Heney Ridge Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · River/Creek · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Bear sightings during salmon spawning season (mid-July to August) are common and hikers should take appropriate precautions.

The first section of trail follows the contour of Hartney Bay and offers excellent birdwatching and wildlife spotting opportunities. Spawning salmon may also be viewed from mid-July to August. The first mile of the trail is a "17(b)" easement. The next two miles moderately climb through spruce-hemlock forest and muskeg areas scattered with wildflowers. The last mile is a steep climb onto Heney Ridge following rock cairns above tree line. Once on the ridge you are treated to spectacular views of the Copper River Delta, the Prince William Sound, and Kayak Island (on clear days). There are many unique wood structures to assist hikers with traversing the varied terrain. The trail is muddy and wet in places, especially after heavy rain. The Forest Service Trails Crew is working on replacing old trail during the summer 2021.

Excellent birdwatching, you can often see bald eagles. In the late fall salmon can be seen swimming upriver to spawn. Bear sightings are also common during this season.
This trail traverses many different landscapes. It starts with a view of the Hartney Bay wetlands, goes into old growth spruce-hemlock forest and muskeg fields and then reaches an alpine climate above tree line.