Hyder is known for grizzly bear viewing and its proximity to spectacular natural areas. Note that this tiny village curiously identifies more with its neighboring town, Stewart, across the Canadian border. Residents of Hyder are known to use Canadian money and set their watches to Pacific Standard Time rather than Alaska Standard Time.
Take a short drive to a recreation area in the Salmon River Valley. See brown grizzly and black bears fishing for salmon in their natural habitat. Travel farther north into British Columbia and find a viewing point that looks out over Salmon Glacier in Canada.
The Fish Creek Wildlife Observation Site has some of the finest bear viewing in Alaska. This site also features a range of other wildlife, including bald eagles, beavers and Canada geese. Visit this site during summer and fall for a unique wildlife viewing experience. See MacGillivray’s warblers, chipping sparrows, magnolias and other birds not found in many other areas of the world.
Cross the Canadian border and discover Clements Lake Recreation Site about 11 miles (18 kilometers) from Hyder. This area is known for canoeing, picnicking, camping and sandy beaches. Admire the dense wildness and surrounding mountains as you relax in this beautiful natural area.
From Hyder, reach Salmon Glacier, one of Canada’s largest glaciers. This dense ice formation starts at sea level in Hyder and follows the Salmon River into the British Columbia alpine peaks. Find incredible natural views as you look down into the valley.
Stewart is located across the Canadian border about 3 miles (5 kilometers) from Hyder. Visit the Stewart Historical Museum to learn about both Hyder and Stewart. View exhibits tracing the history of the small Alaskan town and props from Hollywood films shot in the region, including Insomnia and Bear Island.
Find accommodations in either Hyder or Stewart, including rustic hotels, inns and guesthouses. Alternatively, use campgrounds in the Clements Lake Recreation Site across the Canadian border.
Visit Hyder for some of the best bear watching in Alaska and its proximity to many beautiful natural attractions across the Canadian border.
