Dangerous River Road allows you to bird from a vehicle between the town of Yakutat and Harlequin Lake. In the summer, expect an abundance of Hermit Thrush, Varied Thrush, Fox Sparrow, Orange-crowned Warbler, Yellow-rumped (Myrtle) Warbler, and Lincoln’s Sparrow. Greater Yellowlegs, and occasionally Lesser Yellowlegs, nest in the open marshes. Red-breasted Sapsucker and Swainson’s Thrush, which are very scarce elsewhere around Yakutat, may be found in areas further out the road in areas with large cottonwoods. Bald Eagle nests are visible at approximately 18 miles from the Airport Road intersection and near Miller Creek past the Ahrnklin River Bridge. Also watch for wildlife like moose and bears, especially at dawn and dusk.

Directions:

From Yakutat, travel along Forest Highway 10 (Dangerous River Road) toward the Dangerous River Bridge and the trailhead for Harlequin Lake. Forest Highway 10 crosses a variety of inland habitats in the Yakutat Forelands, the broad terrace above the beaches, and dunes that stretch to the foot of the coastal mountains.

A stop in each main habitat should yield nearly all the songbird species found around Yakutat. This drive will also take you to two other Yakutat birding sites: The Situk River Trail located near the Nine-mile Bridge and the Harlequin Lake Trail located at the end of the road. Expect washboards, ruts, and loose gravel. It's a good idea to have a spare tire and let someone know when to expect your return. Drivers may pull over at nearly any point along the road. The route is approximately 30 miles one way.

Birding Resources:

eBird Hotspot: None

Bird Species Checklist:

Dangerous River Road checklist