One viewpoint stairway is on the outlet works at the junction of the dam with the Chena River. Visitors can climb the stairway to the top of the dam for an overview of the river, floodway and wildlife. Another stairway is located near the Lake Park entrance.

Many species of wildlife such as moose, beaver, muskrats, squirrels, snowshoe hares, ravens, eagles, many other birds, and predators such as lynx, fox, wolves, and an occasional black or brown bear may be seen throughout the project lands. These animals are wild and should be treated with caution and respect.

Two species of salmon, Chinook and Chum, migrate up the Chena River in July and August, and may be easily seen from the top of the outlet works during our annual Salmonwatch. Salmon fishing is permitted 300 feet downstream of the dam. For more information about these species, click here.

Hunting for moose, waterfowl, grouse and ptarmigan are popular at the Chena Project. Trapping is also permitted in certain areas. Check with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game for rules and regulations.

Fishing at the Chena Project is regulated by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. In addition to Chinook and Chum salmon, the Chena River is also home to Arctic grayling, sheefish, whitefish, burbot, and northern pike. Piledriver Slough also has natural populations of Arctic grayling, northern pike and burbot, and is stocked with rainbow trout. Chena Lake is stocked with Arctic char, rainbow trout and landlocked Coho (silver) salmon. Bathing Beauty Hole and North Pond are stocked with rainbow trout.