The Most Beautiful Lake in Alaska That Most People Have Never Heard Of 

Alaska has more than 3 million lakes, but only a select few receive most of the attention. Lake Clark National Park is home to a hidden lake in Alaska that’s so remote, you have to take a float plane to get there. Surrounded by the soaring Chigmit Mountains, Lake Clark boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters that are even more breathtaking than pictures suggest. Between the remote location and the towering peaks creating a barrier around the lake, the solitude you’ll experience is too profound for words. If you’re up for a rugged, backcountry adventure, this virtually untouched slice of wilderness really lives up to Alaska’s nickname.

Why Most People Have Never Heard of This Lake

Lake Clark National Park is one of the best hidden gems in Alaska. It's the second-least-visited national park in the country, but not because it isn’t worth the trip. So few people come here simply because it’s so difficult to access. You can’t just hop in the car and drive from Anchorage; you’ll have to arrange for a floatplane to drop you off. For most people, that isn’t worth the hassle, so they opt for more accessible lakes, such as Eklutna Lake, Mendenhall Lake, Kenai Lake, and Chena Lake. I'm not undermining these scenic lakes in Alaska, but they're often crowded. Lake Clark, however, makes you feel like one of the last people on earth.

What Makes This Lake So Beautiful

Lake Clark just might be the most beautiful lake in Alaska (and maybe even one of the most beautiful lakes in America). The 42-mile-long lake boasts vibrant turquoise water that owes its color to rock flour, a powdery substance formed by glaciers. Like a postcard, Lake Clark features a dramatic backdrop of the jagged Chigmit Mountains, home to active glacial volcanoes such as Mount Iliamna. The landscape diversity is incredible, with alpine tundra, lush boreal forest, waterfalls, and the lake itself all within the park's boundaries. And the remoteness and complete lack of vehicular traffic keep the area pristine. You can't talk about underrated lakes in Alaska without mentioning Lake Clark!

What You Can Do at This Lake

Boating and fishing are among the most popular activities at Lake Clark National Park. Anglers can cast a line for Arctic grayling, trout, and five species of salmon (from May to October). Several of the best hiking trails in Alaska can be found here, including a 4-mile trail to the stunning Tanalian Falls. If you want more of a challenge, take the nearly 9-mile trek up Tanalian Mountain for sweeping panoramic views of the lake and snow-capped peaks. You can also take a guided day tour to safely observe and photograph brown bears during the salmon run. Highly experienced backcountry explorers can kayak, canoe, and raft on wild rivers such as the Chilikadrotna and Tlikakila. You can also see the historic cabin of Dick Proenneke, a naturalist who lived alone in the Alaskan wilderness. While swimming isn't allowed here, there are plenty of secret swimming spots in Alaska that make up for it.

What To Know Before You Go

You'll need to arrange your visit through an authorized air taxi outfitter, such as Lake Clark Air. Entrance to Lake Clark National Park is free. Lodging is available in Port Alsworth, where the park's visitor center is located (backcountry camping is allowed within the park). July through September is the best time to visit. Floatplanes and guided tours are fully operational, and salmon begin flooding the streams in July, drawing large numbers of grizzlies to the coast.

Bears are the primary safety concern. Store all of your food in an approved bear-resistant container (BRC—these are available at the visitor center), bring bear spray, and know the differences in how to react if you are approached by a grizzly versus a black bear. As in many nature destinations across Alaska, cell service is nonexistent, so you'll need a satellite phone for emergencies.

Is It Worth the Trip?

If you're looking for true solitude and have experience navigating the Alaskan wilderness, Lake Clark National Park is absolutely worth the trip. The vibrant turquoise waters and remote location make it a standout destination. Visit the National Park Service website for more information about the logistics of planning a trip to one of the best lakes in Alaska.