Tracy Arm

Tracy Arm is a fjord that stretches through the Tongass National Forest with steep granite walls that tower roughly 3,000 feet (900 meters) above the water. The narrow waterway features clear, cold water and abundant wildlife moving through the surrounding terrain.

The fjord received its name from Benjamin Franklin Tracy, who served as Secretary of the Navy under President Harrison. The naming reflects historical ties between the U.S. Navy and the exploration of this remote region.

The waterway contains numerous research stations where scientists study marine ecosystems and document the changes in glacial formations throughout seasons.

The site is best visited from May through September when boat tours depart regularly from Juneau. The waters can be rough and filled with floating ice, so visitors should dress warmly and follow all safety instructions on board.

At the fjord's end sit two large glaciers that continuously calve ice chunks into the water, creating an ever-changing maze of floating blocks. Ships must navigate around these shifting ice obstacles, making each visit different from the last.

Location: Hoonah–Angoon Census Area

GPS coordinates: 57.91139,-133.40222

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:01