Thousands of years ago the Dena’ina Athabascans discovered a wilderness buffet: a network of lakes and rivers where they could catch moose and fish, trap beavers and ptarmigan, and seek out swan eggs. The central Kenai Peninsula continues to draw wildlife and people, both year-round residents and seasonal visitors. Fishermen and birders flock to the estuaries where thousands of birds and salmon converge, just as they did when the Dena’ina first settled near the banks.

This drive along the Sterling Highway, starting with the K’Beq "Footprints" Interpretive Site at milepost 52.6, is still rich with wildlife and culture. It continues through the city of Kenai, the largest population center on the peninsula. For up-to-date birding information call the Central Peninsula’s Birding Hotline at 907-262-2300.