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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
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What it is like

Nearby

Sources