Introduction

The United States Congress designated the Tebenkof Bay Wilderness (map) in 1980 and it now has a total of 66,812 acres. All of this wilderness is located in Alaska and is managed by the Forest Service. The Tebenkof Bay Wilderness is bordered by the Kuiu Wilderness to the south.

Description

A complex system of bays with many small islands, islets, and coves is the prominent feature of Tebenkof Bay Wilderness on Kuiu Island. The land is covered by a thick forest of Western hemlock, Sitka spruce, and Alaska yellow cedar, muskeg, and alpine areas. The southern boundary of this Wilderness marks the northern boundary of Kuiu Wilderness, and the two are managed practically as one. The western side is bounded by Chatham Straits, a body of water exposed to open ocean, and frequently unsafe for boating. Some older publications list the Aleck's Creek Portage Trail; this route is no longer maintained and not advised as a portage. Campers are encouraged to camp on durable surfaces: gravel and sand beaches are the best but be sure to check your tide table and set up your tent above that nights tideline.

Planning to Visit the Tebenkof Bay Wilderness?

• Print a fact sheet
• General things to consider when visiting any wilderness
• Regulations
• Contact the Forest Service
• Visit the National Forest wilderness website

Leave No Trace

How to follow the seven standard Leave No Trace principles differs in different parts of the country (desert vs. Rocky Mountains). Click on any of the principles listed below to learn more about how they apply in the Tebenkof Bay Wilderness.

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
6. Respect Wildlife
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

For more information on Leave No Trace, Visit the Leave No Trace, Inc. website.