Best lakes around Area E (Eagle River Valley) are situated amidst the Chugach Mountains, offering diverse natural landscapes. The region features various lakes known for recreational activities like paddling, fishing, and hiking. These bodies of water provide opportunities for outdoor exploration and wildlife viewing. The area's geography includes both glacial-fed and snow-fed lakes, contributing to unique visual characteristics.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
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Popular around Area E (Eagle River Valley)
This wide trail follows along the shoreline of Shuswap Lake across boardwalks and through parklands. You'll pass by a viewing platform, benches, and picnic areas which will all invite you to stop for a while to enjoy the stunning views across the water.
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Shuswap Lake, which has over 400 kilometers of navigable coastline, is home to several species of salmonids, such as chinook salmon, coho salmon, sockeye salmon, rainbow trout, and lake trout. These fish are of great importance for recreational fishing in the area.
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This spot along the trail is where Reinecker Creek flows into Heralds Bay. You're treated to sweeping views of the bay and the end of the waterway that feeds the flow of Margaret Falls.
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The Illecillewaet Greenbelt runs through cottonwood and spruce forests and marshland, offering great riverside views. The trail is wide and well-maintained, open to walking, jogging, cycling, dog walking, birdwatching, photography, cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing in winter. The greenbelt creates easy access downtown for dining and shopping.
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Shuswap Lake, which has more than 250 miles of navigable shoreline, is home to several species of salmonids, including chinook salmon, coho, sockeye, rainbow trout, and lake trout. These fish are of great importance for recreational fishing in the area.
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Salmon Arm is a community located on the south arm of Shuswap Lake in the Thompson Okanagan region, British Columbia. This lake is known for its recreational activities, including water sports, fishing, and hiking.
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We used komoot as a guide. However, part of the road was flooded that day. Not all paths are always accessible.
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Eagle Lake and Symphony Lake are a geological rarity in the Eagle River Valley, known for their striking color contrast despite being side-by-side. Eagle Lake is an opaque, milky seafoam green due to glacial silt from the Flute Glacier, while Symphony Lake is a clear, Caribbean-like turquoise, fed primarily by snow and precipitation runoff. Both are located within Chugach State Park.
Yes, the lakes are accessible via the South Fork Eagle River Trail. This roughly 12-mile roundtrip hike offers gradual climbs and leads to a narrow isthmus separating the two lakes. The area also connects to other trails, such as the one leading to Hanging Valley Lake.
Beach Lake is ideal for relaxed paddling activities like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, with rental options often available. It's also a popular fishing spot, regularly stocked with rainbow trout, Arctic grayling, and Chinook salmon. You can also enjoy wildlife viewing, with eagles, moose, and bears frequently spotted, and explore a short walking trail on the west side.
Camping is permitted in designated areas within Chugach State Park, specifically over half a mile from the trailhead. Open fires are prohibited, but small camp stoves are allowed for cooking.
Eagle Lake and Symphony Lake are stocked with trout and grayling, making them suitable for fishing. Beach Lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout, Arctic grayling, and Chinook salmon.
Beach Lake offers a more accessible and relaxed experience, perfect for families looking to enjoy paddling, fishing, and wildlife viewing in a serene mountain setting close to the Eagle River community. The short walking trail is also suitable for families.
Hanging Valley Lake is a secluded alpine lake nestled within a beautiful valley surrounded by the Chugach Mountains. It offers a serene and less-traveled experience compared to the more popular Eagle and Symphony Lakes, making it an excellent choice for hikers seeking tranquility and breathtaking scenery.
The trail to Hanging Valley Lake is a 10-mile roundtrip hike, leading through a lush valley to the alpine lake. It can be accessed from the broader South Fork Eagle River Trail system.
The lakes in the Eagle River Valley, particularly Beach Lake, are frequented by various Alaskan wildlife. You might spot eagles, moose, and bears, especially in the more serene mountain settings.
Beyond lake-specific activities like hiking, fishing, and paddling, the broader Area E (Eagle River Valley) offers a variety of outdoor pursuits. You can find easy hikes like the Margaret Falls loop or more challenging routes such as Mount Begbie Trail. For cycling enthusiasts, there are road cycling routes available. Explore more options in guides like Easy hikes around Area E (Eagle River Valley) or Hiking around Area E (Eagle River Valley).
Within Chugach State Park, where Eagle Lake and Symphony Lake are located, camping is allowed in designated areas more than half a mile from trailheads. Open fires are prohibited, but small camp stoves are permitted for cooking. Always check for current park regulations before your visit.


Still not found your perfect lake around Area E (Eagle River Valley)? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.