Ptarmigan Lake Trail hike
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Ptarmigan Lake Trail hike
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The Ptarmigan Lake Hike is a beautiful trail near Lawing, Alaska. The path leads along energetic Ptarmigan Creek on a secluded path through lush forest. Once you reach Ptarmigan Lake, you will be embraced by the peaceful atmosphere. This location is truly beautiful and worth the effort.
Getting there
Take the Seward Highway (AK-1) from Anchorage towards south and go around 90.0mi, then continue straight to State Highway 9 (Seward). After 13.8mi you will cross the railroad, then take the second left turn, where the sign pointing to Ptarmigan Campground and Trail is. Park your car there.
About
| When to do | June - October |
| Pets allowed | Yes |
| Family friendly | Older Children only |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Low |
| Route Type | Out and back |
Ptarmigan Lake Trail
Elevation Graph
Weather
Route Description for Ptarmigan Lake Trail
The hike to Ptarmigan Lake is a great day-hike for the family. To make your time as enjoyable as possible, we advise hiking earlier on the season, as later the last part of the trail gets overgrown and requires some bushwalking. If you decide to hike Ptarmigan Lake Trail later in the season, not to worry! Just make sure to cover your legs and push forward!
The hike to Ptarmigan Lake hike starts at the Ptarmigan Creek Campsite. The trailhead is easy to spot with signs pointing to it. Make your way forward!
The beginning of the trail leads you through a beautiful forest and is wide and easy to follow. You will be surrounded by Alaskan wildflowers and the hypnotizing noise of the Ptarmigan Creek.
Shortly, the texture of the trail will become rougher and you will find yourself hopping over roots and uneven parts of the route.
Soon you will reach the open mountainside of brushy meadows. This part of the trail sometimes gets overgrown at the end of the hiking season. Follow the trail on the hillside to descend to the beautiful Ptarmigan Lake.
Observe the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains (including Mt. Andy Simons on your right) and spend some time near the lake. If you are lucky enough, you might even spot a beaver!
Return the same way you came.
Find other amazing hikes around Anchorage:
Insider Hints
Stay in Ptarmigan Creek Campground for the night before or after your hike
You can follow the path along the lake for as far as the very end of the lake
Camping near the lake is permitted. There’s even a bear box there!
Take your fishing rod with you, but make sure you are familiar with local sport fishing regulations.
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Katrine Ford 4 years ago
Beautiful scenic view, I recommend wearing pants because of the overgrown bushes.
Jenny Kimmel 4 years ago
The terrain was wonderful! I was particularly impressed with the Alaskan wildflowers!
LA Bright 4 years ago
The lush scenery was breathtaking! lots of beautiful valleys!
Petre H. 5 years ago
It was an absolutely amazing experience. We were really satisfied with the scenery. It was very cold though.
sushilover77 5 years ago
This scenery is beautiful. It is a modest hike with few challenges.
Grimes W. 5 years ago
This hike is simply awesome! It felt like a different world because there was hardly anyone around.