Eklutna Lake
Eklutna, AK
A glacial lake in Chugach State Park, 10 miles up a winding road from the Glenn Highway. A lakeside trail is open to bikes and walkers; there is a campground and a parking fee.
Eklutna Lake in Chugach State Park is fed by glacial meltwater and has more than 24 km (15 miles) of shoreline. From the Eklutna exit at Mile 26 of the Glenn Highway, follow the signs for about 16 km (10 miles) to the lake. A day-use parking fee applies, and there is also a campground.
The Lakeside Trail follows the shore for about 21.8 km (12.7 miles) one way to Eklutna Glacier, gaining only around 90 m (300 feet) along the way; you will see steep valley walls and waterfalls. The trail is open to hikers and cyclists, and to ATVs on certain days of the week. The Yuditnu and Serenity Falls public-use cabins lie along the trail. You can kayak and canoe on the lake, with rentals available on site. Near the highway exit, it is worth stopping at Eklutna Historical Park, whose cemetery's brightly painted spirit houses reflect Russian Orthodox and Dena'ina traditions.
- Nearest town
- Eklutna, AK
- Category
- Nature & parks
- GPS
- 61.4104, -149.1470
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
No month is ideal everywhere on this route; the most pleasant are usually June–August. Cold, short days in November–April. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
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FAQs
Where is Eklutna Lake?
Eklutna Lake is in Eklutna, AK, at GPS 61.4104, -149.1470. It is about 13 mi from Palmer.
Which road trips pass Eklutna Lake?
Eklutna Lake is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Glenn Highway and Hatcher Pass and Tidal bore, glaciers and gravel dust: by camper along the Seward Highway, Parks Highway and Denali Highway.
What is there to see near Eklutna Lake?
Places worth a stop nearby: Thunderbird Falls (8 mi), Alaska Native Heritage Center (23 mi), Independence Mine State Historical Park (27 mi) and Flattop Mountain (28 mi).
When is the best time to visit Eklutna Lake?
No month is ideal everywhere on this route; the most pleasant are usually June–August. Cold, short days in November–April. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)