Top 9 Lakes in Chugach National Forest
Best lakes in Chugach National Forest are found within a vast expanse in Southcentral Alaska. This region offers diverse recreational opportunities and a pristine wilderness experience. Spanning portions of the Kenai Peninsula, Prince William Sound, and the Copper River Delta, the forest features numerous lakes. These natural features provide a variety of landscapes to explore.
Best lakes in Chugach National Forest
- The most popular lakes is Shoreline of Portage Lake, a lake and viewpoint. This broad, sandy shoreline is…
Last updated: April 29, 2026
Shoreline of Portage Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Divide Lake
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Portage Lake
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Chugach State Park
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
Upper Russian Lake Cabin
Highlight • Mountain Hut
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes in Chugach National Forest.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Other adventures in Chugach National Forest
Tips from the Community
Once upon a time, you could see Portage Glacier from this viewpoint. Now it has receded behind a corner of the mountains, so from here you can only see the lake left behind by the glacier, and every so often a few icebergs might still float by. Still, the lake itself is wildly beautiful and the small visitor center nearby is interesting to visit... if it's open. More information here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/chugach/recarea/?recid=71946
1
0
Chugach State Park is the fourth largest state park in the United States, spanning approximately 495,000 acres. The park is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts due to its diversity in landscape and wildlife. Visitors may enjoy ocean shores, rivers and lakes, alpine tundra, and glaciers, as well as views of brown and black bears, moose, Dall sheep, mountain goats, and more. There are 16 trailheads providing access to 280 miles of trails in Chugach State Park.
1
0
Portage Lake is a popular destination near Anchorage, attracting visitors with its scenic allure. Once a site for icebergs, the lake's appearance has evolved due to glacier shifts. Though less frequent, glacier ice chunks still float by.
1
0
Divide Lake is flat, tranquil, and edged with grass, almost as if it sprang out of the tundra on its own. As the trail passes it and begins a downhill grade, you'll catch glimpses of the lake's outflow — Divide Creek — as it races you down to Portage Lake below.
1
0
For most people, the broad, sandy shoreline of Portage Lake marks the turnaround point of this hike — or the perfect picnic spot. The glacier is not terrible active but it does sometimes calve (break off) chunks of ice into the water. If you're in the right place at the right time you might see and hear this happen, and sometimes the resulting icebergs even make it close to shore. If you see a small cruise ship on the water that is the M/V Ptarmigan, which cruises from the visitor center on the far side of the lake to within good views of the face of Portage Glacier; more information here: https://www.graylinealaska.com/portage-glacier-cruises/ Finally, some hikers do choose to continue hiking left (south) from here, in hopes of getting closer to the face of the glacier itself. Be warned, there is a not-insignificant stream crossing in the way, and it's very dangerous to walk on, underneath, or in front of the glacier itself, as chunks of ice can and do break off of it at random intervals.
2
0
There is public access to the shore of Upper Russian Lake, but if you want to stay in the Upper Russian Lake public use cabin, it must be reserved in advance for a fee: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233006
1
0
State park with trails along the bay and up into the hills. Great place to rest and have a picnic.
2
1
About halfway between Portage Pass and Portage lake is Divide Lake, receiving its water from the hills to the north, and shaping the path following it down to Portage Lake, always with Portage Glacier in view on the other side of the lake.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most scenic lakes to visit in Chugach National Forest?
Chugach National Forest is home to many stunning lakes. Portage Lake, formed by glacial melt, offers wild beauty and occasional ice chunks. Kenai Lake is known for its large, turquoise waters and connection to the Kenai River. Upper Summit Lake provides beautiful views and is a popular spot for fishing. For a unique experience, Spencer Lake features royal-blue icebergs calved from Spencer Glacier.
Are there family-friendly lakes or activities in Chugach National Forest?
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly activities. Portage Lake is considered family-friendly. Spencer Lake is accessible by train and offers camping, hiking, nature walks, and paddling among icebergs, making it a great family destination. Ptarmigan Lake has a 3.5-mile trail suitable for family outings and a small beach for relaxation.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes in Chugach National Forest are excellent for wildlife viewing. At Crescent Lake, you might spot moose, goats, and bears. Vagt Lake is known for swans and other wildlife along its rocky shoreline. Tern Lake is a particular hotspot where visitors might see Dall sheep, mountain goats, black bears, moose, and various bird species.
What are the best hiking opportunities near the lakes?
Many lakes are integrated into extensive trail systems. The hike to Crescent Lake traverses a pine forest and offers picturesque views of snow-dotted peaks. Lost Lake is part of a popular trail system on the Kenai Peninsula, suitable for day hikes or overnight backpacking. For more options, you can explore various hiking routes in the region, including those found in the Hiking in Chugach National Forest guide.
Are there any lakes with cabins or camping facilities?
Yes, several lakes offer accommodation options. Upper Summit Lake has the seasonal Summit Lake Lodge and Tenderfoot Creek Campground. Crescent Lake features the Crescent Lake Cabin, and Vagt Lake has established campsites. Lower Russian Lake hosts a rentable 16x20-foot log cabin, accommodating up to six people.
Can I go fishing in the lakes of Chugach National Forest?
Fishing is a popular activity in many of the lakes. Upper Summit Lake is known for Dolly Varden and Rainbow Trout. Lower Russian Lake offers good fishing opportunities, and the nearby Russian River is renowned for its red salmon runs.
What unique natural features can be found around these lakes?
The Chugach National Forest boasts unique natural features around its lakes. Spencer Lake is famous for its royal-blue icebergs calved from Spencer Glacier. Shoreline of Portage Lake is known for occasional calving icebergs from Portage Glacier. Kenai Lake is notable for its distinct turquoise color, while Palmer Lakes are accessed via an area rich in gold mining history.
How can I access Spencer Lake and its glacier?
Spencer Lake is uniquely accessible primarily by train via the Spencer Glacier Whistlestop. This allows visitors to experience the royal-blue icebergs calved from the towering Spencer Glacier, offering opportunities for glacier exploration and rafting trips.
Are there any easy hiking trails near the lakes for beginners?
Yes, there are easy trails suitable for beginners. Ptarmigan Lake features a 3.5-mile trail that is considered suitable for a family outing. For more easy options, you can check out the Easy hikes in Chugach National Forest guide, which includes routes like the Russian River Falls Trail and Trail of Blue Ice.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in Chugach National Forest?
Visitors particularly enjoy the stunning scenic beauty and the diverse outdoor activities. The broad, sandy Shoreline of Portage Lake is a popular picnic spot and turnaround point for hikes. The tranquility of Divide Lake, with views of Portage Glacier, is also highly appreciated. The opportunity for wildlife spotting, fishing, and experiencing pristine wilderness are frequently highlighted.
Are there opportunities for mountain biking near the lakes?
Yes, the Chugach National Forest offers mountain biking trails that can be accessed near some of the lake areas. For example, the Crescent Creek Trail is a moderate mountain biking route. You can find more details and other routes in the MTB Trails in Chugach National Forest guide.
Which lake offers panoramic views of Prince William Sound?
Eyak Lake, located in the Copper River Delta region, offers stunning views and is accessible via the Alice Smith Intertie Trail. This trail provides panoramic vistas of Prince William Sound and the Copper River Delta.
Most popular routes in Chugach National Forest
Most popular attractions in Chugach National Forest
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake in Chugach National Forest? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
