Copper River in south-central Alaska is a vital salmon spawning stream and major waterway known for wildlife, glacial sales, and outdoor recreation.
Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | Alaska |
| Subregion | Southcentral Alaska |
| Country | United States |
| State | Alaska |
| County | Valdez-Corpus Christi Census Area |
| District | Copper River basin |
| Timezone | AmericaAnchorage |
| Latitude | 62.5 |
| Longitude | -145.25 |
| Maps |
Copper River rises from the Chugach Mountains and flows southwest toward Prince William Sound, passing through remote valleys, braided channels, and glacial outflows. The river and its tributaries support one of the *largest wild Sockeye salmon runs in North America, drawing anglers and commercial harvesters. The basin's rugged terrain and settled glaciers give the area a stark, powerful atmosphere—great for multi-day kayak trips, river crossings, and wildlife viewing of species like moose, grizzly bear, and eagle*. Key access points and communities include Cordova, Gulkana, and trails across the Wrangell–St. Elias and Chugach ranges; routes and services are variable and largely wilderness-based.
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