Ptarmigan Lake (hike-in)

The feel

Ptarmigan Lake is a glacial-blue lake at the end of an easy-graded trail, set below big ridges. The trail runs 3.5 miles from Ptarmigan Creek Campground on the Seward Highway. Dolly Varden of 10-16 in and Arctic grayling live here, and crowds are low. You can fish with a fly or spin gear, and no special gear restriction applies. The lake sits in a valley near Moose Pass, and the season runs July to September.

What to expect

Water and access

A 3.5 mile trail from Ptarmigan Creek Campground on the Seward Highway.

Species and timing

Dolly Varden (10-16 in) in July, August and September; Arctic grayling also present.

Methods and gear

Fly or spin. No special gear restriction.

License and rules

Standard limits. Verify before you go.

Crowds and best time

Crowds are low.

Bathrooms and water

Pack in your own water.

Season and access

July to September.

Mingo says

Go anytime from July through September, for Dolly Varden. The grade is easy, so this suits a steady walk in.

Before you go

• Start from Ptarmigan Creek Campground on the Seward Highway.
• Carry in your drinking water.
• Call the Sport Fish Information Center in Anchorage at (907) 267-2218 to check limits.

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