Beach Lake Trails

The feel

Beach Lake Trails are easy forest loops around a moose-and-loon lake near the coast in Chugiak. The park covers 1,750 acres on the shore of Cook Inlet, about 20 miles north of Anchorage, with birch-spruce uplands and black spruce bogs. The surface in summer is packed dirt and grass, and the walking is gentle.

It is Eagle River's largest park, and a hub for fishing, paddling and wildlife viewing in summer. Most of the trail building has been aimed at mushing and cross-country skiing, so in winter the same loops turn into a ski system. A new multi-use gravel trail built in 2025 links the parking area to the coastline.

What to expect

Route and terrain

An easy 3.5 mile loop with 150 ft of gain, a high point of 250 ft and a start near 100 ft. Packed dirt and grass in summer.

Time

About 1.5 hours on the trail, and a 0.55 hour drive from Anchorage.

Parking

The Beach Lake Chalet has parking and restrooms, about three-quarters of a mile from the Glenn Highway on the west side of South Birchwood Loop Road. If school is out, park in Chugiak High School's north lot and reach the trails by a tunnel under the road.

Fees and passes

No fees or permits are needed.

Dogs

Dogs are allowed and should be leashed.

Hazards

Bugs run high in June and July, and bears are common, so make noise.

Bathrooms and water

Restrooms at the Beach Lake Chalet.

Season and access

Sled dog trails are dedicated to mushing Aug 1 to April 15. The winter ski system is 15 km plus, with about half lit for night skiing.

Mingo says

Skip the peak bug weeks of June and July if mosquitoes really wear on you. Ski the loops after dark, when about half of them are lit.

Before you go

• Park at the Beach Lake Chalet, 17611 S Birchwood Loop Rd, where restrooms are available.
• Keep your dog on a leash.
• Carry bear spray and repellent.
• No fees or permits are needed.

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