Eklutna Lakeside (bike)
Eklutna
The feel
This is a gravel road-trail that follows the shore of Eklutna Lake, a turquoise glacial lake, and the trail is level. It leads on toward the moraines of Eklutna Glacier. Biking is a listed use, and in summer walkers and ATVs share the route.
It is bear country, and the trail asks you to bring bear spray. There is no cell service at the lake.
What to expect
- Route and terrain
- Level gravel trail along the lake shore, 12.7 to 12.9 miles one way, rated easy to moderate.
- Time
- A listed duration of 2 to 2.5 hours.
- Fees and passes
- All Chugach State Park trails require a day-use parking pass or parking decal.
- Dogs
- Welcome, on a leash.
- Hazards
- Bear country, so bring bear spray.
- Cell signal
- There is no cell service at Eklutna Lake.
- Season and access
- May to October for riding. The trail is listed as open all year, with cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter.
Mingo says
Ride it between May and October. Keep bear spray within reach on a trail through bear country.
Before you go
- Buy a day-use parking pass or have a parking decal for Chugach State Park.
- Carry bear spray.
- Download directions first, because there is no cell service at the lake.
Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.
Today
Getting there
- Season
- May-Oct
- Drive from Anchorage
- 53 min to Eklutna Lake
- Drive from Fairbanks
- Full day, 6h31 to Eklutna Lake
- Distance
- 12.7 mi one-way
- Surface
- Gravel
- Difficulty
- Easy-Mod
- Elevation
- 930 ft