Beaver Pond Trail

The feel

The trail wanders through woods at the base of Penguin Ridge, crossing bogs, streams and stretches of canopy forest. Bridges and wooden planks protect the ground and your feet from the wet, muddy spots, and the Girdwood Trail Crew Committee keeps it in good shape.

It links to California Creek Trail and, a little further along, Abe's Trail, so the three make a loop around the Girdwood Valley. In winter the trail stays in use: most people cross-country ski it after a good snowfall, and others snowshoe.

What to expect

Route and terrain

A 2.5 mile trail through woods with bogs, streams, bridges and wooden planks, with 150 to 800 ft of gain and two steep switchbacks. Two miles from the north trailhead it splits, and the uphill summer route avoids marsh and wetlands.

Time

30 minutes to 2 hours.

Parking

The best start is the bridge on Crow Creek Road, 0.5 miles up the road; most people park along the road right before the bridge. A second access is next to the Seward Highway on the Bird-Gird bike trail, with plenty of parking and about half a mile of bike trail to the Beaver Pond trailhead.

Fees and passes

$5 day use fee, and a parks pass is accepted.

Hazards

The trail can get overgrown with pushki, so long sleeves and tall socks are more comfortable. Motorized use is prohibited.

Season and access

Used year-round. In winter, walking depends on snow conditions, and the downhill winter route avoids avalanche-prone areas.

Mingo says

Go in summer on the uphill route, which skirts the marsh. When snow is down, bring skis or snowshoes instead.

Before you go

• Park along Crow Creek Road just before the California Creek bridge, 0.5 miles up the road.
• Wear long sleeves and tall socks if the pushki has grown in.
• Carry the $5 day use fee or a parks pass.

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