Alaska Peninsula National Wildlife Refuge

Alaska Peninsula National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area on the Alaska Peninsula in southwestern Alaska managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. It conserves a mix of coastal, wetland, tundra and riverine habitats that support large populations of marine and terrestrial wildlife.

The refuge is noted for its salmon-bearing rivers and streams, dense populations of seabirds on offshore islands, and habitat for brown bears, waterfowl and other migratory species. Recreational activities that occur in parts of the refuge include fishing, wildlife viewing, sea bird watching and limited backcountry hiking and boating.

The refuge was established to protect critical fish and wildlife habitat along the Alaska Peninsula and is administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; management focuses on sustaining natural populations and ecosystems. Much of the area remains roadless and is managed for conservation rather than intensive tourism.

The refuge extends along the Pacific coast of the Alaska Peninsula in southwestern Alaska. Towns used as gateways or logistic bases include regional hubs such as King Salmon and Cold Bay, and access to many parts of the refuge is by small aircraft or boat.

• Access: Access is primarily by small aircraft, private boat or long overland travel; there are no major highways crossing the refuge and many areas are remote.
• Best season: Wildlife viewing is best in summer months (June to August) when salmon runs and bird migrations peak and access conditions are easier.