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Elfin Cove

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Beautiful, quaint and out-of-the-way, Elfin Cove lies half hidden on the northern shore of Chichagof Island, 85 miles west of Juneau.

About Elfin Cove

Boardwalks connect buildings and homes in this community of only 20 year-round residents that sits across from Glacier Bay National Park near the rich fishing grounds in Cross Sound. Elfin Cove’s boardwalks are built on pilings as are many of the homes. Surrounded by the Tongass National Forest, the community becomes active during the summer when local businesses serve the commercial fishing fleet, and guests fill the sportfishing lodges.

Things to do

Visitors are attracted to the area’s stunning scenery, wildlife, world-class sportfishing and the adventure of visiting such an isolated community. Fishermen are drawn to year-round fishing for halibut, ling cod, rockfish and salmon. Kayaking the protected waters of Chichagof Island is also popular, along with viewing wildlife, hiking and beachcombing. Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is a short boat ride from Elfin Cove. Port Althorp Bear Preserve, the Port Althorp Cannery site and the World War II cannon emplacement on George’s Island are all within 20 minutes by boat as well.

Elfin Cove

There is no mainland road access to Elfin Cove nor is the community part of the Alaska Marine Highway route. Elfin Cove does have a state-owned seaplane base and most visitors arrive on charter air taxi flights from Juneau.

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Elfin Cove

Most visitors to Elfin Cove arrive as part of package trips offered by the sportfishing lodges that combine accommodations, meals wildlife viewing, photo safaris and charter fishing in single price.

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Attractions

Brady Glacier +

Located across Cross Sound from Elfin Cove is Brady Glacier, a beautiful and active tidewater glacier set deep in Taylor Bay and part of Glacier Bay National Park.
Charter Fishing +

Charter fishing opportunities are offered through the sportfishing lodges based in Elfin Cove for king, silver, sockeye, chum, and pink salmon along with ling cod, rockfish, salmon sharks and halibut.
Port Althorp Bear Preserve +

Located on north Chichagof Island, Port Althorp is a bear sanctuary where hunting has been banned since 1984. The result is a popular destination for viewing brown bears just minutes from Elfin Cove.
Whale Watching +

Excellent whale watching exists right outside your window. Sportfishing lodges can arrange half and full-day whale watching trips.