Kenai River Trail (Lower)

The feel

The lower trail is a forest-and-bluff walk to Kenai River views, and it sees fewer people than the upper trailhead. Much of it runs through forest, some of it soggy, across land burned by the 1991 Pothole Lake fire, which covered 8,700 acres, and a smaller fire in July 2004.

The path makes an easy descent through forest to meet the upper trail, then drops down a short, steep ridge to the water's edge. At the bottom the trail breaks up into grassy fishing paths, and a small black sand beach. Moose are a good bet here, and eagles, mergansers, river otter and beaver also turn up.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 4.6 miles total, with about 250 ft of gain. The trail goes through forest and burn regrowth, then down a short, steep ridge to the river, and the river views are good but less dramatic than the canyon views on the upper trail.

Time

2 to 4 hours out and back.

Crowds and best time

Fewer people than the upper trailhead.

Parking

The lower trailhead is on Skilak Lake Road, an unpaved road that sometimes has terrible ruts.

Fees and passes

No fee.

Hazards

Some soggy sections; the ridge down to the river is short and steep; the trail turns to grassy fishing paths at the bottom.

Season and access

Open in all seasons.

Mingo says

Pick the lower trail when you want the burn regrowth. You will share it with fewer people.

Before you go

• Drive Skilak Lake Road slowly, since it is unpaved and sometimes badly rutted.
• Bring a backpacking stove if you camp by the river, since stoves are recommended.
• Check current fishing regulations before you fish for trout, Dolly Varden or salmon.

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