Cities and Towns in Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area, Alaska
Founded in, Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area is one of 20 boroughs in the state of Alaska. The city of is the borough seat. With FIPS code of 198, Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area has a population of 5,729 and area of 5,268 square miles (13,644 km²).
List of all cities in Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area, AK alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Coffman Cove, AK | 99918 | 907 |
| Craig, AK | 99921 | 907 |
| Hydaburg, AK | 99922 | 907 |
| Hyder, AK | 99923 | 907 |
| Ketchikan, AK | 99903 | 907 |
| 99918 | 907 | |
| 99919 | 907 | |
| Klawock, AK | 99925 | 907 |
| Metlakatla, AK | 99926 | 907 |
| Meyers Chuck, AK | 99903 | 907 |
| Point Baker, AK | 99927 | 907 |
| Thorne Bay, AK | 99919 | 907 |
Major Cities and Towns in Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area, Alaska
Craig
- Area: 9.4 square miles
- Population: 1,036 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 99921
- Latitude and Longitude: 55.4761° N, 133.1481° W
Location and History
Craig is the largest city on Prince of Wales Island and one of the main communities in the Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area. It is located on the western side of the island, along the shores of Craig Harbor. Craig was originally founded in 1907 as a fish saltery by Craig Millar, a local entrepreneur. The town grew rapidly in the early 20th century as the fishing industry expanded, with several canneries and sawmills operating in the area. Craig was officially incorporated in 1922 and has since developed into a central hub for commerce, education, and transportation on Prince of Wales Island. The economy of Craig remains closely tied to fishing, both commercial and sport, as well as logging and tourism. The town’s picturesque harbor and access to abundant natural resources make it a popular destination for anglers, boaters, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Craig is served by the Craig City School District, with Craig High School providing education for students from the town and surrounding areas. Notable landmarks in Craig include the Craig Tribal Association, which plays a key role in preserving and promoting the culture and traditions of the indigenous Tlingit people. The nearby Klawock Totem Park features a collection of totem poles that tell the stories and history of the local Native community. Additionally, Craig’s harbor is a focal point of the town, offering facilities for commercial and recreational fishing, as well as serving as a gateway for exploring the nearby islands and wilderness areas. The annual Craig Fourth of July Celebration is a major event that includes parades, games, and fireworks, drawing visitors from across the island. Craig’s rich history, cultural heritage, and beautiful natural surroundings make it a vibrant and welcoming community on Prince of Wales Island.
Klawock
- Area: 1.6 square miles
- Population: 791 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 99925
- Latitude and Longitude: 55.5525° N, 133.0958° W
Location and History
Klawock is a small city located on the western coast of Prince of Wales Island, just a few miles north of Craig. The town has a deep history rooted in the Tlingit culture, with the original village site being used for seasonal fishing camps for thousands of years. The modern settlement of Klawock was established in the late 19th century, and it became the site of the first salmon cannery in Alaska, built in 1878. The town was incorporated in 1929 and has since grown as a center for fishing, logging, and cultural preservation. Klawock is particularly known for its totem poles, which are among the oldest and most significant in Alaska. The town continues to maintain its strong connection to its Native heritage, with many residents engaged in traditional crafts, fishing, and subsistence activities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Klawock is served by the Klawock City School District, with Klawock School providing education from kindergarten through 12th grade. The town is home to several important cultural landmarks, including the Klawock Totem Park, which features 21 restored and replicated totem poles that are of great cultural and historical significance to the Tlingit people. The totem poles tell the stories of the Raven and Eagle clans and are an integral part of the community’s cultural identity. Another key landmark is the Prince of Wales Hatchery, which supports the local fishing industry by enhancing salmon populations in the region. The nearby Klawock River is famous for its salmon runs and attracts anglers from across the region. Klawock’s annual events, such as the Totem Pole Raising Ceremony and the Klawock Culture Camp, celebrate the town’s rich cultural heritage and foster a strong sense of community. The town’s blend of history, cultural significance, and natural beauty make Klawock a unique and vital part of Prince of Wales Island.
