There are so many beautiful lakes in Alaska, and we are lucky to have lots of trails to take advantage of some of the most incredible scenery in the world. We found one great hike that leads to the most crystal blue lake in Alaska, Carter Lake on the Kenai Peninsula!
Carter Lake Trail is a gorgeous trail through the backcountry on the Kenai Peninsula.
Ryjil Christianson / AllTrails It’s a moderately difficult trail. There are many steep parts, and during early spring you may have to ford some small streams.
You will head through a hemlock forest to start, where some of the greatest stretch of incline is.
Claire Bloom / AllTrails Once you get through the forest the trail opens up into an alpine valley. The views are stunning as the forest recedes!
You can find some beautiful plants and wildflowers on the sides of the trail.
Sierra Roses / AllTrails If you’re lucky, you’ll also see some wildlife! Large group of dahl sheep, and plenty of brown bear and moose are seen often in the area.
There are many streams during the spring season from the snow melt.
Kyle Nickerson / AllTrails These streams are stunning, but very cold. All the streams run down to the lake, where there is some great fishing!
There are many campsites along the trail, including areas to store your food away from bears.
Deb Carlson Ward / AllTrails There are also some public service cabins for rent! They are simple options with great views of the lake. It’s a great place to relax for the weekend, especially if you bring your own boat or fishing equipment!
This hike is a favorite of many Alaskans, as the end result is a stunning lake.
Deb Carlson Ward / AllTrails Carter Lake is sparsely visited, so you’ll be sure to have this oasis all to yourself. It’s a wonderful way to experience some of the glory of Alaska’s lovely lakes!
Have you taken the Carter Lake Trail? What did you think? Do you think there’s a better contender for a crystal blue lake in Alaska? Let us know in the comments below!
Ryjil Christianson / AllTrails
It’s a moderately difficult trail. There are many steep parts, and during early spring you may have to ford some small streams.
Claire Bloom / AllTrails
Once you get through the forest the trail opens up into an alpine valley. The views are stunning as the forest recedes!
Sierra Roses / AllTrails
If you’re lucky, you’ll also see some wildlife! Large group of dahl sheep, and plenty of brown bear and moose are seen often in the area.
Kyle Nickerson / AllTrails
These streams are stunning, but very cold. All the streams run down to the lake, where there is some great fishing!
Deb Carlson Ward / AllTrails
There are also some public service cabins for rent! They are simple options with great views of the lake. It’s a great place to relax for the weekend, especially if you bring your own boat or fishing equipment!
Carter Lake is sparsely visited, so you’ll be sure to have this oasis all to yourself. It’s a wonderful way to experience some of the glory of Alaska’s lovely lakes!
Looking for another beautiful lake in Alaska to visit? Find out why There’s Something Magical About These 15 Alaska Lakes In The Summer
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