Eklutna Lakeside Trail

The feel

This is an abandoned roadbed with bridges, so the going is flat and easy. The trail follows the lakeshore for 7 miles, then runs onto glacial gravel bars, and the last mile is a footpath through glacial debris. Along the way you see steep canyon walls, waterfalls and Eklutna Glacier, with great places to stop for the beaches and views.

Many families ride and walk the first few miles, and hundreds of people hike, bike and four-wheel the trail on a sunny summer Sunday. Dall sheep, mountain goats and pikas live along the route, and bears are frequently sighted. It is best on a bike, and you go as far as your legs vote for.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back by bike, 25 miles total, with 300 to 600 ft of gain; the trail runs 12.7 miles one way to Eklutna Glacier on an easy, flat roadbed with bridges.

Time

About 10.5 hours for the full out and back by bike; turn around anywhere.

Crowds and best time

Busy on sunny summer Sundays, with many families in the first few miles.

Parking

Take the Eklutna exit at Mile 26 of the Glenn Highway, follow the park signs ten miles to Eklutna Lake and park in the large signed lot on the left.

Fees and passes

$5 parking for the day, or an annual day use pass.

Dogs

Dogs must be on a leash in the trailhead parking lot and campground, and under control on the trail.

Kids

Flat and easy, and many families ride the first few miles.

Hazards

Bears are frequently sighted. ATVs share the trail Sunday through Wednesday, April 1 to November 30, with a 15mph speed limit.

Bathrooms and water

Eklutna Lake Campground has water and latrines.

Season and access

Open year-round. Closed to ATVs December 1 through March 31.

Mingo says

Choose a Thursday, Friday or Saturday for a ride without ATVs. They are not allowed on those days.

Before you go

• Bring $5 for the day, or an annual day use pass.
• Rent a bike or kayak at the Eklutna Lake trailhead if you did not bring one.
• Carry bear spray, since bears are frequently sighted.
• Reserve ahead if you want a night at Yuditnu Creek Cabin at mile 3 or Serenity Falls Hut at mile 12.

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