The best walks and hikes in Lake and Peninsula Borough

The prime hiking season is during the summer months, from June to September. During this time, the weather is mildest, daylight hours are long, and trails are generally free of snow. However, you should always be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, including rain and wind, regardless of the season.

Yes, there are several options suitable for families. The Beaver Pond Loop — Lake Clark National Park is a gentle 3.4-mile (5.5 km) walk that offers a quiet experience through birch groves. Another very short and accessible option is the Brooks Camp Cultural Site Trail — Katmai National Park, which is only about half a mile long.

The biggest safety consideration is wildlife, particularly brown bears. It is crucial to be bear-aware at all times. This means making noise while you hike, carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it, and storing food securely. Never approach wildlife.

The terrain itself can be challenging, with remote, trail-less areas. Always carry a map, compass, and a satellite communication device. Be prepared for river crossings and unpredictable weather.

Access to most trailheads and parks like Lake Clark, Katmai, and Aniakchak is primarily by small aircraft (air taxi) from hub communities like Anchorage, Homer, or King Salmon. There are very few roads in the borough. You must arrange flights in advance to your desired starting point.

The region has some beautiful waterfalls. The most well-known is Tanalian Falls in Lake Clark National Park. You can reach it via the Tanalian Falls Trail Loop, a popular 4.3-mile (6.9 km) hike through spruce and birch forest leading to the 30-foot falls.

The borough is a premier destination for experienced backpackers. For a true wilderness challenge, you can hike the 17-mile (27.6 km) Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes Road in Katmai. For a more moderate multi-day trip, the Portage Creek Trail in Lake Clark National Park offers a 6.5-mile (10.5 km) route through forests to the alpine tundra, which can be extended for overnight camping.

A layered clothing system is key to handle changing weather. Essential gear includes waterproof rain jacket and pants, sturdy waterproof hiking boots, a map and compass, a satellite communication device (like a PLB or satellite messenger), a first-aid kit, insect repellent, and bear spray. For backcountry trips, you'll need a full camping setup and a bear-resistant food container.

Yes, but facilities are limited. In areas like Lake Clark and Katmai National Parks, there are designated campgrounds, such as at Brooks Camp. However, most of the borough is open to backcountry camping. This requires self-sufficiency and strict adherence to Leave No Trace principles, including proper food storage. For more information on backcountry regulations, you can check the official park service website for Katmai.

Aniakchak is one of the wildest and least-visited places in the National Park System, offering an experience for highly skilled and self-sufficient adventurers. There are no trails or facilities. Hiking here involves navigating the vast, six-mile-wide Aniakchak Caldera, a landscape shaped by a massive volcanic eruption. It is a true wilderness expedition requiring extensive planning. You can find more details on the park's outdoor activities page.

While you can encounter bears anywhere, the area around Brooks Camp in Katmai National Park is world-famous for it. The Brooks Falls trail leads to viewing platforms where you can safely watch brown bears fishing for salmon. Remember to always maintain a safe distance and follow all park guidelines.

For a moderately challenging day hike, consider the Kontrashibuna Lake Loop in Lake Clark National Park. This 6.5-mile (10.5 km) route extends past Tanalian Falls to a serene mountain lake, offering a beautiful and rewarding experience that takes around 3 hours to complete.