Is It Possible to Walk from Little Diomede to Big Diomede?

Little Diomede and Big Diomede are two uninhabited islands located in the Bering Strait between the United States (U.S.) and Russia. While these islands have a rich history and strategic importance, efforts to physically travel between them often face significant challenges. In this article, we will explore the reasons why walking from Little Diomede to Big Diomede is not feasible and the various limitations associated with traveling to these islands.

Overview of the Islands

Little Diomede and Big Diomede are among the most distant points from each other on either side of the Bering Strait. They are part of the U.S. and Russian territories respectively, separated by a distance of about 2-2.5 miles. Although the ocean may freeze during the winter months, the ice is not stable enough to support foot travel, and the journey would still entail hazardous conditions.

Can You Walk Across?

While it is theoretically possible to walk from Big Diomede to Little Diomede in the winter when the ocean ice freeze, the ice is often unstable, and other harsh conditions like ocean swells and tidal shifts make such an attempt highly dangerous. The journey would be a perilous undertaking and not advisable for any unprepared or unsuitable individuals.

Travel to Big Diomede

Due to security and diplomatic reasons, travel to Big Diomede is restricted. Only the Russian military can enter the island with special permission, and the U.S. military is present on Little Diomede. If you do not have the necessary permissions, attempting to reach Big Diomede would be impossible. Additionally, there is no established public or private transport route to the island, and attempting to swim the 2-mile distance is not recommended due to the dangerous conditions.

Legal and Safety Considerations

Traveling between the two islands is not legally feasible due to their status as different countries (U.S. and Russia). There is no immigration presence on either side, but local residents would be hesitant to assist unarranged travelers. Little Diomede has no hotel accommodations, and Big Diomede is not a populated area. If you do attempt to travel to these islands, it is crucial to exercise extreme caution and plan thoroughly to ensure safety.

Conclusion

While the possibilities of traveling between Little Diomede and Big Diomede might seem intriguing, the practical challenges are significant. Safety, legality, and the hostile environment make such an endeavor highly discouraged. The islands' isolation and the complex international relations governing them pose substantial barriers to direct travel. For those with a deep interest in the Bering Strait region, researching alternative means of accessing their cultural and historical significance through organized tours or scholarly pursuits would be a safer and more feasible option.

Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich history of the Bering Strait regions while respecting the challenges and realities of direct travel between these islands.