Big Salt Lake is a good spot to look for a variety of waterfowl and shorebirds. Trumpeter Swans use Big Salt Lake between October and January, where the swans rest and feed here for a few days to a few weeks during migrations, though some swans overwinter at the lake. Waterfowl seek shelter on the lake when there are storms on the Pacific Ocean. Species include: Bufflehead, Barrow’s Goldeneye and a variety of sea ducks. Use the pullouts along the road to access the lake. There is a trail down to the estuary from the highway. During the winter observe swans from a distance with scopes and binoculars to avoid disturbing them. This site is located on Alaska Native lands managed by the Sealaska Corporation. There is also a boat launch where you can launch a skiff or kayak into the lake.

Directions:

From Klawock travel approximately 8 miles north on State Highway 929/Boundary Rd to Big Salt Lake. There is roadside parking and several spur roads that access the lake.

Trail Information:

• There is a user trail to the estuary from the highway

Birding Resources:

•  eBird Hotspot: Prince of Wales Is.--Big Salt Lake (Klawock)

Bird Species Checklist:

• Klawock checklist

Other Resources:

•  Alaska Department of Fish and Game: Big Salt Lake