Alaska's treeless, cliff-rimmed Pribilof Islands area consists of two small volcanic islands in the Bering Sea north of the Aleutians, in the extreme southwestern part of the state 800 mi/1,288 km southwest of Anchorage. St. George and St. Paul islands are famous for birds, wildflowers and North America's largest seal "haulout"—hundreds of thousands of northern fur seals bear their young there each summer. At least 220 species of birds have been identified on the cliffs of St. George, and an estimated 2.5 million seabirds nest there, along with reindeer and blue fox.
The islands, usually reached via airports on St. George or St. Paul islands, are toured by walking, climbing and stumbling over rocks and beaches to see the birds and seals. Not surprisingly, nature lovers and photographers are in heaven there. It's cold and often foggy or drizzly, and accommodations are basic, so be prepared. At least three nights are required to see the area completely, and arriving and departing flights may be delayed because of fog or high winds.
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