Ptarmigan Lake Trail
- Physical DifficultyThis is the average user-submitted rating on the physical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
- Technical DifficultyThis is the average user-submitted rating on the technical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
The Ptarmigan Lake Hike is a beautiful trail near Lawing, Alaska. The path leads along energetic Ptarmigan Creek on a secluded path through lush forest. Once you reach Ptarmigan Lake, you will be embraced by the peaceful atmosphere. This location is truly beautiful and worth the effort.
Quick Navigation
Join our newsletter
Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers
Route Description for Ptarmigan Lake Trail
The hike to Ptarmigan Lake is a great day-hike for the family. To make your time as enjoyable as possible, we advise hiking earlier on the season, as later the last part of the trail gets overgrown and requires some bushwalking. If you decide to hike Ptarmigan Lake Trail later in the season, not to worry! Just make sure to cover your legs and push forward!
The hike to Ptarmigan Lake hike starts at the Ptarmigan Creek Campsite. The trailhead is easy to spot with signs pointing to it. Make your way forward!
The beginning of the trail leads you through a beautiful forest and is wide and easy to follow. You will be surrounded by Alaskan wildflowers and the hypnotizing noise of the Ptarmigan Creek.
Shortly, the texture of the trail will become rougher and you will find yourself hopping over roots and uneven parts of the route.
Soon you will reach the open mountainside of brushy meadows. This part of the trail sometimes gets overgrown at the end of the hiking season. Follow the trail on the hillside to descend to the beautiful Ptarmigan Lake.
Observe the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains (including Mt. Andy Simons on your right) and spend some time near the lake. If you are lucky enough, you might even spot a beaver!
Return the same way you came.
Find other amazing hikes around Anchorage:
Insider Hints for Ptarmigan Lake Trail
- Stay in Ptarmigan Creek Campground for the night before or after your hike
- You can follow the path along the lake for as far as the very end of the lake
- Camping near the lake is permitted. There’s even a bear box there!
- Take your fishing rod with you, but make sure you are familiar with local sport fishing regulations.
Getting to the Ptarmigan Lake Trail Trailhead
Take the Seward Highway (AK-1) from Anchorage towards south and go around 144.8 km, then continue straight to State Highway 9 (Seward). After 22.2 km you will cross the railroad, then take the second left turn, where the sign pointing to Ptarmigan Campground and Trail is. Park your car there.
Route Information
Ptarmigan Lake Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherPtarmigan Lake Trail Reviews
Add a comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.
Nearby Trails
- Colorado Trail Segment 13 via South Cottonwood Trailhead
- Poplar Gulch Hike
- Avalanche Gulch via Main Range Trail
- Brown’s Cabin Trail
- Hartenstein Lake Hike
- Kroenke Lake Hike
- Bear Lake via Horn Fork Trail
- Texas Creek Trail
- Collegiate Peaks Campground Hike
- Ptarmigan Lake Trail
- Mount Yale Summit Hike
- Ptarmigan Lake Trail