Funter Bay

Funter Bay State Marine Park protects a scenic bay on Admiralty Island near Juneau in Southeast Alaska. The marine park provides wilderness anchorage and shore access on one of the wildest islands in Alaska, famous for its dense brown bear population. The bay offers protected waters in a spectacular setting of mountains and rainforest.

Admiralty Island has one of the highest concentrations of brown bears in the world, with approximately one bear per square mile. Bald eagles nest abundantly, and Sitka black-tailed deer browse the forest edges. Harbor seals and sea otters populate the marine waters. Salmon runs attract bears to stream mouths throughout summer.

Old-growth temperate rainforest covers Admiralty Island, with massive Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and red and yellow cedar. The island contains some of the largest remaining stands of old-growth in Southeast Alaska. Dense understory of devil's club and salmonberry provides bear habitat.

Admiralty Island consists of ancient oceanic rocks accreted to North America over millions of years. The island was shaped by glacial erosion, creating the fjords and bays that indent its coastline. Limestone formations create karst topography and cave systems in parts of the island.

Maritime climate brings mild temperatures and abundant rain. Summers see temperatures in the 50s-60s°F while winters rarely experience extreme cold. Annual precipitation exceeds 90 inches, supporting the lush rainforest. Fog and clouds are common, with occasional clear days revealing the surrounding peaks.

Tlingit peoples have inhabited Admiralty Island for thousands of years, with the island holding special cultural significance. The Tlingit name Kootznoowoo means "Fortress of Bears." A World War II internment camp for Unangax̂ (Aleut) people was located at Funter Bay, a tragic chapter in Alaska history that is now remembered and commemorated.

Funter Bay State Marine Park was established to provide public anchorage and shore access on Admiralty Island. The marine park offers a gateway to experiencing one of Alaska's wildest islands while respecting the safety considerations posed by the dense bear population.

Wildlife viewing, particularly for brown bears, is the primary attraction. Historic remnants from the World War II era provide interpretive opportunities. Shore exploration offers old-growth forest experiences. The bay provides anchorage for boaters exploring the wild Admiralty Island coast.

The marine park provides anchorage and primitive shore access. No developed facilities exist; bear-aware camping practices are essential. Access is by boat or floatplane from Juneau, approximately 20 miles away. Commercial tours operate to bear viewing locations on Admiralty Island.

The marine park protects anchorage while emphasizing coexistence with the island's dense bear population. Bear safety practices are essential for all visitors. The park contributes to protection of Admiralty Island's exceptional wilderness character.