How to get to Klawock

Klawock is a colourful town on Prince of Wales Island in the USA, attracting travellers with the rich heritage of the indigenous Tlingit people and the magnificent nature of Alaska. You can reach this secluded corner by planning a route through neighbouring transport hubs by plane or by taking a scenic ferry crossing followed by a drive. A journey to Klawock promises to be a true adventure, opening access to dense forests and rugged seascapes.

Contrary to popular belief, the town is served by its own airport, which accepts light aviation flights and serves as an important link to the mainland. Most often, tourists arrive here via Ketchikan, which acts as the main hub for transferring from major airlines to local aircraft.

Flying over the archipelago not only saves time but also allows you to enjoy breathtaking views of the islands from above. Although the nearest airport is also located in the town of Hydaburg, a direct flight to Klawock remains the most convenient way to begin your journey without long overland transfers.

There is no railway connection to the town of Klawock, as the complex terrain of Prince of Wales Island and the nature of the local infrastructure do not support trains. You will not find the usual train stations here, which is characteristic of many remote settlements in Alaska.

Nearby settlements, such as Hydaburg, Ketchikan, and Wrangell, also do not have access to a railway network. Travellers are advised to rely on air travel or water transport combined with car rental.

Centralised intercity bus service to the town of Klawock is not developed, and finding regular routes here can be problematic. Public transport in this region is represented mainly by rare local shuttles, the schedule of which depends on the season.

For guaranteed movement around the island, tourists should arrange a private transfer in advance or consider renting a car. This will ensure the necessary mobility and independence from the complex logistics of public transport.

Travelling by car is an excellent way to enjoy the wild nature of the region. The fastest route runs from the town of Hydaburg: a distance of 56 km can be comfortably covered in approximately 55 minutes along a picturesque road.

The journey from the city of Ketchikan will require more complex logistics, often including a ferry crossing, and will take about 4.2 hours to cover 109 km. If you are departing from the town of Wrangell, be prepared for a long journey lasting about 11 hours to cover a distance of 270 km.

Preparing for a trip to Klawock requires attention to detail so that Alaska's changeable weather does not catch you off guard.

1. Clothing and Gear. The climate here is humid and cool. Be sure to bring a waterproof windbreaker, high-quality trekking boots, and clothing suitable for layering (thermal underwear, fleece).
2. Transport. Public transport is practically non-existent. For comfortable exploration of the surroundings, it is highly recommended to rent a reliable vehicle, preferably an SUV.
3. Finances. The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Major establishments accept cards, but cash is necessary for payments in small shops and for tips.
4. Health and Safety. Insects are active in the summer, so repellents are mandatory. Medical assistance is available, but serious cases may require evacuation, so ensure you have travel insurance.
5. Communication. The main language is English. Mobile signal may disappear when moving away from the town, so download offline maps in advance.
6. Local Etiquette. Respect the traditions of the indigenous peoples and the nature. It is customary here to greet strangers and leave tips in the range of 15–20%.
7. What to Avoid. Do not leave food in the car or outdoors unattended—this may attract bears, which are found in the vicinity.
8. Additional Tip. Do not miss the opportunity to visit the totem park—it is the town's hallmark and a unique monument to Tlingit history.

By following these simple recommendations, you can safely and comfortably immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this northern land.