Fuller Lakes Trail

The trail offers distinct beauty throughout the year. Late summer provides excellent berry-picking opportunities, especially near Upper Fuller Lake, while autumn is particularly stunning for leaf-peeping with vibrant fall colors. Be prepared for potentially wet or muddy sections, especially between the two lakes, regardless of the season.

The Fuller Lakes Trail is located within the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge in Cooper Landing, Alaska. While specific parking details aren't provided, trailheads within national wildlife refuges typically have designated parking areas. It's always a good idea to check the official Kenai National Wildlife Refuge website for the most current access information.

The Fuller Lakes Trail is situated within the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Generally, national wildlife refuges do not require entrance fees for day use, but it's always best to verify current regulations directly with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge office. You can find more information on their official website: fws.gov.

Regulations regarding dogs in the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge can vary. While many trails in national wildlife refuges allow leashed dogs, it's crucial to confirm the specific rules for the Fuller Lakes Trail and the surrounding wilderness area directly with the refuge authorities to ensure compliance and protect local wildlife. You can often find this information on the official refuge website or by contacting their visitor center.

The trail begins with a rapid and steep climb, which can be challenging for joggers. After this initial ascent to Lower Fuller Lake, the elevation gain to Upper Fuller Lake is minimal, and the path gradually levels off. The surface consists of native ground, bridges, and stairs. Be prepared for potentially wet or muddy sections, especially between the two lakes, and sturdy footwear is recommended. Some areas may also have downed trees from past fire impacts.

You'll jog through mixed white spruce and aspen forests, with views of Mystery Creek and Skilak Lake. As you ascend, the trees thin, revealing meadows with wildflowers like fireweed, cranberries, and raspberries in season. The highlight is reaching the clear sub-alpine waters of Lower Fuller Lake and Upper Fuller Lake, the latter offering an "infinity pool"-like vista. Wildlife spotting opportunities include beaver, black and brown bears, Dall sheep on alpine slopes, and various bird species like ptarmigan, grouse, and eagles. Arctic grayling and Dolly Varden are found in the lakes.

Yes, the trail leads to some of the oldest trees in the area. Near Upper Fuller Lake, you can find mountain hemlocks that date back to the 1500s, offering a glimpse into the region's ancient forests.

For a jogger, the entire out-and-back route, which covers approximately 11.5 kilometers, typically takes around 1 hour and 25 minutes. This duration accounts for the trail's difficult grade and significant elevation gain.

Yes, the route for the Fuller Lakes Trail also passes through sections of the Skyline Traverse Trail, covering about 61% of that path, in addition to being 100% on the Fuller Lakes Trail itself.

The trail begins with a rapid and steep climb in elevation. This initial section is the most challenging part for joggers, requiring significant effort. However, once you pass this ascent to Lower Fuller Lake, the path becomes more manageable with minimal elevation gain between the two lakes, gradually leveling off in the forest.

The Fuller Lakes Trail is primarily an out-and-back route. You will jog to the lakes and then return along the same path. The total distance for the round trip is approximately 11.5 kilometers.