Discover the Aleutian Islands: Volcanic Islands, Culture and History

The Aleutian Islands stretch for more than 1,200 miles and include more than 70 volcanic islands. Their vast extent makes it useful to choose a specific focus for your trip: are you most interested in cultural history, seasonal wildlife viewing or hiking? The islands bring together thousands of years of human history, traces of World War II and an extensive protected area, offering a wide range of themes for planning your trip.

Cultural History and Traces of World War II

The Unangax̂ have lived in the Aleutian Islands for more than 8,000 years. The Anangula Site is considered the earliest known human settlement in the island chain; the Chaluka Site, a National Historic Landmark, represents several periods of early Aleut culture. The Museum of the Aleutians also holds archaeological material documenting 9,000 years of human presence in the region. The Church of the Holy Ascension is associated with early Russian missionary activity in the Aleutian Islands and Father Ioann Veniaminov. The present church building was constructed between 1894 and 1896 on the sites of two earlier churches.

World War II is another defining part of the region’s history. The Aleutian Islands World War II Visitor Center is housed in a historic building that was used as a weather station building at the time. Fort Schwatka and Battery 402 are located at the summit of Mount Ballyhoo, overlooking Unalaska Bay. The Battery sits 897 feet above sea level and is the highest-elevation battery in the United States. Kiska was the first of two Aleutian Islands occupied by Japan; in 1943, Japan successfully withdrew its entire force from the island without a single fatality. Attu was the site of the only World War II battle fought in North America. The Army and Navy bases on Adak enabled American forces to launch a successful offensive against Japanese-held Attu and Kiska.

Nature and Wildlife Viewing

The Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge stretches from the volcanic islands of the Aleutian chain to the Inside Passage and the Chukchi Sea region. It provides important habitat for marine mammals and around 40 million seabirds from more than 30 species. Most of the refuge is federally designated wilderness. Alongside the historic sites, this vast protected landscape is a central feature of the Aleutian Islands.

Which animals you can see depends on the season: sea otters, orcas, humpback whales, sea lions and numerous bird species are all possible sightings. Humpback whales are often seen off the coast of Unalaska in summer and fall. A ferry crossing can also offer opportunities for birdwatching: birds can be spotted from the vessel in the pass between Akutan Island and Unalaska Island. Sightings vary depending on the season and conditions.

Hiking Trails and Specific Routes

The Aleutian Islands offer a range of hiking experiences. The Beluga Slough Trail runs from the Visitor Center through a wetland to Bishop’s Beach. The trail consists of gravel paths and boardwalks; because trail details are maintained, it is a good idea to check conditions before your visit. Numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty are located near downtown Unalaska.

The Bunker Hill Hike is a moderately challenging climb of about one mile, with an elevation gain of around 400 feet. It follows a gravel road dating from World War II and passes prehistoric sites as well as numerous wartime ruins. The route offers views of the Dutch Harbor and Captains Bay areas. The Peace of Mind Trail is a three-mile loop through private land and a national conservation area; check the latest land-use notices in advance, as requirements may change. Dutch Harbor Spit offers a short, sea-level walk with beach access, wildlife viewing and birdwatching. From the Ulakta Head and Fort Schwatka Trail, you can drive or walk to the preserved remains of Fort Schwatka. Be sure to check current trail and land-use notices.

Getting There and Trip Planning

The Southwest region of the Alaska Marine Highway System extends from the Kodiak Island Archipelago, along the Alaska Peninsula and the Aleutian chain, to Dutch Harbor. The system operates seasonal ferry service to several Aleutian ports, including Dutch Harbor. Schedules may change seasonally or due to operational circumstances, so check current service before traveling. Adak is one of the few places in the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge accessible by a commercial airline. Flight schedules may also change.

The cultural sites, hiking trails and travel options listed here are located in different places. Focus your search on the places and experiences you want to shape your trip, rather than treating the Aleutian Islands as a single base.

Discover more destinations: Aleutians West Census Area, Sitka, Kenai Peninsula, Valdez-Cordova Census Area, Juneau, Nome Census Area, Wade Hampton Census Area, Fairbanks North Star Borough.

Return to the main travel overview: Alaska.