Eklutna Tailrace Trail

The feel

This is a short flat walk along the Eklutna Tailrace, the fishing access beside the Knik River. The glacial-fed water looks murky and blue-gray and has very little current, and the paths include a bridge to both sides of the tailrace.

You will not find much solitude here, but you can usually find a spot to set up a lawn chair.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 0.8 mile total, rated easy, with 9 to 36 ft of gain. The paths are ADA accessible, with fishing pads and a bridge to both sides of the tailrace.

Time

0.5 to 1 hour.

Crowds and best time

Not much solitude. June through September is the best window.

Parking

A large paved lot beside the tailrace, with a trash dumpster. The site is about 34 miles northeast of Anchorage near Mile 3.5 of the Old Glenn Highway.

Fees and passes

The facility is free for the public to use.

Kids

Rated easy and flat.

Bathrooms and water

Restrooms at the parking area, plus a fish cleaning table at the tailrace and Knik River confluence. No drinking water is stated, so bring your own.

Season and access

The tailrace fishery is open 24 hours per day. The best months for the walk are June through September.

Mingo says

Aim for the third week of June, the historical peak for king salmon at the tailrace. Fishing here runs around the clock, so you can time the visit to your own day.

Before you go

• Pack a lawn chair if you want to settle in beside the water.
• Bring tackle if you plan to fish, since the tailrace is stocked with coho and chinook.
• Plan on the Old Glenn Highway, near Mile 3.5, about 34 miles northeast of Anchorage.

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