Beach Lake (Chugiak)

The feel

Beach Lake is a quiet Chugiak park lake for trout, paired with ski and horse trails most anglers miss. It is 90.4 acres at the end of Beach Lake Road, inside Beach Lake Park, with a trail network and small shore access. There is no large lakefront beach or recreation area, so people mainly come for paddling and fishing, and the lake has a boat launch. Canoes or inflatable rafts are the recommended way to fish it.

What to expect

Water and access

A 90.4-acre lake at the end of Beach Lake Road in Chugiak, inside Beach Lake Park, about 30 minutes north of downtown. Access is via South Birchwood Loop Road to Beach Lake Road. Trail network with small shore access and a boat launch.

Species and timing

Rainbow trout (10-14 in), periodically stocked and last stocked in 2020. Runs vary. Season is May-Sep.

Methods and gear

Spin, bait, bank and ice. Canoes or inflatable rafts are recommended.

License and rules

An Alaska fishing license is needed, available online through the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. Stocked on and off over the years, in the Anchorage Management Area.

Crowds and best time

Low crowds.

Season and access

Open May-Sep.

Mingo says

Come in the May-Sep season and expect low crowds. A canoe or inflatable raft gets you onto the water.

Before you go

• Buy your Alaska fishing license online through the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.
• Take South Birchwood Loop Road to Beach Lake Road.
• Check the current rules, since stocking has been on and off over the years.

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