The Aleutian Islands stretch from southwestern Alaska toward far northeastern Russia. Extending southwest from the Alaskan Peninsula, the islands separate the Bering Sea from the greater Pacific Ocean. The political extent of the Aleutian Island range ends at Attu Island, and because of the International Date Line, Attu Island represents both the westernmost and the easternmost possession of the United States. The Russian Commander Islands make up the final section of the archipelago.

The islands are the product of seismic and volcanic activity and many reach elevations as high as 9,000 feet. Due to their high latitude and high altitudes, the archipelago contains a large number of glaciers. The islands are home to the Aleut people who have lived on the islands for over 8,000 years.

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