Southeast Alaska Birding Trail Coffman Cove

Sarkar Lakes

Trumpeter Swans regularly use the lake in the fall and spring.

Old-growth temperate rainforest surrounds the lake adjacent to muskegs and streams. Watch for wildlife from land or a canoe in the Sarkar Lakes area. Trumpeter Swans regularly use the lake in the fall and spring and the lake is also a good spot for loons and owls.

The Forest Service Sarkar Boating Access Site is the starting point for exploring Sarkar Lakes. The recreation site also has outhouses, picnic tables, a fire ring, and a covered pavilion area in case of rain. A Forest Service public-use cabin is located on the north end of the lake and available for use by reservation. The Sarkar Canoe Route begins on Sarkar Lake and goes 15 miles into the backcountry with several portages connecting seven lakes for access to high-quality fishing locations.

The rapids of Sarkar Creek are full of sockeye salmon each July, attracting black bears and harbor seals. The bridge on FH 43 offers good views. In the spring and early summer, Sitka Black-tailed Deer and black bears feed on lakeside plants. Bald eagles are seen throughout the year. Rental companies can deliver boats and gear upon request.

Directions:

From Coffman Cove take Coffman Cove Road/NF-3030 10.5 miles west to Loggers Lane/NF-30. Turn Right on NF-30 and drive 5.1 miles then continue on another 4.4 miles on NF-23 to North Island Road. Turn right on North Island Road/NF-20 and travel 10.7 miles to the parking area and boat launch on the north side of the road. The route is approximately 31 miles and is approximately a 90-minute drive from Coffman Cove.