Grindall Island

Grindall Island State Marine Park protects a forested island in the Clarence Strait area of Southeast Alaska. The marine park encompasses the island and surrounding waters, providing wilderness camping and anchorage. Located in the southern portion of the Alexander Archipelago, the park offers remote island experiences accessible from Ketchikan.

The island supports black bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, and smaller mammals typical of Southeast Alaska islands. Harbor seals haul out on rocky shores while sea otters float in surrounding kelp beds. Bald eagles nest in tall trees and fish the productive waters. Salmon pass through adjacent waters seasonally.

Old-growth temperate rainforest covers the island, with Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and red and yellow cedar forming the canopy. Moss drapes every surface in the perpetually wet climate. The understory is dense with devil's club, salmonberry, and various ferns.

Grindall Island consists of ancient oceanic rocks that were added to North America through plate tectonics over millions of years. The island displays the typical geography of Southeast Alaska islands, shaped by glaciation and ongoing erosion.

Southern Southeast Alaska experiences very high precipitation, with some areas receiving over 150 inches annually. Temperatures remain mild year-round due to maritime influence. Rain and clouds dominate, with fog common particularly in summer. Clear days are treasured but uncommon.

Tlingit and Haida peoples have utilized the islands of this region for countless generations. The complex waterways provided resources and travel routes between communities. Commercial fishing and logging have been important in the region's modern economy.

Grindall Island State Marine Park was established to provide public access to island camping and anchorage in southern Southeast Alaska. The marine park offers wilderness experiences within reach of Ketchikan, Alaska's southernmost major community.

Island exploration and primitive camping are primary activities. The old-growth forest provides excellent hiking opportunities through moss-draped trees. Wildlife viewing includes bears, deer, and marine mammals. The remote setting offers genuine solitude.

The marine park provides primitive camping and anchorage. No developed facilities exist; visitors must be fully self-sufficient. Access is by boat or kayak from Ketchikan. The island's remote location requires planning and appropriate equipment.

The marine park protects old-growth forest and natural shorelines. Leave-no-trace practices are essential in this sensitive environment. The park helps preserve examples of Southeast Alaska's rainforest island ecosystems.