Thorne Bay
- Area: 29.9 square miles
- Population: 476 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 99919
- Latitude and Longitude: 55.6872° N, 132.5236° W
Location and History
Thorne Bay is a small city located on the eastern coast of Prince of Wales Island, nestled in a large, sheltered bay. The town was established in the 1960s as a logging camp and quickly grew into one of the largest logging operations in North America. Thorne Bay was incorporated in 1982, and while the logging industry has since declined, the town remains an important community on the island. The economy of Thorne Bay has diversified, with tourism, fishing, and small-scale timber operations playing key roles. The town is known for its scenic beauty, with the surrounding Tongass National Forest providing a backdrop of dense forests, mountains, and waterways. Thorne Bay’s remote location and natural environment make it a popular destination for outdoor recreation, including fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Thorne Bay is served by the Southeast Island School District, with Thorne Bay School providing education from kindergarten through 12th grade. The town is home to several landmarks that reflect its logging history, including the Thorne Bay Seaplane Base, which was once a hub for transporting logs and workers. The nearby South Thorne Bay Campground and the Thorne Bay Ranger District offer access to trails, fishing spots, and the natural beauty of the Tongass National Forest. The annual Thorne Bay Day celebration brings the community together with events such as parades, games, and a logging show, paying homage to the town’s roots in the timber industry. Thorne Bay’s combination of history, outdoor adventure, and community spirit make it a welcoming and picturesque community on Prince of Wales Island.
Hydaburg
- Area: 0.3 square miles
- Population: 354 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 99922
- Latitude and Longitude: 55.2092° N, 132.8283° W
Location and History
Hydaburg is a small city located on the southwest coast of Prince of Wales Island. It is the largest Haida community in Alaska and was established in 1911 when several smaller Haida villages consolidated into one. The town’s name, Hydaburg, means “Haida village” and reflects its roots in the Haida culture, which has a rich history of art, particularly in totem pole carving, weaving, and canoe building. Hydaburg was incorporated in 1927, and over the years, it has maintained a strong focus on preserving and revitalizing its cultural heritage. The local economy is centered around fishing, subsistence activities, and cultural tourism. Hydaburg’s residents continue to practice traditional Haida crafts and cultural activities, making it a vibrant center for Haida culture in Alaska.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hydaburg is served by the Hydaburg City School District, with Hydaburg City School providing education from kindergarten through 12th grade. The town is home to several important cultural landmarks, including the Hydaburg Totem Park, which features some of the finest examples of Haida totem poles, many of which have been restored or newly carved by local artists. The Haida Cultural Center is another key landmark, serving as a place for the community to gather, learn, and celebrate their heritage through various cultural programs and workshops. The nearby Eek Inlet and Hydaburg River are popular spots for fishing and outdoor activities, offering opportunities to experience the natural beauty of the region. Hydaburg’s annual Culture Camp and Totem Pole Raising Ceremony are significant events that draw participants from across the Haida Nation and beyond, highlighting the town’s role as a cultural beacon for the Haida people. The town’s rich cultural heritage, strong sense of community, and stunning coastal location make Hydaburg a unique and important part of Prince of Wales Island.
Coffman Cove
- Area: 14.6 square miles
- Population: 176 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 99918
- Latitude and Longitude: 56.0125° N, 132.8272° W
Location and History
Coffman Cove is a small city located on the northeast coast of Prince of Wales Island, overlooking Clarence Strait. The town was originally established as a logging camp in the 1950s and later grew into a small community as families settled in the area. Coffman Cove was incorporated in 1989, and while logging played a significant role in its early development, the town has since shifted towards tourism, fishing, and small-scale timber operations. The town’s location provides access to some of the best fishing waters in southeastern Alaska, making it a popular destination for anglers and boaters. Coffman Cove is known for its stunning natural surroundings, with views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and waterways.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Coffman Cove is served by the Southeast Island School District, with students typically attending schools in nearby towns such as Thorne Bay. The town is known for its peaceful atmosphere and outdoor recreation opportunities. A key landmark in Coffman Cove is the Coffman Cove Marina, which serves as the gateway for fishing charters, boat tours, and recreational boating. The nearby Luck Lake provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping, offering a quiet retreat in the heart of the Tongass National Forest. The annual By the Sea Arts & Seafood Festival celebrates the town’s connection to the ocean and local arts, featuring seafood, crafts, and live music. Coffman Cove’s combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and community events make it a charming and welcoming place on Prince of Wales Island.
Map of Cities in Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area, AK
