Admiralty Island National Monument

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Quick Facts

Admiralty Island National Monument

Alaska

(907) 586-8790

Map Directions

Things To Do

   

Overview

Welcome to Admiralty Island National Monument, USDA Forest Service, with 955,000 acres of wilderness in southeast Alaska's Tongass National Forest. Admiralty's history is rich and long. However, the island is more than a monument to the past. It is life on Admiralty today and the relationships of living forms on the island that lend it worldwide significance to scientists and that merit the recognition and pride of the Nation. Here a northern temperate rainforest exists, uniquely self contained and in perfect natural balance. The native Tlingít people call this island "Kootznoowoo," meaning "Fortress of the Bear." Indeed, Admiralty Island is home to the highest concentration of brown bears in the world; more than all the Lower 48 states combined. Visitor's can also enjoy wilderness fishing, visit the traditional native village of Angoon, camp or stay in cabins, canoe, and enjoy the rustic wilderness and wildlife that abounds at the monument.

Map of Admiralty Island

Latitude, Longitude: 57.641887, -134.344597

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Activities

  • Boating

    Float the canoe route across Admiralty Island between Angoon and Seymour Canal. This is a 32-mile trip with seven portages through an old-growth wilderness. The canoe route is not heavily used, so it offers visitors an outstanding opportunity to experience the solitude of the Alaskan wilderness. However, floatplanes are a common sight on lakes with cabins. The Canoe Route is recommended for paddlers with intermediate to advanced skills. Portages can be steep and up to three miles long.

  • Fishing

    Spectacular runs of wild salmon fill the island's creeks each summer, while remote mountain lakes offer the ultimate in wilderness fishing. Coastal Cutthroat Trout, Dolly Varden, Steelhead Trout, Rainbow Trout, Coho Salmon, Chinook Salmon, Sockeye Salmon, Pink Salmon and Chum Salmon are all available at Admiralty Island.

Seasonality/Weather

Southeast Alaska is known for its unpredictable weather. Be prepared for cold temperatures, rain, high winds, and rough water conditions (even on lakes). Bring extra food in case you are delayed, and always leave word with a responsible person who will contact authorities if you do not return on time.

Directions

Driving

by For travelers from Juneau, the Oliver Inlet Tram is a unique alternative to flying. This rail-mounted pushcart is located in Oliver Inlet State Marine Park, and is maintained by the State of Alaska Division of Parks. The one-mile tram connects Stephens Passage with upper Seymour Canal, and is capable of hauling personal gear and small watercraft (e.g. kayaks or canoes).

Flying

Access is also possible by floatplane.

Public Transportation

Water taxi service is available from Juneau to Oliver Inlet. This option eliminates the need to paddle across Stephens Passage, which frequently experiences high winds and rough seas.

Phone Numbers

Primary

(907) 586-8790

Links