10 routes · Gravel Biking · Hiking · Road Biking

Eklutna Lakeside Trail
A scenic ride along the lake, which can be used to access much deeper backcountry.
Gravel Biking Moderate
- Distance
- 19 km
- Ascent
- 490 m
- Descent
- 438 m
- Duration
- 1-2 hrs
- Low Point
- 245 m
- High Point
- 330 m
- Gradient
- 7˚

The Lakeside Trail is an artery of transportation into the interior of Chugach State Park. In the summer, it's used by hikers, bikers, and ATV riders––as a quick jaunt, all-day outing, or as the approach to a long trip in the backcountry. The trail is particularly good for biking because it follows an old roadbed, and the natural surface of glacially ground stone makes for smooth riding.
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Description
For much of the trail's length, there is actually a designated path for hiking and biking that's separate from the ATV road. This non-motorized track is much more pleasant to ride than the road, and has much better views along the lake. Look for the signs that denote non-motorized variations.
What's mapped here is a one-way route to Serenity Falls Hut. This is a beautiful and popular hut for backcountry stays near the Eklutna Glacier (reservations required). Whether using the hut or not, this is the jumping-off point for trekking toward the glacier and other remote destinations. You can bike the trail farther than the hut, but not much farther. The bridge near the hut makes a good turnaround point for a bike ride, or a stash point for continuing on foot.
You can of course go any distance out and back instead of taking the trail to its end. For a short outing, you might ride just to the "5-Mile Bridge"–– a notable bridge over a creek about 5 miles from the start of the trail. Note also that if you don't have a bike, you can rent one right at the trailhead. A local outfitter is often set up there during the summer. In the winter, Eklutna Lake remains accessible, and this trail is loved by fat-tire bikers.
Difficulty
Moderate