Troop Lake

The feel

Troop Lake is a remote, walk-in lake, stocked with rainbow trout and, if available, Arctic char. You get there on foot from a turnout on the east side of the Seward Highway at Mile 12.1.

The trail begins on the Iditarod Historical Trail. About 1 mile along, a sign marks the new Troop Lake cutoff trail, and the lake is about 1/2 mile farther.

What to expect

Water and access

Walk-in lake. From the Mile 12.1 turnout, follow the Iditarod Historical Trail about 1 mile to the signed Troop Lake cutoff trail, then about 1/2 mile farther to the lake.

Species and timing

Rainbow trout and Arctic char, listed year-round.

License and rules

Leave No Trace. Keep the lake and access sites free of litter.

Parking

A turnout on the east side of the Seward Highway at Mile 12.1.

Season and access

Year-round fishing is listed. The old trail at mile 10.9 is closed.

Mingo says

Fish here any month, since both species are listed year-round. Char are stocked only if available, so count on rainbow trout.

Before you go

• Start from the Mile 12.1 turnout, not the old trail at mile 10.9, which is closed.
• Watch for the sign at the Troop Lake cutoff trail, about 1 mile along.
• Carry out all litter.

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