Prince of Wales Island is located in southeastern Alaska in the Pacific Ocean, within the Alexander Archipelago. It lies near Revillagigedo Island and Ketchikan and is situated at approximately 55.6500° N latitude and 132.9000° W longitude.
Prince of Wales Island Location Map
Google Map of Prince of Wales Island, Alaska, United States
About Prince of Wales Island
Prince of Wales Island is located in southeastern Alaska, in the United States, within the Alexander Archipelago. The island lies along the Pacific coast, south of Juneau, and is surrounded by the waters of the Pacific Ocean and numerous inland channels.
Geographically, Prince of Wales Island is situated at approximately 55.6500° North latitude and 132.9000° West longitude. It is separated from the Alaska mainland by Clarence Strait and other narrow waterways. Nearby locations include Revillagigedo Island to the east, Kuiu Island to the north, and the city of Ketchikan, which serves as a major regional hub.
According to recent U.S. Census data, Prince of Wales Island has a population of around 6,000 residents, spread across small communities and remote settlements. The island covers a total land area of about 2,577 square miles (6,673 square kilometers), making it one of the largest islands in the United States.
Prince of Wales Island is known for its dense forests, wildlife, and rugged natural landscapes. The island features extensive wilderness areas, fishing communities, and outdoor recreation opportunities, contributing to its reputation as a remote and scenic part of coastal Alaska.
Prince of Wales Island Facts
| Island Name | Prince of Wales Island |
| Native Names | Taan (Tlingit) |
| Country | United States of America |
| Continent | North America |
| State | Alaska |
| County / Borough | Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area |
| Location | Pacific Ocean, Alexander Archipelago, southeastern Alaska |
| Coordinates | Approx. 55.65° N, 132.90° W |
| Area | Approximately 2,577 sq mi (6,673 Sq Km) |
| Length | About 135 miles (217 km) |
| Width | Up to 65 miles (105 km) |
| Highest Point | Mount Calder - 3,547 ft (1,081 m) |
| Population | Approx. 5,000-5,500 residents |
| Administrative Status | Island within the State of Alaska |
| Ownership | State of Alaska, federal lands, Native corporations, private ownership |
| Currency | United States Dollar (USD) |
| Calling / Area Code | 907 |
| ZIP Code | 99921 (Craig), 99925 (Klawock) |
| Time Zone | Alaska Time Zone - UTC -9 (AKST), UTC -8 (AKDT) |
| Climate | Temperate rainforest climate with heavy rainfall |
| Geography | Forested mountains, lakes, caves, fjords, and rugged coastline |
| Famous Landmark | El Capitan Cave, Tongass National Forest |
| Flora & Fauna | Old-growth rainforest, black bears, deer, bald eagles, salmon |
| Tourist Activities | Fishing, kayaking, hiking, caving, wildlife viewing |
| Access | Ferries from Ketchikan (Hollis, Coffman Cove), regional airports |
| Famous For | Fourth-largest island in the U.S., wilderness, fishing, caves |
Attractions in Prince of Wales Island, Alaska
- Misty Fjords National Monument - Dramatic fjords, granite cliffs, waterfalls, and pristine wilderness landscapes.
- El Capitan Cave - One of Alaska’s most significant archaeological caves, revealing ancient human history.
- Tongass National Forest Trails - Vast rainforest trails offering hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic solitude.
- Thorne Bay - Popular fishing and boating area surrounded by forested mountains and coastal scenery.
- Coffman Cove - Scenic community and access point for kayaking, fishing, and forest exploration.
- Whale Pass - Picturesque waterway known for wildlife sightings and peaceful marine views.
- Hydaburg Totem Park - Cultural site showcasing traditional Haida totem poles and heritage.
- Hollis Ferry Area - Gateway location offering coastal views and access to nearby outdoor adventures.
- Freshwater Lakes - Numerous lakes ideal for kayaking, fishing, and quiet nature experiences.
- Wildlife Viewing Areas - Prime spots to observe bears, deer, bald eagles, whales, and marine life.
Distance from Prince of Wales Island to Alaska Cities
- Craig, Prince of Wales Island - 0 km (0 miles)
- Klawock, Prince of Wales Island - 10 km (6 miles)
- Ketchikan, Alaska - 50 km (31 miles)
- Wrangell, Alaska - 145 km (90 miles)
- Petersburg, Alaska - 180 km (112 miles)
- Sitka, Alaska - 285 km (177 miles)
- Juneau, Alaska - 360 km (224 miles)
- Yakutat, Alaska - 575 km (357 miles)
- Anchorage, Alaska - 1,050 km (652 miles)
- Fairbanks, Alaska - 1,300 km (808 miles)
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