Challenges

Extent, Isolation, Weather

Puffins flying overhead – the roar of fur seals or sea lions – the sight of a sea otter pup will reward you if you visit, but challenges abound to reach all but a fraction of the refuge’s 2,500 islands, spires, rocks, and coastal cliffs.

Longest Refuge in Nation

Lands in the Alaska Maritime Refuge stretch from rainforest islands in Southeast Alaska, west out the Aleutian Chain to Attu Island, and north above the Arctic Circle.

Or – seen superimposed over the middle of the North American Continent – they would stretch from Georgia to California to the Canadian border. How Big?

Few Human Neighbors

Some of the largest gatherings of seabirds and marine mammals are in places without any human neighbors. One of the islands far out in the Bering Sea is the most remote spot in all of Alaska.

This means that access is challenging. There are no harbors, roads, runways, or lodging on most of the refuge.

Fog, Clouds, Wind, and Rain

Wet and cool weather is so typical on many refuge islands that a sunny day is cause for celebration. Ocean waters in unprotected areas can be rough from frequent storms. Flights – if available – can be cancelled due to weather, sometimes for days. Check our tips for staying warm and dry.

The Most Accessible Areas

Luckily, the refuge has at least seven regional wildlife viewing hot spots that are accessible with varying degrees of effort.