Attractions and Places To See in Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area - Top 5

For an excellent chance to see bears, visit the Fish Creek Wildlife Observation Site near Hyder, especially from mid-July to early September when salmon are spawning. You can observe grizzly and black bears fishing in the shallow waters. Other great spots include the Sarkar Lakes Canoe Route for deer and eagles, and the waters around Prince of Wales Island for whales, orcas, and seals.

Yes, the region is rich in Native Alaskan culture. You can explore the impressive Klawock Totem Park with its 21 totems, or visit Hydaburg Totem Park where you might see artists at work in a carving shed. The Chief Son-I-Hat's Whale House and Totems Historic District in Kasaan offers insight into Haida culture. In Hyder, Storehouse No. 4 provides a glimpse into the town's mining history.

The area, largely within the Tongass National Forest, offers extensive opportunities for outdoor exploration. You can enjoy hiking, kayaking, and canoeing. The Sarkar Lakes Canoe Route is popular for paddling and wildlife viewing. For hiking, consider trails like Titan Trail (part) or Balls Lake Trail. You can also find many other hiking routes in the region, including easy options, by exploring the Hiking in Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area guide.

Many natural attractions are suitable for families. The Beaver Falls Karst Trail near El Capitan Cave offers an accessible boardwalk experience. Observing salmon spawning and the bears they attract at Fish Creek Wildlife Observation Site can be a memorable family experience. Gentle walks around lakes, like parts of the Balls Lake Trail, are also enjoyable for families.

The summer months, particularly from late July to September, are ideal for wildlife viewing, especially for observing bears feeding on salmon. This period also offers favorable weather for hiking, kayaking, and exploring the natural landscapes. Ranger-led tours of El Capitan Cave are also available during the summer.

Yes, the region is home to El Capitan Cave on Prince of Wales Island, which is the longest mapped cave in Alaska. The U.S. Forest Service offers free, ranger-led tours into the cave during the summer months, allowing visitors to explore its unique geological features.

The largest town on Prince of Wales Island, Craig, serves as a hub with local art galleries, shops, and waterfront views, likely offering accommodation and dining options. Other communities like Klawock, Hydaburg, Thorne Bay, and Hyder also provide services. Additionally, numerous U.S. Forest Service cabins are available for rent throughout Prince of Wales Island for a rustic overnight experience.

The Beaver Falls Karst Trail, located near El Capitan Cave, features an accessible boardwalk, allowing visitors to experience sinkholes and underground rivers. The Fish Creek Wildlife Observation Site also has a boardwalk and viewing platforms, making it accessible for wildlife viewing.

Beyond the extensive lakes and El Capitan Cave, you can visit the spectacular Salmon Glacier near Hyder, one of Canada's largest glaciers, accessible by road. The Tongass National Forest itself is a vast natural feature, offering dense old-growth forests, such as those found along the Titan Trail (part), and diverse coastal areas.

Yes, the region hosts the Prince of Wales Island marathon, a community-led event with a certified course that can be used to qualify for the Boston Marathon. You can explore parts of this route, or other intermediate trails like the Prince of Wales Island marathon route, for a challenging outdoor experience.

The forests and coastal areas are home to diverse wildlife. You might spot Sitka black-tailed deer, black bears, and eagles. Along the coast, look for sea otters, Steller sea lions, and harbor seals. Birdwatching is also excellent, with a wide array of species, including bald eagles, often seen around lakes like Balls Lake.

While many trails are open for public use, it's always advisable to check with the U.S. Forest Service for specific regulations regarding permits, especially for activities like overnight stays in cabins or certain recreational uses within the Tongass National Forest. Information on specific trailheads, like the Titan Trail, often includes details on access and parking.