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Hawk Inlet Seaplane Base (HWI) is a remote floatplane landing area on the west side of Admiralty Island in Southeast Alaska, near the Greens Creek Mine and the Hawk Inlet area. It has no road connection to the mainland and primarily supports charter flights, mine operations, and recreation in the Tongass National Forest. The base is known for its sheltered inlet setting, tide-dependent water conditions, and access to Admiralty Island's renowned bear habitat.
💡 Local Tip
Frequent visitors watch the tide and afternoon winds: low tide can expose mudflats near the landing area, while afternoon chop can make pickup timing tricky. Carry bear spray and keep a clean camp—Admiralty Island has one of the world's densest brown bear populations.
🚖 Getting There
Most travelers reach HWI by charter floatplane from Juneau, a short flight over Stephens Passage that is weather-dependent. Boat access is possible but exposed and tide-sensitive, so coordinate with a local operator. There is no road or ferry service to the base; arrange all onward transport before departure.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is Hawk Inlet Seaplane Base located?
A: It is on the western shore of Admiralty Island in Southeast Alaska, roughly 18 miles southwest of Juneau across Stephens Passage. The base sits at Hawk Inlet and serves the nearby Greens Creek area.
Q: What facilities are available at HWI?
A: Expect minimal or no public facilities; there is no paved runway, terminal, or scheduled airline service. Any dock, fuel, or shelter depends on private operators, so confirm services before arrival.
Q: How do I reach Hawk Inlet Seaplane Base?
A: Access is by floatplane or boat, usually from Juneau. Charter seaplane operators can land in the inlet when weather and tides allow; there are no roads to the site.
Q: Is there scheduled service to HWI?
A: No, HWI is not served by scheduled airlines. Travel is typically arranged through charter floatplane companies, lodges, or mine-related operators.
AI-generated content · Generated Sep 27, 2026 · deepseek-v4.1-flash