The Dyea Road crosses the Taiya River at this bridge, which has limited short-term parking near the bridge. From the bridge, you can look up and downstream over the Taiya River. The flat terrain around the bridge and river makes it easily accessible for all levels of hikers. This site blends cottonwood, spruce, and riparian habitats to support a diversity of bird life. Nearby at the Chilkoot Trailhead is the start of the Chilkoot Trail, which immediately ascends steeply up the hillside.

During the spring, summer, and fall, there are a variety of birds along the river including the American Dipper, Belted Kingfisher, Bald Eagles, and a variety of waterfowl and gull species. Listen for Varied, Hermit and Swainson’s Thrush, Red-breasted Sapsucker, and Pacific-slope Flycatcher in the forest. Gulls and Bald Eagles frequent the river.

Directions:

Turn onto the Dyea Road from Klondike Highway, then drive about 8 miles to the Taiya River Bridge.

Birding Resources:

• eBird Hotspot: Skagway--West Creek Bridge riparian area

Bird Species Checklist

• Skagway checklist

Other Resources:

• Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
• National Park Serice map viewer