Carter Lake

The feel

Carter Lake Trail is an old jeep road. The first 1.5 miles are a short, steep climb through spruce and hemlock forest, and then the trail levels out into a wide subalpine valley of meadows surrounded by mountains. It is covered in wildflowers and has excellent views.

Use is medium to heavy. The same trail carries on to Crescent Lake, with Carter Lake at mile 2.3 and Crescent Lake at mile 3.4. It is well maintained, but expect mud in spring and after rain.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Old jeep road, 3.4 miles to Carter and Crescent Lakes, with about 950 ft of gain. Steep for the first 1.5 miles, then level. The creek flowing into Carter Lake is wide and has no bridge, so expect to get wet.

Time

About 2 hours.

Crowds and best time

Public use is medium to heavy. Snow can remain in the valley until early June.

Kids

The primitive trail to the west end of Crescent Lake is not recommended for children.

Hazards

Use caution with bear and moose. Giardia could be present in the water. Muddy in spring and after rainfall.

Bathrooms and water

Water comes from streams and the lake. Giardia could be present.

Season and access

Open year-round. The trailhead is at mile 34 on the Seward Highway. Closed to motorized vehicles May 1 to November 30 and to pack and saddle stock April 1 to June 30.

Mingo says

Go from June through the fall, once the early June snow has melted out of the valley. Skip the days right after heavy rain.

Before you go

• Wear shoes that can get wet for the unbridged creek crossing at Carter Lake.
• Bring a rod for trout in Carter Lake; grayling fishing in Crescent Lake does not open until July 1.
• Call the Seward Ranger District at (907) 288-3178 for trail conditions.

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