The steep road grade on either side of Cripple River gives a good overview of the thin thread-like river that runs through the valley. Gold mining activities occurred in the upper tributaries, as evidenced by the road and horizontal ditch lines, which are still visible on the upstream slopes and continue to trap water and snow. The extra moisture encourages growth of taller shrubs and provides a small windbreak, attracting wildlife. An access road towards the coast begins near the bridge crossing private land. Look for harlequin ducks paddling swift river currents in late August or September. Pink salmon reach their upper spawning limit in the Cripple River. Dolly Varden fingerlings and spawning adults are food for river otters.
