Journey to a Wildlife Paradise

Clouds of seabirds, rare birds from Asia, unique species found nowhere else, velvety green tundra ablaze with flowers, World War II battlefields, dramatic coastlines, sand beaches of every color, and steaming volcanoes are just some of the delights awaiting visitors to the Alaska Maritime Refuge. It is not, however, an easy refuge to visit. Only in a few wildlife viewing hotspots is access doable for most people. 

Beyond the End of the Road

A journey to the far-flung lands of the Alaska Maritime Refuge almost always involves a boat. You will be in good historic company. Boats are how the first inhabitants of these islands and coastal lands traveled, and it's how the refuge research crews usually reach their destinations. Follow this link to learn more about How to Reach the Alaska Maritime Refuge

Road, Air Links to Visitor Center, Headquarters

For those not ready to set sail, the Alaska Islands & Ocean Visitor Center and Refuge headquarter in Homer, Alaska, can be reached by vehicle and scheduled aircraft from Anchorage (225 miles).

Rewards Surpass Challenges

Nature adds challenges to journeying here. Alaska's vast distances and coastal weather can complicate travel plans. To learn more about travel challenges follow this link.

Travel Tips for a Great Journey

Find information at this link for how to dress, when to come for best wildlife viewing, and proper etiquette for interacting with precious coastal resources and refuge neighbors.

A Wilderness Refuge

There are no campgrounds on the refuge although camping is allowed on most of the refuge. Recreational facilities on the refuge are limited to short trails on Adak, Unalaska and the Pribilofs. Nearby villages and towns offer visitor services.

For More Help

Contact the refuge, poppy_benson@fws.gov for more information on visiting the less accessible parts of the refuge.