Explore Wildlife Wonderland: Blind River Rapids Boardwalk
The Blind River Rapids Boardwalk is a charming retreat that draws in nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. This hidden gem weaves the strands of natural beauty, wildlife wonder, and a vibrant fishing legacy.
Strolling along the Blind River Rapids Trail, a winding quarter-mile boardwalk, visitors embark on an immersive journey through the muskeg wetland. This wooden pathway, roomy enough for two friends to walk together, offers an up-close exploration of a unique ecosystem. For those looking for a bit more, a side loop option introduces an additional quarter-mile boardwalk, meandering through muskeg and scrub forest, adding an extra enchantment.
At the trail’s end, the Blind River Rapids unfold—a captivating display of wide, rocky, and shallow rapids. Situated at the tail end of a sprawling estuary, far from the lush waters of the Wrangell Narrows, the rapids create a striking contrast against the long, still-black pools of the Blind River. The winding channel, crossing vast mud-flats, paints a picturesque scene.
This sanctuary isn’t just a visual treat but also a haven for keen bird watchers, especially during the spring and fall migrations. The Swan Observatory allows observers to marvel at the grace of white swans gliding like winter’s ice. Bald Eagles grace the skies, their majestic presence emphasized by the flurry of fish in the river. The avian tapestry unfolds further with Canada Goose, Bufflehead, Common Merganser, Red-breasted Sapsucker, Steller’s Jay, Pacific-slope Flycatcher, Belted Kingfisher, and Pacific Wren.
Rooted in tradition, the Blind River Rapids has been a pilgrimage for fishing enthusiasts for decades. A historical trail, about half a mile from Mitkof Highway, guides eager anglers to the coveted spot for catching returning King Salmon. The salmon runs, a spectacle in their own right, attract bears, reminding visitors to be bear-aware in this natural amphitheater. The cycle of life plays out as King salmon (chinook) spawn in June and July, pinks (humpies) make their journey in July and August, and silver (coho) take their turn from August to October.
Beyond the surface allure, the Blind River Rapids Boardwalk encapsulates a delicate harmony between nature, wildlife, and human interaction. Whether you are an avid bird watcher, an angler seeking the thrill of catching fish, or simply someone yearning for a rendezvous with nature, this place invites you to partake in its multifaceted offerings.
Mitkof Hwy, Petersburg, AK 99833 | +1 907-225-3101 | http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/tongass/recarea/?recid=78995