Kodiak Island, AK

Be awed by the dramatic wilderness of Kodiak Island, an Alaskan landscape marked by fearsome wildlife, mountainous coastline and a proud heritage.

Experience Alaska’s finest qualities in the spectacular region of Kodiak Island. This mountainous, forested destination combines the warm welcome and historical sightseeing of Alaskan communities with some of the state’s most spectacular scenery. Kodiak Island also claims to be one of the country’s best places to see magnificent wildlife such as bears and whales.

Start your journey across the island at the Alutiiq Museum, which offers information on Kodiak Island’s Alaskan Native culture. The Holy Resurrection Orthodox Cathedral hints at a different era of the island’s history, when Russians immigrated to this part of North America.

Tour other buildings that are listed on the National Register of Historic Sites. The Erskine House was built in the late 18th century as a fur warehouse. Learn about Kodiak’s role in World War II at the Fort Abercrombie State Historical Park.

Leave the towns and villages behind and disappear into the island’s wilderness. Spot the area’s most famous resident, the Kodiak brown bear, on wildlife-watching trips across the island. Hike up the peaks of the island on wilderness trails using maps from the Visitor Information Center in downtown Kodiak.

Take a boat ride around the inlets and bays of Kodiak Island’s jagged coastline. Old Harbor is a popular destination for salmon fishing and spotting puffins. Watch for whales from land at places such as Miller Point or go on a boat trip to find these gentle mammals. Most harbors offer excursions to spot fin, minke and humpback whales, among others.

Enjoy a range of winter activities on the island, such as snowmobile excursions and ice fishing. The landscape gets covered in a blanket of white and the lodges come to life with cozy and welcoming wood fires.

Fly into the town of Kodiak from Anchorage and hop between the islands of the Kodiak archipelago on smaller charter planes. Visit Kodiak Island during any season, although late fall, winter and early spring will require warm clothing for the changeable weather.