Wrangell City and Borough, Alaska
Wrangell City and Borough is located in Southeast Alaska on Wrangell Island. It is one of Alaska’s oldest towns, with a history that dates back thousands of years. Fishing and logging were once the main industries, but tourism is becoming increasingly important.
Wrangell is located away from the usual cruise ship routes, making it quieter than many other Alaska towns. The nearby Stikine River delta is a popular spot for bird watching and fishing, while Petroglyph Beach is known for its ancient rock carvings.
Wrangell Mountain can be seen from the town on clear days, and bears are commonly found throughout the area. The borough is accessible only by plane or boat. Despite its small size, Wrangell has a strong sense of community. The town also hosts the Garnet Festival every year. Winters are relatively mild compared to other parts of Alaska, although they remain long and dark.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Borough Name | Wrangell City and Borough |
| Borough Seat | Wrangell |
| Population | Approximately 2,400 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Wrangell (the only incorporated community in the borough) |
| Interstates and Highways | None (No interstates; the Alaska Marine Highway provides transportation) |
| FIPS Code | 02-275 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 3,476 square miles (Land: 2,541 sq mi, Water: 935 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Boroughs and Census Areas (and Direction) | Petersburg Borough (North), Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area (West), Ketchikan Gateway Borough (Southwest) |
| Time Zone | Alaska Time Zone (AKT) |
| State | Alaska |
| Coordinates | 56.4708° N, 132.3767° W |
| Etymology | Named after Fort Wrangell |
| Major Landmarks | Stikine River, Anan Bear and Wildlife Observatory, Chief Shakes Tribal House, Petroglyph Beach State Historic Site, Wrangell Museum |
