Prince of Wales Island Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Island

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the pristine wilderness of the Alaska region, Prince of Wales Island is a hidden gem that beckons adventurous travelers with its untouched natural beauty. Located in the Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area, this majestic island offers a unique blend of rugged landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.

For nature enthusiasts, Prince of Wales Island is a paradise waiting to be explored. With its vast forests, towering mountains, and crystal-clear lakes, the island is a haven for outdoor activities. Hiking enthusiasts can embark on exhilarating trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints, where they can soak in panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscapes. The island is also home to some of the best fishing spots in the region, attracting anglers from far and wide in search of trophy-sized salmon and halibut.

Wildlife lovers will find themselves in awe of the island's diverse ecosystem. Prince of Wales Island is teeming with wildlife, including majestic bald eagles soaring overhead, playful sea otters frolicking in the waters, and elusive black bears roaming through the dense forests. Visitors can embark on wildlife-watching excursions, guided by knowledgeable experts who are well-versed in the island's flora and fauna.

Immersing oneself in the island's rich cultural heritage is an essential part of any visit to Prince of Wales Island. The indigenous communities that have inhabited the island for centuries have preserved their traditions and customs, offering visitors a glimpse into their way of life. Travelers can visit traditional longhouses, where they can witness ancient rituals and learn about the indigenous peoples' deep connection to the land.

Exploring the island's charming towns and villages is an experience in itself. With their colorful wooden houses and friendly locals, these communities exude a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can stroll through quaint streets, browse local art galleries, and indulge in delicious seafood delicacies at waterfront restaurants.

Alternative names: Area: 2577.23 mi²Elevation: 2051 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 55°31'26"N, 132°43'59"W

Location

AlaskaUnited States

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Prince of Wales Island Top Attractions

Prince of Wales Island Attractions - What to See and Explore

Prince of Wales Island offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Hydaburg Totem Park, On Your Knees Cave, Karta River Wilderness, South Prince of Wales Wilderness. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Nature and wildlife • Park
Hydaburg Totem Park
The Hydaburg Totem Park is a city park in the small community of Hydaburg, Alaska, located on the western side of Prince of Wales Island in southeastern Alaska. The park is also part of the many parks inside the Tongass National Forest.
Archaeological site
On Your Knees Cave
On Your Knees Cave is an archaeological site located in southeastern Alaska. Human remains were found at the site in 1996 that dated between 9,730 ±60 and 9,880±50 radiocarbon YBP or a calendrical date of 10,300 YBP.
Nature • Natural attraction • Protected area
Karta River Wilderness
Karta River Wilderness is a U. S. wilderness area within the Tongass National Forest, centrally located on Prince of Wales Island.

Nature • Natural attraction • Protected area
South Prince of Wales Wilderness
The South Prince of Wales Wilderness is a wilderness area on Prince of Wales Island, Alaska, protecting 90,968 acres of undeveloped Pacific temperate rainforest, much of which is old-growth.
City
Klawock
Klawock is a city in Prince of Wales–Hyder Census Area, in the U.S. state of Alaska, on the west coast of Prince of Wales Island, on Klawock Inlet, across from Klawock Island. The population was 755 at the 2010 census, down from 854 in 2000.
55°33'20"N • 132°20'42"W
Kasaan Peninsula
Kasaan Peninsula lies between Clarence Strait and Kasaan Bay in the U.S. state of Alaska. It forms a cut out from the eastern coast of Prince of Wales Island on the south, and by Tolstoi Bay and Thome Bay on the north.

Day trips

Prince of Wales Island – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Prince of Wales Island, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Southeast Alaska Discovery Center (Ketchikan), First Lutheran Church (Ketchikan), Totem Heritage Center (Ketchikan).

45 milesE
Museum, Visitor center, History museum
Southeast Alaska Discovery Center, Ketchikan
The Southeast Alaska Discovery Center is a visitor center in Ketchikan, Alaska, operated by the United States Forest Service as part of the Tongass National Forest.
44 milesE
Church, Gothic Revival architecture
First Lutheran Church, Ketchikan
The First Lutheran Church in Ketchikan, Alaska is a historic church at 1200 Tongass Avenue. It was designed by architect W.G. Brust of Seattle and was built in 1930 by Ketchikan local builder Carl Foss.
45 milesE
Museum, History museum, Historical place
Totem Heritage Center, Ketchikan
The Totem Heritage Center is a museum operated by the City of Ketchikan in the U.S. state of Alaska. The Heritage Center houses one of the world's largest collections of unrestored 19th century totem poles.
47 milesE
Historical place, Park
Saxman Totem Park, Ketchikan
Saxman Totem Park is a public park in the city of Saxman, Alaska, just south of Ketchikan in southeastern Alaska.
38 milesE
State park, Park, Historical place
Totem Bight State Historical Park, Ketchikan
Totem Bight State Historical Park is a 33-acre state park in the U.S. state of Alaska. It is located north of Ketchikan.