Lost Lake Trail (bike)

The feel

Lost Lake Trail climbs through spruce and hemlock forest, reaches timberline at mile 5, and then opens into high country alpine with a panorama of near and distant mountains. Mt. Ascension (5710 feet) forms the west border of Lost Lake. The grade runs 5 to 20 percent, and the first five miles are a moderate uphill grade.

The route is 7.3 miles one way with 1820 feet of gain, and it can be stretched to 14.8 miles by connecting to the Primrose Trail at Lost Lake. Moose, black bear, wolf, mountain goat, Dall sheep, ptarmigan, grouse and marmot all live in the area. Salmonberries and blueberries are plentiful in August between miles 3 and 4.

What to expect

Route and terrain

7.3 miles one way with 1820 feet of gain, on a 5 to 20 percent grade. Rated moderate in summer.

Time

3 to 4 hours one way.

Crowds and best time

Public use is heavy in summer.

Parking

From milepost 5 of the Seward Highway, turn at Lost Lake subdivision and follow the gravel road. Signs guide you to trailhead parking.

Hazards

Snow at higher elevations into mid July, mud after rain, creeks that can be dangerous to cross, and moose, bear and other wildlife.

Season and access

Open year round. Closed to motorized vehicles May 1 to November 30.

Mingo says

Wait until the high country melts out in mid July. After rain the trail turns muddy, so pick a dry stretch.

Before you go

• Cross creeks at low water levels, because all creeks present hazards.
• Camp at the marked, first come first served dispersed sites, at mile 3.68 or mile 7.3 north of the bridge.
• Call the Seward Ranger District at (907) 288-3178 for conditions.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.