The Alaska Panhandle is a spectacular region of glacier-cut fjords and islands covered with dense rainforest. Its primary industries are tourism, fishing, and logging. The Panhandle’s population of approximately 73,000 is primarily engaged in these industries, with the exception of Juneau.
Travel through the region is mostly by boat and float plane as there are very few roads. It is also home to Tlingit and Haida natives who have lived here for many centuries. They are famous for their totem poles and many fine examples can be found throughout Southeast Alaska.
The natural beauty of Southeast is most evident when you visit the Tongass National Forest, Glacier Bay National Park, Admiralty Island National Monument and Misty Fjords National Monument.
Southeast Alaska is served by the state-run Alaska Marine Highway that has proudly served the area since 1959. They operate eleven ferries that offer convenient schedules between all Southeast Alaska cities, Bellingham, Washington and Prince Rupert, British Columbia.
This is both the wettest and warmest part of Alaska with mild temperatures in winter and high precipitation the entire year.
