Drake/Skookum Lake Trail

The feel

This is a quiet lake country walk in the Swanson River area of the Kenai refuge. The dirt trail rolls gently through spruce and birch, passing Dabbler Lake before reaching Drake Lake, a lake with several small islands. The spur to Skookum Lake leaves about 1 mile in, and the lake is about 1/8 mile from the junction.

The only views come from the lakeshores of Drake and Skookum Lakes. Moose are present in good numbers, and bear, wolf and coyote tracks are often seen on the trail. Both lakes lie within the Dave Spencer Unit of the Kenai Wilderness, so wilderness regulations apply.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 3.3 miles total, with about 101 ft of gain. The dirt trail crosses gently rolling hills with no significant gain or loss in elevation.

Time

About 1.5 hours out and back.

Parking

The trailhead is at mile 13.1 on Swanson River Road, on the east side, with a pullout and a small parking lot.

Fees and passes

No fee.

Dogs

Pet friendly.

Hazards

Lots of bears in this area, so prepare accordingly.

Bathrooms and water

No bathrooms.

Season and access

Very suitable for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and dog sledding in winter, and ice fishing is possible on Drake and Skookum Lakes.

Mingo says

Come in winter if you ski, snowshoe or mush, because the trail suits all three. A frozen lake also opens up fishing through the ice.

Before you go

• Prepare for bears, since there are lots of them in this area.
• Plan around the lack of bathrooms at the trailhead.
• Follow wilderness regulations at both lakes.
• Bring a canoe only if you are ready for the 1-mile portage to Drake Lake.

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