Pavlov Harbor

Pavlov Harbor State Marine Park protects a natural harbor on the southeastern shore of Chichagof Island in Southeast Alaska. The 26,000-acre marine park is one of the largest in the state system, encompassing extensive shoreline and uplands. The harbor provides excellent shelter in a region known for challenging weather.

The extensive park supports diverse wildlife including brown bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, and smaller mammals. The large acreage provides habitat for wide-ranging species. Marine mammals including whales, seals, and sea otters frequent the harbor. Eagles nest throughout, and salmon streams attract predators.

Old-growth temperate rainforest covers the uplands, with some of the largest remaining trees in Southeast Alaska. The understory is lush with devil's club, salmonberry, and ferns. Stream corridors support salmon-nurturing vegetation. The park's size encompasses diverse habitats.

Chichagof Island displays varied geology including metamorphic rocks, volcanic formations, and granitic intrusions. The harbor occupies a protected indentation in the complex coastline. Glacial erosion shaped the regional topography during the ice ages.

Maritime climate brings mild temperatures and very high precipitation. The harbor's protected nature provides shelter from the storms that frequently affect the outer coast. Fog and rain are common, with occasional clear days revealing spectacular scenery.

Tlingit peoples have inhabited Chichagof Island for countless generations, with the harbor providing resources and shelter. The Russian name reflects the colonial period's influence. The large forested areas have attracted logging interest, though the marine park protects significant acreage.

Pavlov Harbor State Marine Park was established as one of the largest marine parks in Southeast Alaska. The extensive acreage protects significant wilderness values and provides room for extended exploration. The harbor has long been valued by mariners for its protection.

The extensive park offers multiple days of exploration. Brown bear viewing can be excellent during salmon runs. The old-growth forest provides outstanding hiking. The protected harbor allows comfortable anchorage during extended stays.

The marine park provides protected anchorage and primitive shore access. No developed facilities exist; visitors must be self-sufficient. Access is by boat from Sitka or other Southeast Alaska communities.

The large marine park protects significant old-growth forest and wildlife habitat. The extensive acreage helps maintain ecological processes and wildlife populations. The park represents a major conservation achievement in Southeast Alaska.