Horseshoe Lake Trail

The feel

The trail starts high above the lake. A short steep hill leads in a few hundred yards to a bench overlooking the water, and then the path drops very steeply, about 250 ft, to the shore. There it branches into a loop around the lake.

Viewing platforms overlook the south end, and a short spur near the midpoint on the east side looks out over a beaver dam. The north end comes out of the forest alongside the Nenana River. The west side hugs the shore along a very steep slope. The lake is one of the best places to look for wildlife in the entrance area, with beavers, waterfowl and moose.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Loop of 2 miles round trip with about 250 ft of descent, mostly in one steep hill near the trailhead. The path is about five feet wide, with uneven soil, rocks and roots, and the grade averages 5% with sections up to 20%. The loop ends with a steep uphill section.

Time

About 1 to 2 hours round trip from the trailhead. Add about 30 minutes if you start from the Denali Visitor Center.

Crowds and best time

One of the most popular trails in Denali, but not usually busy early in the morning. Starting by 7 am means few fellow hikers.

Parking

A small lot at Mile 1 of the Denali Park Road, where the Alaska Railroad crosses. You can also park at the Denali Visitor Center at Mile 1.5.

Hazards

Very steep sections. Stay on the trail and off the beaver dam.

Mingo says

Keep to the trail on the spur that overlooks the beaver dam, and do not walk onto the dam itself. The first hill to the bench is short, but the drop beyond it is far steeper.

Before you go

• Start from the Mile 1 lot for the shortest route, or from the Denali Visitor Center for a longer walk of about 1 more mile round trip.
• Walk to the bench overlook and back to the visitor center in about 30 minutes if you are short on time.
• Wear shoes with grip for the rocks, roots and the steep drop to the shore.

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