Recreational Area in Anchorage

Lake Eklutna is in many ways, the perfect wilderness destination in Alaska. It is "in the wild" enough to expose visitors to that side of Alaska, but it is only about 30 miles northeast of Anchorage, making it an easy trip to make in a day. The lake and the area surrounding it is scenic and peaceful. Bikes can be rented from the nearby campground for riding around the lake trail. The entire ride around the lake is about 22 miles. If you continue down the trail at the farther end of the lake you can hike on foot to a glacier. Be sure you are dressed properly if you decide to take the hike because the weather can change rapidly. There is wildlife in the area but most of it is of the small game variety and not dangerous. The trail can be taken with a bike, but it does get rocky near the glacier. The Eklutna Campground offers cabin, tent, and RV camping. There are education displays set up around the campground, as well as a variety of spaces for relaxing and picnicking. Larger shelters are available for bigger groups and can be rented. On the grounds are 45 campsites, fire pits, latrines, water, a ranger station, trails for ATV use, horseback riding, and biking, and boating and fishing is open during the summer season.