Discovering the Hidden Gem of the Southeast

When planning an unforgettable northern adventure, many travelers focus entirely on the mainland, overlooking the incredible hidden gems tucked away in the southeastern panhandle. If you are looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience, Prince of Wales Alaska should be at the very top of your travel itinerary. Known for its lush rainforests, abundant wildlife, and incredibly welcoming local communities, this island offers a slice of the Last Frontier that feels both wild and wonderfully accessible.

Prince of Wales Alaska is not just another stop on a standard tour; it is a destination that invites you to slow down, breathe in the crisp ocean air, and immerse yourself in a truly chill atmosphere. Whether you are seeking a quiet weekend trip or a rugged outdoor expedition, this island provides the perfect backdrop. From the moment you step onto the ferry in Ketchikan to the evenings spent enjoying great seafood with lovely views of the harbor, every moment here is designed to help you disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Understanding the Geography and Scale

To truly appreciate a trip to Prince of Wales Alaska, it helps to understand just how massive and diverse this island really is. It is the third-largest island in the United States, trailing only the Big Island of Hawaii and Kodiak Island. Spanning over 2,500 square miles, the island is heavily forested, making up a significant portion of the magnificent Tongass National Forest—the largest national forest in the country.

Despite its massive size, the island maintains a remarkably intimate, small-town feel. The landscape is a stunning mosaic of deep fjords, towering mountains, dense temperate rainforests, and intricate cave systems. Because of its unique geography, the island boasts an extensive network of logging roads—over 1,500 miles of them—that have been repurposed to provide adventurous travelers with unparalleled access to remote lakes, hidden streams, and secluded bays. This makes it an absolute paradise for those who love to explore by vehicle, offering a completely different experience than the standard highway routes found on the mainland.

Getting There: A Scenic Journey from Ketchikan

One of the best parts about visiting Prince of Wales Alaska is the journey to get there. The island is primarily accessed from the vibrant coastal city of Ketchikan. For most visitors, the adventure begins by hopping on a cool boat—specifically, the Inter-Island Ferry Authority (IFA) vessel. This daily ferry service runs between Ketchikan and the port community of Hollis on Prince of Wales Island.

The three-hour ferry ride is an experience in itself. As you leave Ketchikan behind, you will navigate through the scenic waters of the Clarence Strait. Passengers are treated to lovely views of the surrounding islands, deep blue waters, and mist-shrouded mountains. It is highly recommended to spend some time on the observation deck. Keep your eyes peeled, as it is incredibly common to spot bald eagles soaring overhead, playful sea otters floating in the kelp beds, and even humpback whales or orcas breaching in the distance. The ferry features comfortable seating, a small cafeteria, and a very chill atmosphere, making it the perfect, relaxing start to your weekend trip.

Alternatively, if you are short on time or simply want to experience the thrill of Alaskan aviation, you can take a floatplane from Ketchikan directly to several of the island's communities, such as Craig or Klawock. These short, scenic flights offer a breathtaking bird's-eye view of the island's rugged topography and endless waterways.

Exploring the Awesome Little Towns

Unlike the bustling tourist hubs found elsewhere in the state, the communities on Prince of Wales Alaska are genuine, hard-working Alaskan towns that welcome visitors with open arms. Each town has its own unique character and history.

Craig

Craig is the largest community on the island and serves as the primary commercial hub. Situated on a small island connected to the main island by a short causeway, Craig is the epitome of an awesome little town. It features a picturesque harbor filled with commercial fishing boats, charming local shops, and incredibly lovely views of the surrounding archipelago. The vibe here is relaxed and friendly, making it an excellent basecamp for your island adventures.

Klawock

Just a short drive from Craig is the town of Klawock, famous for its rich Indigenous heritage. Klawock is home to a stunning totem park that features 21 intricately carved totem poles, representing the history and legends of the local Tlingit people. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in the cultural history of Prince of Wales Alaska. Klawock also boasts a significant salmon hatchery, which plays a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem and fishing industry.

Thorne Bay and Coffman Cove

If you venture further north, you will find smaller, more secluded communities like Thorne Bay and Coffman Cove. Thorne Bay was once the largest logging camp in North America and has since transitioned into a peaceful haven for sport fishing and outdoor recreation. Coffman Cove offers a similarly tranquil experience, with stunning views of the Clarence Strait and easy access to some of the best wildlife viewing on the island.

Outdoor Adventures: Embracing the Wild

The true draw of Prince of Wales Alaska is its unparalleled access to the great outdoors. Whether you are an avid angler, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply someone looking to escape the crowds, there are many things to do the Prince of wales.

World-Class Fishing

Fishing is a way of life on the island. The surrounding marine waters and the island's countless rivers and lakes are teeming with fish. Anglers flock here for the chance to catch all five species of Pacific salmon (King, Coho, Sockeye, Pink, and Chum), as well as massive Pacific halibut, lingcod, and rockfish. Whether you choose to hire a local charter captain in Craig or cast a line from the banks of the Klawock River, the fishing here is nothing short of legendary.

