Prince of Wales Island
Exploring Prince of Wales Island: An Outdoor Enthusiast’s Paradise
If you’re a lover of the great outdoors, Prince of Wales Island is a destination that deserves a spot at the top of your adventure list. Located in Southeast Alaska, this remote island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a pristine, wild environment. From its dense rainforests to its rugged coastlines, Prince of Wales Island offers an abundance of outdoor activities and stunning natural beauty.
Where is Prince of Wales Island?
Prince of Wales Island is the fourth-largest island in the United States and part of the Alexander Archipelago in Southeast Alaska. It’s just a short ferry ride from Ketchikan, Alaska’s southernmost city, and can also be accessed by floatplane. The island spans over 2,500 square miles and is home to a mix of small towns, Native Alaskan communities, and vast, unspoiled wilderness.
Top Outdoor Activities on Prince of Wales Island
Whether you’re into fishing, hiking, hunting, or wildlife photography, Prince of Wales Island has something for every nature lover. Here are some of the top outdoor activities that attract adventurers from around the world:
- Fishing: Prince of Wales Island is a fishing paradise. Anglers flock here for world-class salmon, halibut, and trout fishing. The island’s countless rivers, streams, and saltwater bays provide ample opportunities to reel in a trophy catch. Saltwater charters offer the chance to target king salmon and halibut, while freshwater anglers can pursue steelhead and trout in the island’s scenic streams.
- Hunting: For big game hunters, Prince of Wales Island is a prime destination. The island is known for its healthy population of Sitka blacktail deer, a sought-after species that provides a unique and challenging hunting experience. Hunters can also pursue black bears, with Prince of Wales Island being home to some of the largest black bears in the world. The island’s dense forests and rugged terrain make hunting a true test of patience and skill.
- Wildlife Viewing and Photography If you’re a wildlife photographer or simply love observing animals in their natural habitat, Prince of Wales Island won’t disappoint. Eagles soar overhead, whales breach along the coastline, and sea otters play in the kelp beds. On land, you’re likely to spot Sitka blacktail deer, black bears, and an array of bird species that thrive in the lush forests and along the shorelines.
- Hiking and Camping With hundreds of miles of trails winding through old-growth temperate rainforests, Prince of Wales Island offers hikers a chance to immerse themselves in nature’s splendor. The island’s hiking trails range from short, family-friendly walks to multi-day backcountry treks. Popular trails include the El Capitan Caves Trail, which leads to Alaska’s largest known cave, and the Beaver Falls Trail, offering breathtaking views of waterfalls and lush landscapes. For campers, the island’s remote locations and tranquil campsites provide the perfect escape.
- Kayaking and Boating With its jagged coastline, secluded bays, and crystal-clear waters, Prince of Wales Island is a dream destination for kayaking and boating enthusiasts. Paddle through calm coves, explore sea caves, or venture into the open ocean for a chance to spot whales, dolphins, and other marine life. Boaters can navigate the island’s protected waterways or head offshore for a more adventurous experience.
Why Prince of Wales Island is a Must-Visit Destination
Prince of Wales Island isn’t just another remote getaway—it’s an outdoor lover’s dream. The island’s rugged beauty, abundance of wildlife, and endless recreational opportunities make it a bucket-list destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. Unlike more crowded tourist hotspots, Prince of Wales Island offers solitude and a genuine connection with the wild.
Reasons to Visit Prince of Wales Island:
- Pristine Wilderness: Vast stretches of old-growth forest, unspoiled coastlines, and secluded coves offer a sense of pure adventure.
- Diverse Wildlife: The island’s ecosystem is teeming with wildlife, from marine mammals to forest-dwelling creatures.
- World-Class Fishing and Hunting: Whether you’re fishing for salmon or hunting for Sitka blacktail deer, the island’s natural resources are second to none.
- Unforgettable Adventure: From exploring sea caves to hiking to remote viewpoints, every day on Prince of Wales Island is an adventure.
Best Time to Visit Prince of Wales Island
The best time to visit Prince of Wales Island depends on the type of adventure you’re seeking. Summer (June to August) is ideal for fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The warmer weather and longer daylight hours make it easier to explore the island’s many trails and waterways. Fall (September to November) is prime hunting season for Sitka blacktail deer, while spring offers excellent bear hunting opportunities. Winter brings a quieter, more serene atmosphere, making it a peaceful retreat for those seeking solitude.
Final Thoughts
For outdoor enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable adventure, Prince of Wales Island offers a perfect blend of raw beauty, rugged adventure, and diverse wildlife. Whether you're reeling in salmon, hunting black bears, or kayaking along the misty coastline, the island’s untouched wilderness is sure to leave a lasting impression. Plan your trip, pack your gear, and prepare to experience the adventure of a lifetime on Prince of Wales Island.
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TRIP REPORTS | CLIENT GALLERY | BOOK A TRIP
My hunt was absolutely top notch.
The outfitter is a fantastic man and incredibly hard working and knowledgeable, there is no doubt he will do everything within his power to make peoples hunts successful and enjoyable. I plan to do it again with him next year for sure.
Wade Zuver
The outfitter handled everything perfectly.
We were thankful that Outdoors International hooked us up with a great outfitter because they were able to find us an acceptable alternate on short notice. Overall the two year process to get this float in was seamless and worry free. Just like it should be.
Stan Masneri
Second time I’ve done this particular trip.
The steelhead run was awesome! The food was even better than the first time, which is hard to imagine, and our guide is the best there is! If catching big fish is your thing I highly recommend booking through Outdoors International.
Jim C.
