Skagway Wildlife Viewing
Yakutania Point

photo of Yakutania Point area wildlife From the Yakutania Point Trail, scan the waters of Taiya Inlet and the mouth of the Skagway River for scoters, Barrow’s goldeneyes, buffleheads, harlequin ducks and red-breasted mergansers. The shore between Yakutania Point and the mouth of the Skagway River is a favorite haunt for harbor seals, which can number into the dozens here, especially in spring when eulachon (a small oily fish) are running into the Skagway River. Look for the gray heads of these ever-curious animals from the point, while standing on the footbridge over the river, and from spots along the trail.

Habitat

The tidal flats along the trail are a good spot to look for harbor seals while hiking.

Species

  • Bufflehead
  • Eulachon
  • Harbor Seal
  • Harlequin Duck
  • Surf Scoter
  • Terns

Hints

Stand on the footbridge over the Skagway River near the trailhead to look for arctic terns, which nest nearby.

Facilities

  • Hiking Trails
  • Picnic Facilities
  • Within Walking Distance

Notes

Yakutania Point Trail is a relatively well traveled trail, and one of the easiest hikes in Skagway.

Plan to spend at least: 1 - 4 hours

Best Months

█ Best Month

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

Directions

The Yakutania Point Trail begins at the footbridge over the Skagway River at the southwest corner of town and winds for half a mile to Yakutania Point.

Contact

Skagway Convention and Visitor's Bureau - (907) 983-2854 or http://www.skagway.com City of Skagway's Comprehensive Trail Plan - http://www.skagway.org/index.asp?Type=B_BASIC&SEC={D5038379-F8CD-42BD-AABF-F03425A56803}