Cook Inlet

Cook Inlet is a large body of water in southern Alaska, stretching approximately 180 miles from the Gulf of Alaska inland to Anchorage. It connects the Pacific Ocean to lakes and rivers inland, serving as a critical navigation and transportation route. The inlet is characterized by diverse ecosystems, including tidal marshes, forests, and marine life like salmon, whales, and seabirds. It also features significant energy resources, such as oil and natural gas. Cook Inlet is vital for local communities, supporting fishing, industry, and recreation, and plays a key role in Alaska’s environmental and economic landscape.