13 Must-See Spots In Alaska’s Coastal Paradise Near Salmon Falls Fishing Resort
Alaska’s coastal regions near Salmon Falls Fishing Resort offer some of the most breathtaking natural wonders you’ll ever experience.
From towering glaciers to pristine wilderness areas, this remote paradise showcases nature at its most spectacular. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or simply love stunning landscapes, these incredible destinations will leave you speechless.
Get ready to discover hidden gems that make this corner of Alaska truly unforgettable.
1. Misty Fjords National Monument
Towering granite cliffs rise over 3,000 feet from pristine waters in this spectacular wilderness area. Ancient glaciers carved these dramatic fjords millions of years ago, creating a landscape that feels almost otherworldly.
Wildlife thrives here in ways you won’t see anywhere else. Bears fish for salmon along rocky shores while eagles soar overhead, hunting for their next meal.
Boat tours offer the best way to explore these remote waterways. You’ll witness cascading waterfalls, hidden coves, and mirror-like reflections that photographers dream about capturing on film.
2. Anan Creek Wildlife Observatory
Black and brown bears gather here during salmon runs, creating one of Alaska’s most incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. From a safe wooden platform, you’ll watch these powerful animals demonstrate their fishing skills.
Timing matters when planning your visit to this remote location. July through September offers peak salmon activity, which means more bears and better viewing chances.
Getting there requires a floatplane or boat journey, but the experience rewards every minute of travel time. Rangers provide educational talks that help you understand bear behavior and ecosystem connections.
3. LeConte Glacier
America’s southernmost tidewater glacier creates a natural ice show that changes every single day. Massive chunks of ancient blue ice crash into the ocean with thunderous sounds you’ll never forget.
Harbor seals use floating icebergs as nurseries for their pups during spring months. These adorable marine mammals seem completely unbothered by tourists watching from nearby boats.
Photography enthusiasts find endless opportunities here as lighting conditions shift throughout the day. Early morning visits often provide the most dramatic colors and fewer crowds for better viewing positions.
4. Tongass National Forest
Covering 17 million acres, this temperate rainforest represents one of Earth’s last great wilderness areas. Ancient Sitka spruce and western hemlock trees create cathedral-like spaces that inspire quiet reverence.
Hiking trails wind through moss-covered landscapes where every step reveals something new and amazing. Streams bubble through the forest, creating peaceful sounds that help you disconnect from modern life.
Wildlife encounters happen frequently along these peaceful pathways. Deer, wolves, and countless bird species call this pristine ecosystem home, making every walk an adventure.
5. Petersburg
Norwegian heritage shapes this charming fishing village where colorful houses line peaceful waterfront streets. Local residents maintain strong connections to their Scandinavian roots through festivals, food, and cultural traditions.
Commercial fishing remains the heart of daily life here, with boats departing before dawn for salmon and halibut grounds. You can watch crews prepare their gear and listen to stories from generations of fishing families.
Walking tours reveal hidden gems like the Clausen Memorial Museum and Sons of Norway Hall. Local restaurants serve incredibly fresh seafood that was swimming in nearby waters just hours earlier.
6. Wrangell
Four different nations have claimed this historic town, creating layers of cultural history that make exploration endlessly fascinating. Russian, British, and American influences blend with strong Tlingit traditions.
Ancient petroglyphs carved into beach rocks tell stories from thousands of years ago. These mysterious symbols connect modern visitors to indigenous peoples who lived here long before European contact.
Chief Shakes Island features authentic totem poles and a reconstructed tribal house that showcases traditional craftsmanship. Local guides share oral histories that bring these cultural treasures to life for curious visitors.
7. Stikine River Delta
Spring migration transforms this massive river delta into one of North America’s most important bird sanctuaries. Over 120 species gather here, creating spectacular viewing opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts.
Jet boat tours navigate shallow channels where few visitors ever venture, revealing hidden wildlife and pristine landscapes. Moose wade through marshy areas while bald eagles nest in towering cottonwood trees.
Photography conditions change dramatically with tides and weather, offering unique challenges and rewards. Professional guides know exactly when and where to find the best wildlife action throughout different seasons.
8. Shakes Glacier
Jet boat adventures up the Stikine River lead to this spectacular glacier that few tourists ever see. The journey itself becomes part of the experience as you navigate through wilderness areas.
Ice formations change constantly, creating unique viewing opportunities every single day. Massive crevasses reveal incredible blue colors that seem almost too beautiful to be real.
Hot springs near the glacier provide a surreal contrast to the icy landscape around them. Soaking in natural thermal pools while surrounded by snow and ice creates unforgettable memories.
9. Thomas Bay
Hidden waterfalls cascade from towering cliffs into this pristine bay that kayakers consider one of Alaska’s best-kept secrets. Calm waters provide perfect conditions for paddling and wildlife observation.
Baird Glacier dominates the bay’s upper reaches, creating a dramatic backdrop for outdoor adventures. The glacier’s blue ice contrasts beautifully with surrounding green forests and gray granite peaks.
Camping opportunities exist along protected beaches where you’ll fall asleep to the sound of lapping waves. Morning often brings close encounters with seals, otters, and various seabirds feeding in shallow waters.
10. Blind River Rapids
Salmon fight their way upstream through these churning rapids during summer runs, creating incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. Bears position themselves strategically to catch fish attempting the challenging journey.
Hiking trails provide multiple vantage points for watching this annual drama unfold naturally. Each viewpoint offers different perspectives on the struggle between predator and prey.
Photography challenges include capturing fast-moving action while maintaining safe distances from wildlife. Professional guides help visitors understand timing and positioning for the best shots without disturbing natural behaviors.
11. Crystal Lake
Mirror-like reflections create perfect symmetry between sky and water in this hidden mountain lake. Hiking trails wind through old-growth forest before revealing this pristine alpine gem.
Fishing opportunities include native trout species that have thrived in these clean waters for thousands of years. Catch-and-release practices help preserve this delicate ecosystem for future generations.
Peaceful camping spots along the shoreline offer complete solitude from modern civilization. Nights bring star-filled skies that city dwellers rarely experience, creating magical moments under Alaska’s wilderness canopy.
12. Devils Thumb
This dramatic granite spire challenges even experienced mountaineers with its steep faces and unpredictable weather conditions. The peak’s distinctive shape makes it easily recognizable from miles away.
Glacier approaches require technical climbing skills and proper equipment for safe passage. Most visitors admire this natural monument from valley floors rather than attempting the dangerous ascent.
Photography opportunities abound from various viewpoints throughout the surrounding wilderness area. Different lighting conditions throughout the day create constantly changing moods and colors on the rocky surfaces.
13. Frederick Sound
Humpback whales gather in these nutrient-rich waters during summer months, creating world-class whale watching opportunities. Their acrobatic breaches and tail slaps provide unforgettable entertainment for boat passengers.
Bubble net feeding demonstrates these intelligent mammals’ cooperative hunting strategies. Groups of whales work together to corral schools of herring using curtains of bubbles.
Marine wildlife extends far beyond whales in these productive waters. Orcas, sea lions, and countless seabirds create a dynamic ecosystem that changes with tides and seasons throughout the year.