Chugach National Forest Nature Articles

Chugach National Forest Guide: Nature

Visit Cordova in early May for the Copper River Delta Shorebird Festival to see hundreds of thousands of migrating birds. Species to watch for include Western Sandpipers, Sanderlings, Dowitchers, Plovers, Canada geese, Trumpeter Swans, Red-necked Phalarope, Northern Pintails, Shovelers, and other waterfowl.
Rent a kayak in Whittier and paddle across Passage Canal to the largest Black-legged Kittiwake rookery in the world. Trace the shoreline to watch for bald eagles, Glaucous-winged Gulls, Cormorants, and other sea birds as well as marine and land animals.
Paddle the Swanson River Canoe Trail system on the Kenai Peninsula in June to see scads of migrating Trumpeter Swans and many other species of birds and mammals.
Tern Lake, at the junction of the Sterling and Seward Highways on the Kenai Peninsula, is a great bet for watching a variety of birds including Arctic Terns, bald eagles, and Trumpeter Swans. Also look for Trumpeter Swans in the wetlands surrounding the southern end of Turnagain Arm, particularly along the western shore north of the Placer River.
Virtually any hike which leads above tree line will give you a chance to watch for grouse or ptarmigan, not to mention ravens, eagles, Dall sheep, mountain goats, moose, or bear, depending upon the area.

By Travel Expert: Jeremy Pataky

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