How do I access Woodpecker Cove?

Woodpecker Cove is a public boat ramp in Alaska. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Woodpecker Cove?

Woodpecker Cove supports sea kayaking, stand up paddleboarding. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Woodpecker Cove?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Woodpecker Cove?

The best time to paddle at Woodpecker Cove is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at Woodpecker Cove?

Water conditions at Woodpecker Cove include open water, tidal.

Is Woodpecker Cove good for beginners?

Yes, Woodpecker Cove is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Sheltered ocean with tidal influence. Time your paddle around slack tide for the easiest conditions. Suitable for beginners with basic awareness of tidal flow.

Jagged coastal cliffs with evergreen trees and ocean waves

Photo by Heather Steffey on Unsplash

Activity

Sea KayakingSUPBeginner

Conditions

OceanOpen WaterTidal

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Woodpecker Cove

Wrangell, AK · Boat Ramp · Public

Woodpecker Cove is a public boat ramp on Pacific Ocean - Sumner Strait near Wrangell, Alaska. This beginner-level spot offers sea kayaking, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

Ocean

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Sea Kayaking, SUP

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

Sheltered ocean with tidal influence. Time your paddle around slack tide for the easiest conditions. Suitable for beginners with basic awareness of tidal flow.

About This Location

Public launch on Pacific Ocean - Sumner Strait in Alaska. Beginner-friendly ocean paddling near Wrangell.

For ocean paddling in Alaska, Woodpecker Cove provides a launch into Pacific Ocean - Sumner Strait where tidal patterns and coastal winds shape each outing.

Sea kayakers can use this as a base to explore the coastline and nearby features. Stand-up paddleboarding is popular here when winds are light, especially in the morning hours.

Water conditions are generally open water and tidal. June through August is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Getting here from Wrangell takes about 25 min, putting Woodpecker Cove within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

Paddling Tips

•Practice self-rescue techniques before venturing into ocean waters.
•Check tide tables and swell forecasts before launching.
•Always paddle with a buddy in open ocean conditions.
•Carry a marine VHF radio or waterproof phone for emergencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Woodpecker Cove?: Woodpecker Cove is a public boat ramp in Alaska. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Woodpecker Cove?: Woodpecker Cove supports sea kayaking, stand up paddleboarding. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Woodpecker Cove?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Woodpecker Cove?: The best time to paddle at Woodpecker Cove is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Woodpecker Cove?: Water conditions at Woodpecker Cove include open water, tidal.
Is Woodpecker Cove good for beginners?: Yes, Woodpecker Cove is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Sheltered ocean with tidal influence. Time your paddle around slack tide for the easiest conditions. Suitable for beginners with basic awareness of tidal flow.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 56.5008, -132.8226