Crescent Lake via Carter Lake

The feel

The trail is an old jeep road off the Seward Highway, and it starts hard. The first 1.5 miles climb steeply through spruce and hemlock forest, then the grade levels out into a wide subalpine valley of meadows ringed by mountains. The route reaches Carter Lake and continues to Crescent Lake, where grayling are the draw.

The trail is well maintained, but it turns muddy in spring and after rain. Moose and bears use this country, and the creek flowing into Carter Lake is wide and has no bridge, so plan on wet feet.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 6.9 miles with 1142 ft of gain, on a 3.4-mile old jeep road that starts at Mile 34 on the Seward Highway. Steep for the first 1.5 miles, then level.

Time

About 3.5 to 4 hours.

Crowds and best time

Public use is medium-heavy.

Kids

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

Hazards

Bears and moose; an unbridged creek crossing into Carter Lake; muddy footing after rain; Giardia could be present in the water.

Season and access

Open year-round; snow can remain in the valley until early June. Summer access to the west end of Crescent Lake on the primitive trail is difficult.

Mingo says

Go after the early June snow is gone and pick a dry stretch, since rain turns the trail to mud. Fishing for grayling in Crescent Lake and rainbow trout in Carter Lake runs June through October.

Before you go

• Carry bear spray and stay alert for wildlife.
• Wear boots you can get wet for the creek crossing into Carter Lake.
• Check fishing regulations and licenses at adfg.alaska.gov before you cast.
• Call the Seward Ranger District at (907) 288-3178 for current conditions.

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