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Nine Mile Bridge At a Glance
Description:
Located outside of the small coastal community of Yakutat, Nine Mile Bridge offers a terrific opportunity to view a variety of coastal wildlife, such as the five species of Pacific salmon, bald eagles, moose, and river otters.
Nine Mile Bridge is located along the Alsek Road. Be prepared for wet and chilly weather and a backcountry experience.
Viewing Information:
The Situk River boasts all five species of Pacific Salmon; chinook, sockeye, pink, chum, and coho. In addition, the river also supports healthy populations of steelhead trout and Dolly Varden char. Perhaps the best, and most accessible area to view these fish is Nine Mile Bridge. If you are there between the months of April and November, you have a good chance of seeing at least one of these fish species.The large numbers of salmon in the Situk River provide a very important food base for many species of birds and mammals. Both brown and black bears congregate at the Situk to feed on the plentiful salmon. In addition, river otters, mink and moose are very common in the Nine Mile area. Bald eagles may be seen perching in the high spruce trees waiting for a meal to swim by.
Safety First:
Prepare for wet and chilly weather at any time of the year. There are no staffed facilities along the Alsek Road. Visitors need to be prepared for any emergencies that might arise.
Be cautious of bears in the area. NEVER approach a bear under any circumstances. If you are lucky enough to see one, view it from a distance. Go to the Bear Sense page for more information about how to behave in bear country.
Directions:
Nine Mile Bridge is accessible via Alsek Road (FH 10). From the airport drive approximately 4.5 miles on the main road into town. Just before town is the only road intersection in Yakutat. Take a right here and drive approximately nine miles to the bridge.
Ownership & Management:
USDA Forest Service, Tongass National Forest; Yakutat Ranger District (907) 784-3359
Closest Town:
Yakutat, Alaska
Best Viewing Season:
