Russian Lakes Trail Upper and Lower

The feel

This is a hike-in fishery out of Cooper Landing: 3.4 miles to Lower Russian Lake and 12 miles to Upper Russian Lake. Both lakes offer trout and Dolly Varden fishing. Lakes reachable only by hiking trail in this area provide excellent fishing for rainbow trout and Dolly Varden. The north end starts at Russian River Campground at Mile 52.6 of the Sterling Highway. A cabin on the eastern shore of Lower Russian Lake has a rowboat with oars.

What to expect

Water and access

Two lakes on a trail, 3.4 miles to Lower Russian Lake and 12 miles to Upper Russian Lake. From the north end, turn into Russian River Campground at Mile 52.6 of the Sterling Highway.

Species and timing

Trout and Dolly Varden at both lakes.

License and rules

Tackle, size and season restrictions apply. Check the current Southcentral Alaska Sport Fishing Regulations Summary before fishing.

Parking

Trailhead parking is 1 mile past Russian River Campground and is not plowed in winter.

Season and access

Trailhead parking is not plowed in winter.

Mingo says

Lower Russian Lake at 3.4 miles is the shorter trip. Upper Russian Lake at 12 miles is the long one.

Before you go

• Turn into Russian River Campground at Mile 52.6 of the Sterling Highway, then drive 1 mile further to trailhead parking.
• Read the current Southcentral Alaska Sport Fishing Regulations Summary for tackle, size and season rules.
• Plan around winter, since the trailhead parking is not plowed.

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