Hidden Creek Trail

The feel

The trail runs downhill through a burn area left by the 1996 Hidden Creek Fire, which began here and burned 5,200 acres. Several views of the Kenai Mountains open up through the burned areas, and the shore of Skilak Lake offers excellent views of them.

The western section goes directly to the lake. The eastern section passes near the mouth of Hidden Creek and is about half a mile longer. The two sections meet at Skilak Lake, where a cobble beach makes a good picnic spot, and you can hike along the shore to the west.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 3 miles total, 1.3 miles one way; native surface and boardwalk, gentle to moderate, with about 250 ft of gain on the climb back.

Time

1.5 hours.

Parking

The trailhead is on Skilak Lake Road at mile 4.6.

Kids

Rated easy.

Hazards

Both sections may be wet and muddy and the boardwalks may be slippery. This is active bear country, mostly black bears, though grizzly bears also frequent it.

Season and access

April through September is the best time to visit.

Mingo says

Plan for the walk back up, because the beach is at the bottom and the climb comes last. Go between April and September.

Before you go

• Wear shoes with grip for wet, muddy ground and slippery boardwalks.
• Expect bears: this is active bear country, so stay alert on the trail.
• Call the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge at 907-262-7021 with questions about the trail.
• Pack a picnic for the cobble beach.

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