Gravina Islands

A small group of islands in the Alexander Archipelago of southeastern Alaska, lying immediately across the Tongass Narrows from the city of Ketchikan. The largest island in the group, Gravina Island, is notable for hosting Ketchikan International Airport and for a widely publicized bridge proposal from the 2000s.

The area is primarily visited for transport connections, local fishing and wildlife viewing. Shoreline habitat and forested interiors support seabirds, marine mammals and coastal forest species, and the islands are used for small-scale recreation and access to remote shoreline areas. Local boat tours and ferries provide the normal visitor access from Ketchikan.

The islands lie within the traditional territory of Tlingit peoples and were used for seasonal fishing and hunting. During the 20th century one island became the site of the regional airport and small-scale development associated with Ketchikan.

Sited in southeastern Alaska immediately west of downtown Ketchikan, separated by the Tongass Narrows. The islands form part of the Alexander Archipelago and are surrounded by sheltered waterways and fjords of the Inside Passage.

• Access: The island group sits adjacent to the city of Ketchikan, with vehicle and pedestrian ferry links serving residents and visitors.
• Airport location: Ketchikan International Airport is located on one of the islands, making the group the air gateway for the local area.

What to See #

• Gravina Island: Largest and most prominent island in the group, located immediately across the Tongass Narrows from Ketchikan and home to Ketchikan International Airport (KTN).