Chichagof Island is a prominent geographical feature located in the Alexander Archipelago of southeastern Alaska, United States. It is one of the largest islands in this archipelago, encompassing an area of approximately 2,166 square miles (or 5,614 square kilometers). The island is part of the Hoonah-Angoon Census Area and is separated from the mainland by the Chatham Strait to the east, the Icy Strait to the north, and the Gulf of Alaska to the west.
Chichagof Island is renowned for its dense temperate rainforest, breathtaking coastal scenery, and diverse wildlife. The island is named after Admiral Vasili Chichagov, a Russian naval officer who explored the area in the late 18th century. Its pristine wilderness is home to a wide array of flora and fauna, including Sitka spruce, hemlock, salmonberry, and various species of bears, whales, seals, eagles, and migratory birds.
The landscape of Chichagof Island offers abundant outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing, attracting visitors and nature enthusiasts from around the world. With its remote location and limited human infrastructure, the island remains largely untouched and preserved, providing a unique and untouched wilderness experience.
The island is also home to a few small communities, including Hoonah, which is the largest Native Tlingit village in Alaska and serves as the main hub for visitors exploring Chichagof Island. Overall, Chichagof Island represents a significant natural and cultural landmark in the region, offering a pristine and immersive experience in the heart of Alaska's wilderness.
