Two Lakes Trail

The feel

This is a short loop in downtown Seward, at the base of Mount Marathon, where the town meets spruce and hemlock forest. The trail is very well marked and winds through the trees around an upper and a lower lake, with a waterfall south of the first lake.

Moose are often spotted here, and salmon can be seen in First Lake. There are covered picnic benches and a charcoal grill, plus a lakeside picnic area near the parking lot. It is easy enough for all levels of hikers and works well for families.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Loop of 1 mile around First and Second Lake, rated easy, with 100 to 200 ft of gain, through spruce and hemlock forest. The trail is very well marked.

Time

About half an hour.

Crowds and best time

Best time of year is April 1 to November 1.

Parking

A parking area serves the trailhead, with a picnic area beside it. The park address is 809 Second Avenue, Seward.

Dogs

Dogs are welcome on a leash.

Kids

Easy and kid-friendly.

Hazards

Moose are often seen, so keep your distance and do not disturb them.

Mingo says

Go between April 1 and November 1, the best stretch of the year for this walk. Give any moose along the lakes plenty of room.

Before you go

• Be out of the park by dusk, when it closes.
• Bring dogs on a leash.
• Set your map to 809 Second Avenue, Seward, to find the parking area.

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