Ketchikan Wildlife Viewing
Hyder

photo of Hyder area wildlife Between mid-July and September, Fish Creek near Hyder has large pink and chum salmon runs, which attracts black and brown bears, river otters, mink and bald eagles. A USDA Forest Service viewing platform is open daily between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m., enabling wildlife viewers to watch the bears and other wildlife safely. Contact the Ketchikan Ranger District at 907-225-2148 for more information on Fish Creek, including details about permits and best times to visit. Hyder is also popular with birders working to build their Alaska bird lists. Birds found in and near Hyder that are rare in the rest of Southeast Alaska include magnolia warblers, northern rough-winged swallows, western kingbirds, black swifts and the American Crow.

Habitat

Fish Creek is a clear, cold stream ideal for salmon spawning, making it an excellent spot to watch bears fishing.

Species

  • Black Bear
  • Brown Bear
  • Chum (Dog) Salmon
  • Common Merganser
  • Eagles
  • Harlequin Duck
  • Mink
  • Pink (Humpy) Salmon
  • River Otter

Hints

Wolves will sometimes come to Fish Creek to fish for salmon, though sightings are not common. Salmon makes up as much as 20% of some wolves' diet in Southeast Alaska.

Facilities

  • Fee
  • Hiking Trails
  • Interpretive Signs
  • Restrooms
  • Wheelchair Accessible

Notes

Car rentals and accommodations are available in Hyder for those interested in a longer stay. Hyder is one of three Southeast Alaskan communities connected to the North American highway system, just across the border from Stewart, British Columbia.

Plan to spend at least: 4 hours - full day +

Best Months

█ Best Month

  • January
  • February
  • March
  • April
  • May
  • June
  • Best Month July
  • Best Month August
  • Best Month September
  • October
  • November
  • December

Directions

Hyder is a small community 80 air miles east of Ketchikan. Day tours from Ketchikan to Hyder are offered in the summer. Ask at the Visitor's Center for details.

Contact

Ketchikan Visitor's Bureau - (800) 770-3300 or http://www.visit-ketchikan.com USDA Forest Service, Ketchikan-Misty Fjords Ranger District - (907) 225-2148 or http://www.fs.fed.us/r10/ro/naturewatch/southeast/fish_creek/fishcreek.htm

Additional Information

Living with Bears