Kodiak Island is Alaska's biggest, ribbed with rugged mountains and rimmed by dark frothy ocean swells. With a population of 14,000, Kodiak, the island's "city", is no bustling metropolis but serves well as a gateway to forested interior and wave-washed slick rock shores. There are a number of ways to explore secluded seaside spots or penetrate the shadowy depths of seemingly untouched forest whether you're after an adventure on foot or in relative comfort. Animal life abounds, and even if you miss a glimpse of the infamously big and ferocious-looking Kodiak Bear it's hard not to be awed by the wild scenery.

Many visitors to Kodiak are lured by the fishing, and not without reason. Salmon, Halibut and Trout reach sizeable proportions here. Grab your pole for a day trip or rope in a bush pilot for a bit of isolated time on the river. Either way, it's unlikely you'll return home empty handed. Just keep an eye out for bears and be prepared to share the fishing. If you aren't keen on such a close encounter, view wildlife from the safety of a scenic cruise, but keep your binoculars ready.

There is an historic site or two to explore in Kodiak that date back to Russian occupation and it's not far to Fort Abercrombie State Park and Monashka Bay if it's a leg stretch and short beach stroll you're after.

There are about 100 miles of roads on the island, and a handful of car rental agencies in Kodiak though generally they frown upon using cars for off-roading. Optionally, procure bikes and explore harder to reach corners of Kodiak.

A float-plane can drop you at Shuyak Island State Park, 50 miles north of Kodiak. Rent kayaks on the island for some wildlife viewing but don't plan on doing much hiking as the foliage on Shuyak is dense and trails few.

Kodiak is 250 miles south of Anchorage by air.