Williwaw Lakes

The feel

A string of alpine tarns sits in the basin of a beautiful valley under the Chugach. The open alpine invites exploring, and with nine lakes to choose from there is room for solitude even though the hike is popular.

The way in crosses the hillside on the Middle Fork Loop Trail, through prime moose habitat. In fall you may see rutting displays. This is a long day hike or a backpacking destination, and it is good skiing country in winter.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 13 miles total, with 1400 ft of gain, climbing from 2030 ft to 3430 ft. Reached via the Middle Fork Loop Trail. To the first lake it is 5.9 miles from Glen Alps with 800 ft of gain, or 7.4 miles from Prospect Heights with 1500 ft of gain.

Time

About 6 hours.

Crowds and best time

Moose rut in fall.

Parking

Glen Alps is the shorter start: drive through the big lot to reach the smaller, lower lot.

Fees and passes

$5 parking at Glen Alps and at Prospect Heights, or an annual pass.

Dogs

On a leash in the parking lot, and under control on trails and in the backcountry.

Hazards

Moose on the hillside.

Season and access

Good skiing in winter. Camping is only allowed more than 1/2 mile from the trailhead.

Mingo says

Go in fall if you want to see moose in rut along the way. Come in winter on skis if you prefer snow.

Before you go

• Pay the $5 parking fee at Glen Alps or Prospect Heights, or use an annual pass.
• Carry a portable camp stove if you plan to camp, since open fires are prohibited.
• Contact Fort Richardson for access regulations before using Williwaw Pass into the North Fork Campbell Creek Valley.

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