Retriever Pond Loop

The feel

A wide dirt path circles a small pond at the southeast end of Cushman Lake in the Tanana Lakes Recreation Area. The loop is short and flat, with views across the water and almost no climbing.

This corner is a little less traveled than the rest of the recreation area, so you can find solitude at quieter times of day. Birders, cross-country skiers and anglers use it, and it is open year-round.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Loop of 1.3 miles with about 13 ft of gain, on a wide dirt path around the pond.

Time

0.5 to 1 hour.

Crowds and best time

Less traveled than the rest of the recreation area; quieter times of day offer solitude.

Parking

Drive to the park entrance at the end of South Cushman. The trailhead lot is on the right, just after Northlake Lane. Take the trail to the left, past the gate and onto the levee groin heading south; the pond is on your left (east).

Dogs

Welcome, on a leash.

Kids

Easy, flat terrain.

Hazards

Be alert for wildlife and carry bear spray.

Season and access

Open year-round. This side of the recreation area is multiple-use.

Mingo says

This is a short, easy stop for any season you can reach it. Bring ski gear in winter, since cross-country skiers use the loop.

Before you go

• Carry bear spray and keep dogs on a leash.
• Park in the trailhead lot just past Northlake Lane, then go through the gate onto the levee.
• Expect multiple-use traffic on this side of the recreation area.

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