Hidden Lake

The feel

The first stretch is a broad gravel road, the Powerline Pass Trail. After 2.2 miles a marked left turn drops into the valley and crosses South Fork Campbell Creek on the German bridge. Beyond it the trail climbs, narrows to a footpath and winds up through swells of tundra.

The lake is small and tucked into a bowl, so it sneaks up on you below the scree flanks of Big O'Malley Peak. Moose and bears are both common in the valley, especially moose.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 9.5 to 10.4 miles total, with 1794 to 1,955 ft of gain. A broad gravel road, then a steep two mile spur on a narrow footpath through tundra.

Time

About 5 hours.

Crowds and best time

The Glen Alps parking area fills up fast on sunny weekends and evenings. Best from June through September.

Parking

The Glen Alps Trailhead. Overflow parking is in a lot east of the main area, and the "no parking" signs are enforced.

Fees and passes

$5 per day, or an Alaska State Parks pass. Credit cards are accepted.

Dogs

Welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.

Hazards

Moose and bears. Weather can change quickly.

Cell signal

Patchy at best at the trailhead.

Season and access

Expect mud in spring and fall and snow and ice by winter.

Mingo says

Aim for June through September, when the mud and snow are gone. Arrive early on a sunny day to find a space in the lot.

Before you go

• Carry bear spray.
• Bring $5 or your Alaska State Parks pass; credit cards are accepted at the trailhead.
• Do not count on cell service at the trailhead.
• A bike can go as far as the bridge, where there is a bike rack.

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