Crooked Lake Trail connects the Big Lake area with trails to the west and north. The trail heads west from Papoose Twins Lake Road and connects with the Iron Dog Trail, which then continues on to the Susitna River. The trail is approximately 10 miles long from Papoose Twins Lake Road to the Iron Dog Trail. The trails traverse large swamps and ridges of mixed forest. Crthwest for about 5 miles then turning southwest for 7 ½ miles where it intersects with the Crooked Lake Trail. The Iron Dog continues west-northwest for another 5 miles where it ends at the banks of the Susitna River – an area known as ‘Susitna Station.' From the Susitna River trail travelers can follow the frozen rivers to points south, north or west up the Yentna River, or connect to the Iditarod National Historic Trail, which also crosses the Susitna River at the Susitna Station.
How to get There
Crooked Lake Trail: From the intersection with Parks Highway MP 52.3, follow Big Lake Road 3.6 miles, stay to the left at the Y, which is S. Big Lake Road ( it turns into West Susitna Parkway), follow for another 10 miles until you reach the intersection with LacViex Drive (right), and W. Papoose Twin Lake Road (straight ahead). Continue straight ahead on W. Papoose Twin Lake Road (which is a narrow gravel road) for 1 ¼ mile. Crooked Lake Trail takes off from the road. There is very limited parking here, so be careful not to block the road. Note - The Matanuska- Susitna Borough has plans to build a trailhead when funding allows, but until then parking is along the road or on little side roads where there is room to turn around.
Iron Dog Trail: From the intersection with Parks Highway MP 52.3, follow Big Lake Road 3.6 miles, go left at the Y to the Big Lake South Wayside, or go right at the Y to the Big Lake North Wayside. There are several private lodges and marinas that also plow areas on the lake for parking. It varies from year to year, so check with the lakeside businesses for information.
Trail Uses
The Crooked Lake Trail and Iron Dog Trail are winter trails, used primarily by snowmachiners, dog mushers, and skiers; but snowshoers, skijorers and winter bikers also use them.
*Take note: Near Hock Lake and the Susitna Station there are several side trails that lead to private property. Stay on the main trail and avoid trespassing on Private Property. Many local recreational and professional dog mushers use these trails. If traveling by snowmachine be cautious and yield to dog teams. Pull over, shut off machine and wait while dog teams pass.
