Get Away From It All At A Remote, Rugged, And Breathtaking Alaskan Island Devoid Of Trees

Unalaska, Alaska, feels like the edge of the world. Tucked in the windswept Aleutian Islands, it lies 800 miles southwest of Anchorage in the Bering Sea, making it one of the most remote communities in the United States. Known as the gateway to the Aleutians, Unalaska has the largest island population in the chain, swelling from 4,000 residents in winter to 10,000 during the summer, due to fishing, seasonal workers, and Alaska's high tourist season. Fans of "Deadliest Catch" might recognize its bustling International Port of Dutch Harbor, the beating heart of the island's massive commercial fishing industry.

The journey to Unalaska underscores its remoteness. Accessible only by boat or plane, Unalaska gives visitors the option of taking a 2.5-hour flight from Anchorage via Ravn Alaska, Alaska Airlines, or air taxi. Alternatively, adventurers can board the Alaska Marine Highway Ferry System from Homer, about a 3.5-day voyage that operates in the summer. Upon arrival, travelers are greeted by a rugged, treeless landscape shaped by volcanic forces and fierce winds. Green valleys sprinkled with vibrant wildflowers roll into craggy shorelines and bays, while distant snowcapped peaks, volcanoes, and the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean create an awe-inspiring backdrop. Unalaska's boundless vistas and untamed beauty make it a haven for those seeking a true, far-off adventure, especially people looking for a DIY Alaska vacation.

Unalaska offers outdoor enthusiasts unparalleled adventures, starting with its world-renowned fishing. Dutch Harbor is the nation's number one commercial fishing port by volume, hauling in millions of metric tons annually. Visitors can charter boats and skilled captains to help reel in impressive halibut catches — some tipping the scales at over 400 pounds — or try their hand at catching salmon or king crab. Along the way, marine wildlife, including humpback whales and sea lions, adds to the surreal natural environment.

Hiking is another worthy use of your time, with trails crisscrossing the island's treeless terrain, largely caused by the gale force winds that are known to strike with mad frequency. The lack of bears adds peace of mind as you stroll along through the rolling hills blanketed in wildflowers. Popular routes include the ascent of Mount Ballyhoo, home to historic World War II fortifications, and Goose Lake Trail, which provides endless sweeping views of the valleys and ocean. 

Birding devotees will find a paradise here, as the island is home to a stunning variety of bird species. The whiskered auklet, one of the rarest birds in the U.S., can be spotted at the eastern end of Unalaska. Along the waterline, tufted and horned puffins mingle with gulls and murrelets, while on land, eagles and ravens soar overhead. Guided bird tours, including visits to the Baby Islands, a bird sanctuary just 16 miles off shore, showcase this avian wonderland.

Unalaska's windswept shores hold stories of resilience and history. Among the island's most prominent landmarks is the Russian Orthodox Cathedral of the Holy Ascension of Christ, a cruciform-style church built in 1896. Overlooking the bay, it is the oldest Russian-built church still standing in Alaska and a testament to the island's cultural heritage. 

For history buffs, the Aleutian World War II National Historic Area provides an in-depth look at the island's wartime significance. Inside an original air control tower, the visitor center tells the story of Dutch Harbor's 1942 bombing by Japanese forces. Nearby, Fort Schwatka on Mount Ballyhoo — the highest coastal battery ever built in the U.S. — still stands as a reminder of the Aleutians' strategic importance. Concrete bunkers, barracks, and gun emplacements are common sights on the island, creating an open-air museum of wartime artifacts. The Museum of the Aleutians offers a broader perspective of the region's history, highlighting the lives of Alaska Natives and the enduring impact of Russian and American influences. Another unique landmark is the Sitka Spruce Plantation, a National Historic Landmark commemorating the Russians' efforts to grow trees on the treeless island. This afforestation project is the oldest recorded in North America and a fascinating nod to the valiant human efforts in aiming to modify Unalaska's harsh natural environment.

While it may not be one of Alaska's most visited attractions, Unalaska's combination of stark natural beauty, remote ruggedness, and rich history makes it an unforgettable destination for those looking to venture into the outlying lands of wild Alaska.