Fat Bear Week 2026 Champion: Bear #89 Backpack
Bear #89, affectionately known as Backpack, has emerged victorious in Fat Bear Week 2026, beating Bear #910 in a closely contested final. This competition encourages bear lovers worldwide to vote for their favorite fat bears at Katmai National Park and Preserve in Alaska. Backpack’s win marks a significant achievement, as he takes over the title from last year’s champion, Bear #32, also known as Chunk.
Backpack, who earned his nickname from riding on his mother’s back as a cub, is now a healthy and powerful 20.5-year-old bear. His mother, Bear #435 (Holly), is a legendary figure in the park’s bear community. Despite facing adversity early in life—including a leg injury that raised concerns about his survival—Backpack has thrived and is known for his calm demeanor among peers.
In an exciting journey to the finals, Backpack defeated Bear #164 (Bucky Dent) by a narrow margin in the semi-finals, leading to one of the closest votes in the history of Fat Bear Week.
The competition began on September 22, featuring 16 adult brown bears that competed in various categories, including mother bears and sub-adults. As they prepare for their long winter hibernation, bears like Backpack feast on salmon, which they rely on for fat reserves that will see them through the season.
Congratulations to Backpack, the celebrated winner of Fat Bear Week 2026! For those looking to support bear conservation efforts, donations can be made to the Otis Fund, which helps with research and outreach in Katmai National Park.
Image: Sara Wolman, explore.org
