To the Tlingit Indians, this forested and mountainous island has always been Kootznoohoo – fortress of the bears. It is an apt description for one of North America’s premier bear habitats. Early Russian explorers perhaps all too aware of the proximity of the powerful animal, called it the Island of Fear.

Passed by the US Congress in1980, the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act established 14 wilderness areas in Tongass National Forest – and designated Admiralty Island as a national monument. With 678 miles of forested coastline and 67 salmon streams, Admiralty is prime bear habitat.  There are no black bears on the island, just grizzlies grown to immense size on the bountiful salmon.

Whale-watching is popular in the waters around Admiralty, particularly on the island’s south and west sides. Their sudden, aerial breaches will amaze you. Experienced charter boat captains know the whale watching rules and are careful not to harass these endangered animals.