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lake clark NATIONAL PARK
Lake Clark is one of Alaska's most diverse and magnificent parks to visit. It is unforgettable to be surrounded by crystal clear lakes reflecting massive glaciers and volcanoes. Despite being one of the country's most inaccessible national parks, Lake Clarke is a must-see in Alaska due to its stunning beauty and unique geological diversity.
Mighty mountains, pairs of volcanoes, dozens of glaciers, spectacular waterfalls, an abundance of salmon, bears and other diverse populations of Alaska wildlife await visitors to Lake Clark National Park, including a camping near a mountain lake where there are no other people, although there are many bald eagles and bears. Two of the park's volcanoes, Iliamna and Redoubt, are active and rise majestically into the sky over 9800 feet.
Information
Take a kayak ride on the lake and you are likely to have an unforgettable experience of extraordinary nature and fabulous surroundings. Tourism is a favorite pastime for all those who visit this beautiful place and it is varied - from short easy day hikes to waterfalls and long hikes like Mount Tanalian, where you will be rewarded with panoramic views of Lake Clark, the bay and mountains.
The park is open all year round, although most people visit from June to September.
Plan your visit for the summer. At the end of June, wildflowers are in full bloom and boggle the imagination. For fall foliage, plan a trip in August or late September. From June to August, the temperature remains in the 50-60s in the eastern part of the park and slightly higher in the western part.
The Field Headquarters in Port Ellsworth, the Administrative Headquarters in Anchorage and the Field Office in Homer are operational throughout the year.
Lake Clark National Park and Preserve, located in Alaska, is renowned for its rugged wilderness, stunning lakes, towering mountains, and abundant wildlife. While the park is remote and primarily accessible by floatplane, there are several notable hiking trails that provide opportunities to explore its diverse landscapes. Here are some of the best hiking trails in Lake Clark National Park:
Tanalian Falls Trail:
Distance: 3 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: This trail starts near the Port Alsworth Visitor Center and follows Tanalian Creek through a forested valley. It culminates at Tanalian Falls, a picturesque waterfall cascading over volcanic rock formations.
Kontrashibuna Lake Trail:
Distance: 6 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Description: Accessible via a boat ride across Lake Clark, this trail leads to Kontrashibuna Lake, offering views of surrounding mountains and opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing.
Tanalian Mountain Trail:
Distance: Varies (up to 10 miles round trip to summit)
Difficulty: Strenuous
Description: This challenging trail ascends Tanalian Mountain, providing expansive views of Lake Clark and the surrounding wilderness. It's a longer hike with significant elevation gain and is best suited for experienced hikers.
Twin Lakes Trail:
Distance: Varies (up to 15 miles round trip to Upper Twin Lake)
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Description: This trail starts near Port Alsworth and follows the shoreline of Lower and Upper Twin Lakes. It offers opportunities for camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing, with scenic views of the lakes and nearby mountains.
Carlson Bay Trail:
Distance: Varies (up to 7 miles round trip)
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: Accessible via floatplane or boat from Port Alsworth, this trail leads to Carlson Bay on Lake Clark. It's a relatively flat hike through boreal forests and offers opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the remote shoreline.
Moose Valley Trail:
Distance: Varies (up to 8 miles round trip)
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: This trail follows the shores of Lake Clark and Moose Creek, passing through diverse habitats including forests and wetlands. It's a good trail for wildlife viewing, especially moose, and offers peaceful hiking along the lake.
When planning to hike in Lake Clark National Park, it's important to prepare for remote wilderness conditions, including variable weather, potential wildlife encounters (including bears), and limited facilities. Obtain current trail information and safety tips from the visitor center or ranger station before embarking on any hike. Carry bear spray, hike in groups when possible, and practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize impact on the environment.
Official name - LAKE CLARK National Park
Mailing Address: PO Box 227 Port Alsworth, AK 99653
Area: 4,030,015 acres
Coordinates: 60°58′N 153°25′W
Established - December 2, 1980
Attendance - 14,500 people per year
