Hike To A Piece Of World War II History In Alaska On The Bunker Hill Trail
If you’re in Unalaska and looking for a beautiful short hike, the Bunker Hill Trail combines an easy hike, a beautiful view, and fascinating history for a great afternoon out. This is the perfect trail for a hike with family, as it’s easy enough and you are rewarded with a stunning panorama at the top.
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There's fascinating World War II history in this area, and there's a gorgeous, short hike that will lead you to the remnants of a World War II bunker.
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Because of the lack of trees on the island, this made for a strategic location to situate a watch post for the coastal defense of the area. It was erected after the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor in 1942.
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Foundations are still visible from where the stationary guns were placed. They were situated in a place that they could actually fire from all 360 degrees.
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There are two ways to hike it, starting from the old military road or the trail side facing Iliuliuk Harbor. The trail side is a little steeper, but both offer great views. If you're coming from the military road side there are no cars allowed, so you'll have to hike in from farther away.
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That, however, is all gained in a single mile, so there are switch backs to make it much easier to climb. The view is worth it, as you can even see pods of whales swimming through the bay in the summer. You may even see a pod of harbor porpoises.
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Check out bird's eye views of Captains Bay, Amaknak Island, Unalaska Bay, and Iliuliuk Harbor. This is also a great birding spot and you may even catch a glimpse of bald eagles, black oystercatchers, marbled murrelets, guillemots, or cormorants.
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Next time you're on the gorgeous island of Unalaska, be sure to take a quick hike up the Bunker Hill Trail to see panoramic views of the island you're staying on! You won't regret it.
Have you had a chance to climb the Bunker Hill Trail? What did you think? Would you do it again? Let us know in the comments below!
Learn more about Unalaska and check out The Remote Alaskan Island You’ll Want To Spend More Time Exploring!
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650 Ballyhoo Rd, Unalaska, AK 99692, USA