Crescent Lake (Cooper Landing)

The feel

Crescent Lake is a wild trophy grayling fishery in the Chugach National Forest, reached on foot. Arctic grayling run 12-18 in, trophy class, with 18-inch sailfins on the line, and rainbow trout are also present. Crowds are low. Two Forest Service cabins sit on the lake, and each has a rowboat. You can fish with a fly, spin gear or from the bank.

What to expect

Water and access

Hike in 3.4 mi to grayling water via the Carter Lake Trail (Seward Hwy Mile 33), or about 6.5 mi via the Crescent Creek Trail off Quartz Creek Road. Bikes are allowed on the Crescent Creek Trail.

Species and timing

Arctic grayling (12-18 in) in June, July and August; rainbow trout also present.

Methods and gear

Fly, spin or bank fishing. Each cabin has a rowboat.

License and rules

Verify current rules.

Crowds and best time

Crowds are low.

Season and access

July to August.

Mingo says

Aim for July or August. Choose the shorter hike in if your legs are tired, or ride the longer route if you are on a bike.

Before you go

• Reserve a Forest Service cabin and its rowboat on recreation.gov.
• Call the Sport Fish Information Center in Anchorage at (907) 267-2218 with rules questions.
• Pack fly or spin gear for the hike in.

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