Southeast Alaska Birding Trail Gustavus

Salmon River

Watch for Western Sandpiper, Black-bellied Plover, Whimbrels Dunlin, and Short-billed/Long-billed Dowitcher.

The mouth of the Salmon River joins Icy Strait and forms an estuary only a short walk west of the ferry dock parking area. This is a good area for birding, particularly during spring and fall migrations. Be sure to pay attention to the tides when exploring this area. A rising tide will concentrate feeding shorebirds and waterfowl closer to the shore. During migration, you may find: Western Sandpiper, Black-bellied Plover, Whimbrels, Dunlin, Short-billed/Long-billed Dowitcher, among other species.

Directions:

From the Gustavus, head east to State Dock Road and drive 1.4 miles to the ferry terminal parking lot. The Salmon River flows into Icy Strait to the west of the ferry dock.

Long-billed Dowitcher.
Long-billed Dowitcher. Photo: Milo Burcham

Birding Resources:

Species Checklist:

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