Calvin & Coyle Nature Trail

The feel

The trail winds through spruce forest and meadows to an observation platform overlooking the Beluga wetlands, with interpretive signs along the way. From the platform you see upper Beluga Lake and the Kenai Mountains, and Grewingk Glacier.

In shorebird season the platform is a good place to spot sandhill cranes and greater white-fronted geese, and moose often graze the wetlands. The boardwalks and roots get slippery when wet.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Loop, 1.5 miles, with about 60 ft of gain; spruce forest, meadows and boardwalks to a wetland viewing platform. A foot trail only, unsuited to wheelchairs or strollers.

Time

About 0.5 hour.

Parking

The trailhead is at the end of Mariner Drive, with a small lot and an information kiosk. Street parking is not permitted, and no vehicles over 20 feet, including RVs, buses and trailers, are allowed on the dead-end street.

Dogs

Allowed.

Kids

Rated easy.

Hazards

Muddy, rooty and slippery when the boardwalks are wet. Watch for moose.

Season and access

Hiking in summer and snowshoeing. Kachemak Heritage Land Trust manages the trail.

Mingo says

Come in shorebird season for the cranes and geese at the platform. Moose are possible, so keep an eye out. Mud and roots make the boardwalks slippery when wet.

Before you go

• Carpool, because the lot is very small.
• During summer break, park at Paul Banks Elementary and use its connector trail.
• Wear rain pants and rubber boots after fog or rain.

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