Bogoslof Wilderness

Bogoslof Wilderness is a volcanic area in the Aleutian Islands featuring a prominent rock spire known as Castle Rock that rises sharply above dark lava fields and rocky shores. The landscape consists of steep cliffs and jagged formations exposed directly to the Bering Sea, creating an isolated and inhospitable terrain.

The island formed following an underwater volcanic eruption in 1796 and experienced several periods of volcanic activity through the 19th and 20th centuries. President Theodore Roosevelt designated it as a protected refuge in 1909 to safeguard the region's marine wildlife.

In 1909, President Theodore Roosevelt established the area as a sanctuary for marine wildlife, recognizing its importance for seabird and marine mammal populations.

Visiting requires special permits from refuge officials, and there are no suitable anchorage points available. Strong winds and severe ocean storms occur regularly, so prepare for harsh and unpredictable weather conditions year-round.

The refuge hosts approximately 90,000 seabirds, including tufted puffins that breed here and follow a rare migration path. Meanwhile, fur seal populations are growing while sea lion colonies have declined significantly in recent decades.