Kake Airport

Remote Alaskan Tlingit village surrounded by pristine wilderness and water.

Kake is a small Tlingit Native community located on the northwest coast of Kupreanof Island in Southeast Alaska. With a population of just a few hundred residents, it offers an authentic glimpse into Indigenous Alaskan culture, traditional fishing practices, and rugged coastal life far from the tourist mainstream.

The town is notable for its totem poles, including one of the world's tallest, and for its access to exceptional fishing, wildlife watching, and forest wilderness. Visitors who make the effort to reach Kake are rewarded with genuine hospitality and unspoiled natural beauty typical of the Alexander Archipelago.

• •World's Tallest Totem Pole — a 132-foot landmark carved for the 1970 World's Fair and returned to Kake.
• •Kake Harbor — scenic working harbor reflecting the community's deep ties to commercial fishing.
• •Kupreanof Island Forests — old-growth Tongass National Forest trails ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting.
• •Salmon fishing — world-class king, silver, and pink salmon runs in surrounding waters.
• •Cultural Heritage Center — exhibits on Tlingit history, art, and traditions of the Kake community.
• •Portage Bay — kayaking and wildlife viewing with opportunities to see bears, eagles, and marine life.

Getting around: Kake has no roads connecting it to other towns, so transportation within the community is limited to walking or personal vehicles. Alaska Marine Highway ferries provide the primary sea link, and small floatplane services connect Kake to Petersburg and Juneau. There are no taxis, rideshares, or public bus services; visitors should arrange any vehicle needs in advance with locals or accommodations.

Best time: Summer months from June through August offer the mildest weather, longest daylight hours, and peak salmon fishing season.

Local food: Try freshly caught wild Alaskan salmon and Dungeness crab prepared simply by locals, along with traditional Tlingit foods like smoked fish and herring eggs on kelp when in season.

This guide is provided for general information only. Verify details locally before making travel decisions.