminisce and share many more details about our adventures in Alaska!
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