Packing List - Prince of Wales Island, Wolf Study Expedition
The Tongass temperate rainforest covers prince of Wales the a myriad of surrounging islands creating a cool, wet climate.
The Conditions on Prince of Wales Island
The Environment
Prince of Wales Island, the largest in Alaska’s Alexander Archipelago, is covered by the Tongass Rainforest. The environment ranges from damp to drenched.
The island is covered by forest and punctuated by bogs, swampland, and grassland. Expect to do some exploring on small boats and to disembark in ankle to knee-deep water to explore the many karst islands surrounding POW Island.
The Weather and Temperature
Temperatures in late May/early June range from a high of 57 to a low of 43, with an average temperature of 50 degrees. It is cold and damp on Prince of Wales Island.
Two Places to check the weather: The Weather Underground and Time and Date
Pack light – but Smart. The key, as always, is layering
Note: This list was prepared by Kristen Cooney, naturalist, wildlife photographer, and tour leader with extensive experience leading tours in Alaska, and Roberta Kravette.
Footwear
From Roberta: The right footwear is paramount. Assume the ground will be damp to soggy with puddling. We may be walking in bogs, through high wet grass, and forest trails.
When in small boats, exploring any of the many karst islands will mean disembarking into ankle-to-knee-deep water. There are NO docks on the small islands. As Kristen advises: Waterproof, not water resistant, waterproof!
► Rubber or Neoprene Boots
►Hikers - Gore-Tex, over the ankle is best
From Kristen: My go-tos are Gore-Tex hiking shoes/trailrunners and Xtratufs; at least ankle-high waterproofing is ideal, but knee-high Xtratuf boots are not overkill
From Roberta: I always bring a pair of Gore-Tex or waterproof ankle-high Merrell’s and a pair of knee-high Hunter boots, which are not as tough as Xtratuf; but I bought them years ago for less arduous conditions, and they work. My Hunters are not lined or cushioned and get cold, so I’m bringing thick socks - see below.
► Socks
How many? 4-6 pairs One to wear, one freshly washed and drying in the lodge, one in your backpack, and 2 just in case.
From Kristen: Quick-drying quality merino wool socks are ideal; my preferred brand is Darn Tough.
From Darn Tough: [for hiking boots] “For that kind of wet hiking [in damp or wet conditions], I’d go lightweight and avoid heavy cushion. Merino is the move here because it still insulates when wet and won’t get swampy like cotton. I’d start with Light Hiker Micro Crew Lightweight Hiking Socks. They are lightweight, breathable, and sit just above your boot. The Women's Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Socks are the warmer backup if you run cold, but I’d lean toward lightweight first for nonstop rain”.
For an unlined knee-high rain boot, go with a taller, lightweight or midweight sock, not a super-thick one. Lightweight if you run warm, midweight if your feet get cold.
Top Layers
► Base layer: 3-4
From Kristen: Breathable but warm, will do you well in the rainforest most days.
Quick-drying base-layer hiking shirts from REI, or even a thermal base layer for colder days or days on the water, where that warmth will keep you more comfortable.
► Mid Layer
Lightweight jacket, like a sun hoodie, as extra protection against cold and wind.
Puffy! A puffy jacket cannot be your go-to outer layer in most cases because of rain and dampness; however, it is wonderful as a mid-layer.
► Shell:
Quality rain jacket, with Gore-Tex or similar waterproofing.
From Kristen: My go-to is a Gore-Tex Helly Hansen raincoat, mid-thigh-length, with fleece lining on the inside.
Also Marmot Patagonia
Bottom Layers
► Base Layer Pants:
Thermals like fleece-lined leggings or cargo pants are good for cooler days.
Flexible, water-resistant hiking pants also make for a solid all-around base layerIf you run cold, having thermal pants and hiking pants on top may be a more comfortable experience
► Base Shell Pants
Thin rain pants, properly waterproof
From Roberta: I am bringing a lightweight rain pant and jacket that slide over outside layers, are lightweight, and fold up into my backpack
► Daypack:
Your Daypack should be large enough to hold essentials for the day, but not overly large. You are not camping out. And it should be light enough to carry, and not bulky.
► Other Essentials and Good Ideas
You will want many of the items on the list below with you during the day.
Hand warmers, if you run cold, will keep you comfortable on colder, wetter days, especially on the water.
Work Gloves or plastic gloves. You will be dealing with scat and other.
Hat(s) The best hat is waterproof, has a brim all the way around, and can be secured.
Baseball caps tend to blow off on the water. Layer your baseball hat with a waterproof hat you can secure, or a knit cap on top for warmth and security. Knit caps will not keep you dry in the rain - and it will rain.
Sunglasses: I like to have my sunglasses on a chain
Sunscreen: When you are on the water, even when it is overcast and cool, your face can be sunburned.
Bug Spray: There is a good chance of mosquitoes; ticks are uncommon but sometimes found.
Binoculars: again, waterproof! If they are not, they will frequently fog up in the rain and ocean mist while on boats.
Rain fly for daypack: aka a backpack rain cover, this is a waterproof layer for your daypack on wetter days
Reusable water bottle
Snacks. Healthy snacks will be available, but if you have a favorite, bring it.
Tissue or paper towels: For everything. There are no restrooms once we are outside of the towns.
Female Urinal: These are some ideas for those of us not experts at outdoor relief.
Hand Sanitizer
Extra socks: Some folks like an extra pair of socks to change into if theirs get wet
Plastic bags: We do not usually encourage single-use plastic, but you DO want something to carry out used toilet paper, wet socks, or trash. Bring a couple and wash them out at night.
Hangers, foldable plastic with clips. I find these invaluable for travel everywhere. I pack light and rinse at night. These hangers ensure that i can hang my socks, undies, a shirt, or pants even if the lodge does not supply hangers. These have removable clips
Laundry Sheets: Make them biodegradable. Sheets are light and don’t spill onto my clothes! Seventh Generation is an idea
Personal Lighting Devices
When you travel, you should always carry a personal lighting device. I carry two. A small LED flashlight and a headlamp. And of course you have your mobile phone, but that uses its battery. I like to save the charge for communication purposes.
✓ Headlamp
There are lots of different styles. I’ve used mine on my head and in my hand. It is always in my backpack. I like a headlamp with an emergency flasher. Warning! Try it on if possible, make sure it can be tightened and secured for wear. I had one drop on the bridge of my nose - it was a memorable experience! head to REI for a wide choice and expert advice.✓ Flashlight, Small and Powerful
https://www.destinationwildlife.com/destination/north-america/prince-of-wales-island-advice
► Other: In Ketchikan, etc.
Ketchikan will have the same temperate rainforest conditions as on Prince of Wales Island. The key is to stay dry. Dry is warm, and warm is comfortable.
Nice Shirt - this itinerary and destination do not require “dressy” clothes.
I like to bring a nice shirt in case I want a change for dinner. Ladies, sometimes all you need is a wash-up and a fun pair of earrings to make all the difference.
Slippers or Flip-flops: The lodges can be cool - this is Alaska after-all. Keep your feet warm.
See the Prince of Wales Destination Guide, “Advice” for more on packing, logistics, and other questions