Indian River Trail: Muskeg View

View from Trailside Bench

Summary:

A relatively short hike along a popular trail close to town. Indian River is often visible through the trees as the trail parallels it through century old second growth.

Distance and Time: 1.5 miles; 45 min to 1 hour (round trip)

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation Change: Slight

The total elevation gain to the muskeg is probably less than 30 feet, but there are some slight ups and downs along the way.

Route Finding: Easy

Trail Condition: Good

The trail is well maintained board walk and gravel although there may be some mud.

Seasonal Notes:

Spring

Look for early spring flowers starting in April along the trail and May in the muskeg.
Look for skunk cabbage shoots that have been nipped by deer.

Summer

Flowers bloom throughout the summer.
During late July and August the pink salmon run up the river to spawn. Look for them where the trail passes near the river. (Look for bears as well.)

Fall

In early fall the smell of rotting salmon can be powerful.
Southeast Alaska is not known for its fall colors, but on a small scale, there are often a variety of colors in the muskeg.

Winter

Icy bridges and board walks can be very slippery.
Snow conditions are similar to those in town. Most winters the trail will be snow free except after recent snowfalls.