Russell Fiord Wilderness

Located in the Tongass National Forest in Alaska.

Location: The Russell Fiord Wilderness of 348,701 acres lies 25 miles northeast of Yakutat between the rugged Fairweather Range to the northeast and the Brabazon Range to the southwest. The eastern boundary borders the new Brabazon Range addition to the Tongass National Forest.

Access: The most common form of access is by float plane from Juneau, 200 miles to the southeast, or by either float plane or boat from Yakutat, 12 miles west. In addition, there is limited access to within 2 miles of the area by road from Yakutat. Much of the area is composed of rugged peaks, glaciers, and icefields that severely restrict access.

Description: The most dramatic features of the Wilderness are the heavily glaciated Russell Fiord, which penetrates over 35 miles inland from Disenchantment Bay, and Nunatak Fiord, which forms a narrow, 15-mile channel to the southeast. There are numerous active glaciers above the ice-carved fiords. The area is of great scientific interest for its record of recent catastrophic geological events, post glacial ecological succession, and the effects of frequent earthquakes.

The area displays great scenic variety. Vegetation ranges from heavily forested river channels to alpine meadows at higher elevations. Situk Lake and the headwaters of the Situk Wild and Scenic River Study Area are within the Wilderness.

Mountain goats, wolves, brown and black bears, and numerous furbearers occupy much of the area. Harbor seals and sea lions utilize the major rivers and fiords. Shore birds, song birds, waterfowl and bald eagles are found in many parts of the Wilderness. Fisheries are fairly limited, with the exception of the lower reaches of Russell Fiord and the headwaters of the Ahrnklin. The cultural history of the area is lengthy and complex as it bears traces of the Yakutat Tlingits and Chugach Eskimo culture, as well as that of the Bremner River people. Evidence of Russian occupation and the remnants of more recent fortifications of World War II provide additional interest.

Facilities: Two forest service cabins are located within the Wilderness.

For further information contact: Sitka Ranger District - Tongass National Forest