South Prince of Wales Wilderness Adventures

The South Prince of Wales Wilderness encompasses over 90,000 acres of dense temperate rainforests, steep mountainous terrain, and wild waterways on the southern part of Prince of Wales Island in Southeast Alaska. This wilderness is managed by the Tongass National Forest and was designated under the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA) in 1980, ensuring its wild character is preserved. The landscape features a mix of Sitka spruce and western hemlock forests, old-growth stands, and rich salmon-bearing rivers that support diverse wildlife including black bears, wolves, Sitka black-tailed deer, and bald eagles. The rugged coastline offers opportunities to explore secluded beaches and estuaries critical for migratory birds and marine mammals. Due to its remoteness and limited trail development, the area appeals mainly to experienced hikers, backpackers, kayakers, and anglers seeking solitude and wilderness experiences. Notable landmarks include the complex fjords and bays that carve into the island, especially around the Port St. Nicholas area, along with river corridors that provide habitat for spawning salmon and offer scenic fishing spots. The wilderness is a key component of the Tongass National Forest’s overall ecological integrity, contributing to the conservation of Southeast Alaska’s temperate rainforest ecosystem. Visitors are drawn to the area for backcountry camping, wildlife viewing, and paddling expeditions, often accessing the wilderness by boat or floatplane from nearby communities. The South Prince of Wales Wilderness presents a true Alaskan wilderness experience with minimal human impact and abundant natural beauty.