Karst is topography characterized by caves, sinkholes, and underground streams. About 700 square miles of karst topography exists on Prince of Wales Island . These have formed from limestone and marble bedrock dissolved by our abundant rainfall and karst ecosystem is one of the most productive ecosystems for both plant and animal communities in southeast Alaska. Caves are valuable for a variety of reasons, from recreational to scientific. The features and contents of caves are extremely fragile.
Caves are, essentially, nonrenewable resources.
Cave exploration and development is only just beginning. 775 El Capitan Cave Access Trail Trail is approximately 1300 feet in length, and climbs about 300 feet from the parking lot to the cave entrance. A gate has been installed inside the cave about 150 feet from the mouth to protect the cave resource and ensure the safety of visitors. Even the first 150 feet of the cave contains uneven footing and other hazards. The Thorne Bay District will also be conducting guided walks into the cave throughout the summer.