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NatureHiking

Climb High Up Into The Mountain Range To See This Alpine Lake Up Close In Alaska

The Carter Lake Trail in Alaska offers a stunning hike to an alpine lake with beautiful mountain views.

Published Jul 14, 2021

Written by 

Megan McDonald

If you want to get out and enjoy the mountains, the Carter Lake Trail in Alaska will take you straight to a stunning alpine lake. This stunning hike will take you straight up into the mountains outside Moose Pass, and bring you right to a beautiful lake reflecting the surrounding countryside.

If you’re looking to get out into the mountains, there’s one great hike you need to try.

A serene mountain landscape with a calm lake reflecting the surrounding peaks and colorful wildflowers in the foreground.
Ryjil Christianson / AllTrails

The Crater Lake Trail in Alaska is a wonderful, moderately difficult trail in the Chugach National Forest. This is a great day hike, especially in the summertime.

The trail passes through forest before it opens up above the tree line.

A mountain covered in snow rises above a dense forest of evergreen trees, with dry, brown vegetation in the foreground.
Leah Okrainsky / AllTrails

The hike up through the forest is steep but short. It’s where most of the 1,105 ft elevation gain happens.

This a fantastic out and back trail.

A winding dirt path through lush greenery and trees under a cloudy sky.
Matthew Counts / AllTrails

The whole distance is 3.7 miles long, and it’s relatively easy once you break out of the forested section.

The valley after your ascension is filled with stunning views.

A serene landscape featuring a valley with mountains, a river, and overcast skies, surrounded by lush greenery.
Chris Benning / AllTrails

You’ll walk through the meadows, and over streams. If you’re visiting in the springtime you may have to ford through creeks swollen with snow melt.

There are some limited boardwalk sections, and overall the trail is pretty well maintained.

A wooden path winds through lush greenery under a cloudy sky, leading into a serene natural setting.
Mansi Pedgaonkar / AllTrails

Different seasons will bring different challenges. Do remember to bring your bear spray because this is definitely bear country.

The trailhead of this great hike is right on the side of the Seward Highway.

A winding dirt path through lush greenery, leading towards a mountain under a cloudy sky.
Chris Benning / AllTrails

There’s plenty of parking, and there’s no fee. It’s an easy place to spot as you’re driving along, too.

This incredible hike should be on everyone's bucket list.

A serene lake reflects green hills and mountains under a clear blue sky.
Chloe Young / AllTrails

The next time you’re headed to Seward, or spending the night in Moose Pass, take a detour to enjoy this trail. This is one you’ll want to do again and again!

Have you ever hiked the Carter Lake Trail in Alaska? What did you think? Did you enjoy the alpine lake? Let us know in the comments below.

If you’re looking for more great trails in Alaska, 15 Incredible Hikes Under 5 Miles Everyone In Alaska Should Take.This

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