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Wildlife Management Area · Alaska

Curtis Lake Wildlife Management Area

Curtis Lake Wildlife Management Area is a protected wetland and forest habitat in southeast Alaska, known for diverse wildlife, including waterfowl and black bears, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching and nature observation.

Wildlife Management Area2,5004+ Trails

Designation

Wildlife Management Area

Total Wilderness Area

2,500

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Curtis Lake Wildlife Management Area

Curtis Lake Wildlife Management Area is a protected wetland and forest habitat in southeast Alaska, known for diverse wildlife, including waterfowl and black bears, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching and nature observation.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Curtis Lake Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is located on Revillagigedo Island near Ketchikan, Alaska. The area is comprised largely of wetlands surrounding Curtis Lake and its tributaries, surrounded by temperate rainforests characteristic of the southeast Alaskan coastal environment. The WMA covers lowland riparian zones and forested uplands, providing crucial habitat for a variety of species including waterfowl, black bears, salmon, and migratory birds. This diverse habitat supports hunting, trapping, wildlife viewing, and angling. Historically, the Curtis Lake area has been important for subsistence hunting and fishing by indigenous communities, while today it is managed primarily for wildlife conservation and sustainable public use. Visitors come to Curtis Lake WMA for wildlife observation, particularly waterfowl during migration seasons, as well as for fishing, especially for trout and salmon. The surrounding forested landscapes also provide opportunities for nature photography and quiet exploration. Trails are minimal and mostly informal, preserving the area's wild character. Water access and boating are used to navigate the wetlands. The area's proximity to Ketchikan makes it an accessible natural retreat for residents and visitors looking for quiet outdoor recreation in a largely undeveloped setting.

Field Guide · Wildlife Management Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Curtis Lake Wildlife Management Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Scenic Hiking at Dude Mountain Trailhead, Ketchikan, Alaska★ 7.8⌖ 1 miHiking
Dude Mountain Trailhead

Scenic Hiking at Dude Mountain Trailhead, Ketchikan, Alaska

Located near Ketchikan, Alaska, Dude Mountain Trailhead offers a moderately challenging 1.5-mile route with rocky and steep terrain. Enjoy wildlife sightings, panoramic views, and diverse forest landscapes. Best visited late spring to early fall with sturdy boots and insect repellent recommended.

Scenic Hiking at Connell Lake Trail near Ketchikan, Alaska★ 7.2⌖ 3 miHiking
Connell Lake Trail

Scenic Hiking at Connell Lake Trail near Ketchikan, Alaska

Connell Lake Trail near Ketchikan, Alaska features an easy under 5-mile round trip hike through forest and alongside a lake. Visitors enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and e-biking on mixed terrain paths with boardwalks and bridges. Best visited late spring to early fall. Slippery surfaces possible in wet weather.

Scenic Hiking at Ward Lake Nature Trailhead, Ketchikan, Alaska★ 7.2⌖ 4 miHiking
Ward Lake Nature Trailhead

Scenic Hiking at Ward Lake Nature Trailhead, Ketchikan, Alaska

Explore the easy, flat loop trail around Ward Lake near Ketchikan, Alaska. Ideal for families and birdwatchers, this peaceful hike offers lake views, a charming suspension bridge, and native wildlife sightings. Best visited May through September for mild weather and lush greenery.

Hiking and Nature at Perseverance Lake Trail, Ketchikan, Alaska★ 7.2⌖ 4 miHiking
Perseverance Lake Trail

Hiking and Nature at Perseverance Lake Trail, Ketchikan, Alaska

Hike a moderately challenging 3-mile trail to Perseverance Lake near Ketchikan, Alaska. The route features forested switchbacks, boardwalks through wet areas, and tent platforms for camping. Best visited late spring to early fall, with a peaceful lake ideal for rest and nature viewing.

Hiking Adventure at Deer Mountain Trailhead, Ketchikan, Alaska★ 8.5⌖ 6 miHiking
Deer Mountain Trailhead

Hiking Adventure at Deer Mountain Trailhead, Ketchikan, Alaska

This 7.4-mile roundtrip trailhead near Ketchikan, Alaska, offers moderate hiking through rainforest to scenic summit views. Popular for wildlife watching and photography, best visited late spring to early fall. Bring waterproof gear and start early for a full day adventure.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Curtis Lake itself – a calm freshwater lake popular for fishing and wildlife observation✦ Riparian wetlands serving as prime waterfowl nesting and migration stopover habitat✦ Abundant black bear populations that visitors may see in early summer✦ Remote paddling opportunities through marshes and small waterways
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Curtis Lake Wildlife Management Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Curtis Lake Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Curtis Lake Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Curtis Lake Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Curtis Lake Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Curtis Lake Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Curtis Lake Wildlife Management Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Curtis Lake Wildlife Management Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access; no permits required for general recreation. Hunting and fishing require appropriate Alaska state licenses.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Curtis Lake Wildlife Management Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Ward Cove
⌖ 5.17 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ward Cove, Alaska

A tranquil coastal retreat known for pristine waters and nearby wilderness, perfect for water-based and quiet outdoor adventures in Southeast Alaska.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Saxman
⌖ 7.78 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Saxman, Alaska

A culturally rich coastal village offering unique outdoor activities set against Alaska’s temperate rainforest and rugged shoreline.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Metlakatla
⌖ 21.05 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Metlakatla, Alaska

A remote Alaskan coastal community offering tranquil wilderness access and rich cultural heritage in the Tongass National Forest region.

Late spring to early fallExplore Town
Thorne Bay
⌖ 40.26 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Thorne Bay, Alaska

A remote Alaskan coastal town offering rugged wilderness adventures in the temperate rainforest with abundant wildlife and pristine waterways.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Hydaburg
⌖ 50.81 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hydaburg, Alaska

A remote Southeast Alaskan Native village blending rich Tlingit culture with pristine coastal wilderness, offering unique marine and forest adventures.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Prince of Wales Island
⌖ 53.17 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Prince of Wales Island, Alaska

A remote and rugged wilderness paradise offering pristine coastal rainforests and abundant wildlife for year-round, off-the-grid outdoor adventure.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Curtis Lake Wildlife Management Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Talbot Lake Hike | Guided Tour in Ketchikan | Hiking, Eco Tour, Wildlife, Environmental AttractionKetchikan, Alaska · 5.46 mi away
Trails & Outdoor Adventures· Ward Cove

Talbot Lake Hike | Guided Tour in Ketchikan | Hiking, Eco Tour, Wildlife, Environmental Attraction

Discover the serenity and wildlife of Alaska’s Tongass National Forest on a guided hike to Talbot Lake. Perfect for nature lovers seeking an authentic wilderness experience, this trail offers stunning scenery and educational insights. Read on to learn why this trek is a must-do for outdoor adventurers.

3 hours

Explore this trip

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.