A Day at the Bear Spa — Lake Clark, Alaska

Photograph by Gayle sheahen

A Day at the Bear Spa

Who says a day at the spa is just for humans?

Bears have always been my passion, and living in the woods of northern Wisconsin, I’m lucky to have black bears visit my property. But my trip to Lake Clark, Alaska, gave me the unforgettable opportunity to photograph magnificent brown bears in one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen.

After snagging a last-minute cancellation, I found myself flying over rugged mountains to a remote lake with stunning blue glacial water. And then there was this bear! Wading in the mineral-rich turquoise water, she seemed to be enjoying a relaxing spa day rather than searching for her next meal.

Choosing just one photo from this once-in-a-lifetime adventure was incredibly difficult, but this moment made me smile. It’s a reminder that wildlife photography is full of surprises, beauty, and moments you never forget.

She reminds me of a stuffed Teddy Bear .