St. James Bay State Marine Park
🏆🏆🏆 Lynn Canal Marine — Sheltered bay on Lynn Canal — North America’s longest and deepest fjord
St. James Bay State Marine Park protects a sheltered bay on the western shore of Lynn Canal between Juneau and Haines. Lynn Canal is North America’s longest (over 60 miles) and deepest (over 2,000 feet) fjord. The park provides calm anchorage surrounded by Sitka spruce rainforest, with views across the canal to the Chilkat Range. Humpback whales, Steller sea lions, and harbor porpoises frequent the waters.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Lynn Canal, AK (between Juneau & Haines) |
| Access | Boat |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Fjord | Lynn Canal (longest/deepest in N. America) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Lynn Canal special?
At over 60 miles long and 2,000+ feet deep, Lynn Canal is North America’s longest and deepest fjord. The steep-walled channel funnels powerful tidal currents and weather — check marine forecasts before crossing.
About St. James Bay
St. James Bay State Marine Park near Juneau protects a scenic bay on the Lynn Canal, accessible by boat from Alaska’s capital. The bay offers camping in old-growth temperate rainforest with abundant wildlife. Humpback whales and Steller sea lions frequent the nearby waters, and brown bears forage along the shoreline.
Things to Do
Camping in the old-growth forest, whale watching, bear viewing from a safe distance, sea kayaking, fishing, and exploring the Inside Passage. Access by boat or kayak from Juneau.
Insider Tips
Lynn Canal beauty: St. James Bay sits on Lynn Canal — North America’s longest and deepest fjord (90 miles long, 2,000 feet deep). Pro tip: The Alaska Marine Highway ferry from Juneau to Haines/Skagway passes through Lynn Canal — one of the most scenic ferry rides in the world. Photography: Snow-capped peaks rising directly from sea level create dramatic perspectives.
Best Time to Visit
June-August: Best boating weather. July: Humpback whales feeding in the canal. Fall: Bald eagles concentrate as salmon runs end. Winter: Spectacular but extreme conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Alaska Marine Highway?
Alaska’s state ferry system connects 33 communities across 3,500 miles of coast — from Bellingham, Washington to Dutch Harbor in the Aleutians. It’s one of the great sea voyages in the world and the only way to reach many Southeast Alaska towns.
🏔️ Visit St. James Bay SMP
North America’s deepest fjord — sheltered bay on Lynn Canal with whales and mountain views.
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