Hiking and Caving

For those who prefer to stay on land, Prince of Wales Alaska offers fantastic hiking opportunities. Trails range from easy boardwalk strolls through the rainforest to challenging alpine ascents. One of the most unique geological features of the island is its extensive karst landscape, which has created hundreds of caves. The El Capitan Cave is the most famous and is the longest mapped cave in Alaska. During the summer months, the U.S. Forest Service offers guided tours of this incredible subterranean wonder.

Wildlife Viewing and Kayaking

The island is a haven for wildlife. It is home to a robust population of black bears (note: there are no brown bears on the island), Sitka black-tailed deer, and Alexander Archipelago wolves. Renting a kayak or taking a guided paddling tour is one of the best ways to explore the island's protected coves and estuaries, offering a silent and unobtrusive way to observe marine life and coastal predators in their natural habitat.

Culinary Delights: Great Seafood and Chill Vibes

You cannot visit Prince of Wales Alaska without indulging in the local culinary scene. Because the island's economy is so deeply tied to the ocean, you are guaranteed to find some of the freshest, most delicious seafood in the world. From casual diners to cozy lodge restaurants, great seafood is always on the menu.

Imagine sitting on an outdoor patio in Craig, enjoying a plate of beer-battered halibut fish and chips or a perfectly grilled piece of freshly caught King salmon, all while taking in the lovely views of the sun setting over the harbor. The dining atmosphere across the island perfectly matches its overall vibe: unpretentious, welcoming, and incredibly chill. Be sure to strike up a conversation with the locals at the pub; you will likely hear fascinating stories about commercial fishing, logging, and life in rural Alaska.

Planning Your Island Itinerary

Integrating a trip to Prince of Wales Alaska into your broader vacation requires a bit of forethought, but the effort is well worth it. Because the island is accessed via Ketchikan, it makes for a fantastic Alaska cruise add-on if you are already sailing the Inside Passage and want to step away from the typical tourist ports.

If you are building a larger, independent vacation, utilizing a comprehensive Alaska road trip planner can help you coordinate ferry schedules, rental vehicles, and flight times. Keep in mind that while there are paved roads connecting the main towns of Hollis, Craig, Klawock, and Thorne Bay, much of the island is accessed via gravel logging roads. If you plan to explore deeply, renting a sturdy vehicle with good tires is highly recommended.

When it comes to accommodations, the island offers a mix of cozy bed and breakfasts, rustic U.S. Forest Service cabins, and full-service fishing lodges. Because inventory is limited compared to mainland cities, we highly recommend checking Alaska lodging availability well in advance, especially if you are traveling during the peak summer months of June through August.

Finally, the weather in Southeast Alaska is notoriously unpredictable. It is a temperate rainforest, which means rain is always a possibility, even on the sunniest of days. Be sure to consult our essential Alaska road trip packing list to ensure you bring the right layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy footwear to keep you comfortable during your island explorations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get to Prince of Wales Island?

The most common and scenic way to reach Prince of Wales Alaska is by taking the Inter-Island Ferry from Ketchikan to the port of Hollis. The ferry ride takes about three hours. Alternatively, you can take a short floatplane or wheeled aircraft flight from Ketchikan directly to towns like Craig or Klawock.

Do I need a car on the island?

Yes, having a vehicle is highly recommended if you want to explore the island fully. While you can walk around the individual towns, the island is massive, and the trailheads, fishing spots, and different communities are spread far apart. You can bring a car over on the ferry from Ketchikan or rent one locally in Craig or Klawock.

What is the best time to visit Prince of Wales Alaska?

The best time to visit is during the summer months, from late May through early September. During this time, the weather is the warmest, the days are long, and the wildlife viewing and fishing opportunities are at their absolute peak. However, September is also a beautiful time for those looking to avoid the summer rush and enjoy the fall colors.

Are there bears on Prince of Wales Island?

Yes, the island has a very healthy population of black bears. Interestingly, there are no brown (grizzly) bears on Prince of Wales Island. Visitors should always practice proper bear safety, carry bear spray when hiking, and ensure all food and trash are secured properly.

Is Prince of Wales Island good for a weekend trip?

Absolutely! While you could easily spend weeks exploring the island's 1,500 miles of roads, a weekend trip is a perfect way to experience the highlights. You can take the ferry over on a Friday, spend Saturday fishing, hiking, and enjoying the awesome little towns, and head back to Ketchikan on Sunday feeling completely refreshed.

Start Planning Your Island Getaway Today

Prince of Wales Alaska is a destination that captures the heart of every traveler who makes the journey. With its lovely views, great seafood, and incredibly chill atmosphere, it offers a perfect retreat into nature. Whether you are navigating the scenic logging roads, casting a line into crystal-clear waters, or simply enjoying the charm of an awesome little town, the memories you make here will last a lifetime. Do not let this hidden gem slip off your radar. Contact Alaska Road Trip today to start building your perfect itinerary, and let us help you discover the untamed beauty of Prince of Wales Island!