Christmas Island, approximately 200 feet (61 m) across, is located between Beecher Pass and Duncan Canal, about 15 miles (24 km) southwest of Petersburg, Alaska. The name was reported by fishermen in 1947 to the U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey. Beecher Pass is a navigable passage extending 3 miles (4.8 km) west from Wrangell Narrows to Duncan Canal. Initially named “Duncan Passage” in 1869 by Commander R.W. Meade, it was renamed “Beecher Pass” in 1887 by Lieutenant Commander C.M. Thomas of the U.S. Navy, in honor of Ensign Albert Morrison Beecher.

The Alaska State Parks system includes 35 marine parks, showcasing some of the state’s most pristine coastal areas. Mostly undeveloped, these parks are located in protected coves, along outer coastlines, in hidden bays, and on vast stretches of shoreline. The state marine parks in Southeast Alaska are situated within the Tongass National Forest, which covers most of the region and surrounds the famous Inside Passage. Visitors can observe eagles, bears, and spawning salmon, and enjoy breathtaking vistas of “wild” Alaska.

Beecher Pass State Marine Park comprises a series of small islands and coves that the local population extensively uses for fishing and hunting. This undeveloped park spans 660 acres (267 ha) and lacks road access. It includes Christmas, Fair, Pearl, Big Saltery, Little Saltery, Blowdown, and Jewell islands. Read more here and here. Explore more of Christmas Island here: