McNeil River

McNeil River is a brook in Alaska's Kenai Peninsula that originates from glacial sources in the Aleutian Range and flows toward Cook Inlet. The river's natural geography creates waterfalls where fish congregate during their seasonal movement upstream.

The river's sanctuary was established by Alaska's legislature in 1967 as a protected area for wildlife conservation. Protection expanded in 1993 to strengthen conservation efforts for the region's bear populations and ecosystem.

Native Alaskan communities have long relied on this river's resources, and their fishing traditions remain visible in how the landscape is used today. The relationship between people and wildlife here reflects practices that have shaped this region for generations.

Access is highly restricted through a state-managed lottery that limits daily visitors to 10 people during the main season from June to August. Visitors should prepare for remote wilderness conditions and variable weather typical of coastal Alaska.

The river's falls act as a natural barrier that concentrates salmon during upstream migration, creating one of North America's densest bear gatherings. When fishing peaks, as many as 74 brown bears can congregate in this area simultaneously.

Location: Kenai Peninsula

GPS coordinates: 59.04973,-154.47209

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:10