Admiralty Island National Monument, part of the Tongass National Forest in Alaska, is famed for its large population of brown bears and the dense, untouched wilderness that offers a profound wilderness experience.
Admiralty Island National Monument, located in Southeast Alaska, is a pristine expanse of wilderness covering most of Admiralty Island. It is known for its dense rainforests, rugged coastline, and immense biodiversity. With an area encompassing 1,057,693 acres, it offers a remarkable blend of spruce and hemlock forests, wetlands, and alpine tundra. The monument is particularly famous for housing one of the world's highest densities of brown bears, with an estimated 1,600 individuals inhabiting the island. The Tlingit people, who have lived on the island for thousands of years, call it 'Kootznoowoo', meaning 'Fortress of the Bears'. Beyond bear viewing, visitors can engage in kayaking along the tranquil waters, explore numerous trails, or fish in one of the countless rivers and lakes. The monument's historical significance is also underscored by sites like the Windfall Harbor Cannery, which reflect the region’s rich cultural past.
Pack Creek Bear Viewing Area
Kootznoowoo Wilderness
Lake Alexander
Windfall Harbor
A designated site known for its outstanding opportunities to observe brown bears catching salmon.
A large wilderness area encompassing much of the island, offering pristine hiking and exploration.
A scenic inlet that provides habitat for seals, otters, and a wide variety of bird species.