Meridian Lakes Trail

The feel

This is a segment of the Iditarod National Historic Trail that runs through dense spruce and hemlock forest, with damp, open muskeg crossings between the trees. Public use is low, and the grade has many ups and downs rather than one long climb.

The route passes Leech Lake, Grayling Lake and Long Lake, with a junction to Meridian Lake about 3 miles in. Meridian and Long Lakes are stocked with rainbow trout, and Grayling Lake has grayling, so anglers carry a rod. In August and September, blueberries and high bush cranberries grow along the trail.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Point-to-point, 8.3 miles, rated easy, with 600 ft of gain. Dense spruce and hemlock forest with damp muskeg crossings and many up and down grades. From south to north: Leech Lake at 1.5 miles, Grayling Lake at 2.2 miles, the Meridian Lake junction at about 3 miles, and Long Lake at 5.4 miles.

Time

About 3.5 to 4 hours one way.

Crowds and best time

Public use is low.

Parking

Trailheads are on the west side of the Seward Highway at mile 12 and mile 13.2.

Kids

Rated easy.

Hazards

Use caution with bear and moose; wildlife includes wolves, wolverines and black and brown bears. Giardia could be present in all open water. Weather can change rapidly.

Bathrooms and water

Filter water or boil it for five minutes before drinking.

Season and access

June to October. Snow can remain on the trail until early June. Closed to saddle and pack stock April 1 to June 30 and to motorized vehicles year round. The north end meets Primrose Trail 0.5 miles from the trailhead at Primrose Campground, mile 17 Seward Highway.

Mingo says

Go from June through October, after the early June snow has melted off the trail. In winter, the dense canopy makes it a snowshoe trail only.

Before you go

• Reserve the Forest Service cabin at Meridian Lake up to 180 days ahead at recreation.gov or 1-877-444-6777.
• Bring a rod for the stocked lakes.
• Carry a filter, or boil water five minutes before drinking.
• Call the Seward Ranger District at (907) 288-3178 for trail information.

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