Snug Harbor Magic

You could be forgiven in thinking that Snug Harbor Outpost was actually a mythical place, a campfire tale passed down in Alaskan lore. With words such as magical, extraordinary, and amazing describing this small harbor on the southwestern shore of Chisik Island in the Cook Inlet, it can be difficult to believe this place actually exists.

An early explorer called the inlet “the forgotten shore," “deserted and desolate, a wilderness of barren rock and drifting snow, the battlefield of furious gales” (Ringsmuth, Katherine Johnson. Snug Harbor Cannery, National Park Service).

However, amongst the raging winds and the twenty-two foot high tides, there was a safe beacon of refuge and rest for early fisherman, now known as Snug Harbor. It was here over 100 years ago that a cannery was established. Accessible only by boat or plane, the remote cannery was integral to Alaska’s canned salmon industry. Fisherman, cannery workers, and their families would spend the summers on the island in a tight-knit, nurturing community. The children would swim, boat, fish, dig for clams and explore the island while their parents worked for the cannery, saying goodbye to their friends at the end of the season, only to reunite the following summer.

Growing up in this carefree, idyllic environment, children would often continue the family tradition of summer cannery work as they grew into teenagers and young adults. “We loved being here. It’s hard to explain, but it was a magical place,” says Abe Porter, fisherman and owner of Snug Harbor Outpost. In 1980, the cannery closed and remained unoccupied until it was sold to the Porter family in 2000, who jumped at the chance to own their childhood playground. The family poured not only time and money into restoring the cannery, but also a tremendous amount of love and affection. Today, guests of Snug Harbor Outpost can stay in the renovated cannery lodge that seamlessly blends modern comforts with early 20th century history. Activities can include bear viewing, fishing, fossil hunting, clam digging, hiking, and endless opportunities for breath-taking photography.

The island is home to over 180 species of birds and is a federally protected sanctuary where bald eagles, puffins, oystercatchers, and more make their nests in this undisturbed natural habitat. Snug Harbor Outpost also offers full-service, first-class charter halibut fishing experiences, customizable to accommodate everyone on the boat, from beginners to even the most advanced angler. Their bear viewing is intimate and personal, with guides boating guests to Tuxedni Bay and into Horsefly Slough, home to one of the most abundant brown bear populations in the world. View these majestic bears grazing, fishing, and sunning themselves all from the safety of a boat viewing deck. Once back at the Outpost, enjoy hearty family-style meals with locally sourced and seasonal food, ensuring that no one leaves the table hungry.

The Porter family is passionate about sharing their slice of Alaska with visitors and guests, “This is untouched Alaska where you are surrounded by wilderness and history.” Step away from developed cities into the unspoiled beauty of Alaska where you have a chance to truly connect with nature and experience the summer magic of Snug Harbor.

For more information and bookings visit: www.snugharboroutpost.com