Alaksen National Wildlife Area

The Alaksen National Wildlife Area is located on the Fraser River Delta, providing an important habitat for many bird species, including being a stopover for many migratory birds. The area is managed under the Canada Wildlife Act and is a great opportunity for bird watchers to experience many different species of birds throughout the year. Alaksen National Wildlife Area is only open Monday to Friday from 8am to 3pm and closed on Statutory Holidays.

There are three trails in Alaksen National Wildlife Area:

Triangle Loop Trail: A 1.7km trail roundtrip.

Roberts Bank Trail: A 5.8km trail roundtrip that starts from a junction with the Triangle Loop Trail.

Sunnyside Trail: A 2.2km trail

This trail description recommends walking the Triangle Loop Trail, then continuing along the Fraser River on the Roberts Bank Trail to the end. From there, walk back to the junction with the Triangle Loop Trail and go right, returning to the parking lot area. We recommend skipping the Sunnyside Trail as most of it is covered with no views.

From the gravel parking lot area, walk west along the road and go to the right, walking on a gravel road northward. As you approach the building, look for a sign to the right and follow the narrow gravel road along a dyke as it passes under a canopy of trees. The trail continues until it veers left at a point along the Fraser River.

Walk along the trail, admiring the views of the Fraser River and the forest and marshland to the left. During the spring months, there is a constant chirping of dozens of different bird species, including red winged blackbirds, yellow warblers, marsh wrens, and song sparrows.

The trail reaches a junction and this marks the start of the Roberts Bank Trail. Continue walking straight as it follows the wide, flat path alongside the Fraser River. The views peer across the Fraser River as you catch a glimpse of Steveston.

The trail ends next to a marshy canal. If you're lucky, you may spot a great blue heron stalking its prey or a bald eagle flying overhead.

Retrace your steps back along the gravel path as you observe the views from a different angle. When you reach the junction, go right and walk along the gravel path as you pass several buildings, returning back to the parking area where you began.