‘I’d like to be<i>just</i>a bit closer’: wildlife viewing proximity preferences at Denali National Park &amp; Preserve

Abstract

Proximity, the physical distance between visitors and wildlife, has been suggested as a potential factor contributing to high-quality wildlife viewing experiences. Managing visitor proximity to wildlife through interpretation and regulation is a recognized strategy to improve the safety of visitors and the species they encounter during ecotourism experiences in parks and protected areas. To further understand the important elements that influence proximity preferences for wildlife viewing, this study used an interpretivist approach to explore the experiences of visitors (n = 43) at Denali National Park & Preserve (Alaska, U.S.A). Results indicate that five interrelated themes influence visitors’ desired proximity to wildlife. Study findings also highlight the importance of park unit-specific management, and the need to manage at a unit-specific level the expectations for wildlife viewing proximity. Practitioners can use these findings to inform wildlife viewing management, increase visitor safety, and positively influence visitor experiences.