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