South Fork Valley Trail

The feel

This is the trailhead for Eagle and Symphony Lakes in Chugach State Park. It has a gravel parking area, a parking lot and roadside parking. The gravel lot is spacious but often overflows on summer weekends.

From the trailhead the South Fork Eagle River Trail runs 4.5 miles to the bridge at Eagle Lake. No public transport goes directly to the trailhead, so you need your own vehicle.

What to expect

Water and access

Trail access to Symphony Lake. From the Glenn Highway take the Eagle River Loop Road exit, turn right onto Hiland Road, and cross the bridge over the South Fork. Turn right at South Creek Road, marked by a small brown sign.

Crowds and best time

The lot often overflows on summer weekends.

Parking

A gravel parking area at the trailhead, plus a parking lot and roadside parking. A day-use parking pass or parking decal is required.

Season and access

The trip to Eagle and Symphony Lakes is 10.7 miles out and back with 1,558 ft of gain, rated moderate, about 4 to 5 hours. Dogs are welcome on a leash.

Mingo says

Arrive early in the morning on a summer weekend to get a space. Without a vehicle you cannot reach it, since no public transport serves the trailhead.

Before you go

• Carry a Chugach State Park day-use parking pass or parking decal.
• Bring bear spray.
• Keep your dog on a leash.

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