Bee Tree Loop
The feel
A short forested loop near the Lazy Mountain Recreation Area, a quick leg-stretcher with valley views and a modest climb. It rises from 680 ft to 1434 ft over 1.6 miles and is rated moderate. Birders, hikers and trail runners use it, and dogs are welcome. The trail is mostly dry with a few muddy spots that are easy to get around.
What to expect
- Route and terrain
- Loop, 1.6 miles, with about 754 ft of gain, rising from 680 ft to 1434 ft. Forest with valley views.
- Time
- 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Crowds and best time
- Best from May through September.
- Dogs
- Allowed, and off-lead in some areas. Check the regulations before letting a dog off the lead.
- Hazards
- A few muddy spots. Bears and moose can be encountered on the Lazy Mountain Recreation Area trails.
- Season and access
- Best from May through September.
Mingo says
Pick a dry day between May and September, when the mud is least of a problem. Leave about an hour and a half so the climb never feels rushed.
Before you go
- Check the leash regulations before you unclip a dog.
- Watch for bears and moose.
- Wear shoes that handle a few muddy spots.
Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.
Today
Getting there
- Distance
- 1.6 mi
- Elevation gain
- 754 ft
- Route
- Loop
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Dogs
- Allowed
- High point
- 1434 ft
- Drive from Anchorage
- 50 min to Palmer
- Drive from Fairbanks
- Full day, 5h58 to Palmer
What it is like
🦟 Bugs: High (Jun-Jul) Bears: Common, make noise