Grewingk Glacier Lake Trail

This trail, hands down, is one of the most popular hikes in the Kachemak Bay State Park. It is one of the easiest hikes in the park as the trail is well maintained, and you can't beat the view of the glacier at the lake. For the first 1.5 miles, the trail meanders through mixed cottonwood and Sitka spruce. These cottonwoods are some of the largest in the park so take time to appreciate their enormous size. After 1.5 miles, the trail proceeds straight towards the lake on alluvial flats. Keep an eye out for small hawks and bald eagles hunting from treetops in this area. At 2.7 miles you pass the Saddle Trail junction. This trail will lead you over to Halibut Cove where you will most likely be picked up by your water taxi. The final stretch of trail heads through a heavy alder section before spitting you out on the lake shore for your spectacular views. Enjoy lounging on the beach, watching icebergs or exploring up the beach looking for wildlife (the occasional black bear has been spotted along the trail).

Schedule a kayak paddle on the lake with a local guide or base here and hike to the glacier or Alpine Ridge. Camping here is an ideal Alaskan experience. You can camp at Rusty's Lagoon, at Rusty's Campsite (watch for the short Spur Trail less than half a mile in), or backpack in and camp on the beach at Glacier Lake. Privies are available at the trailhead and the lake. This hike generally takes 1.5-2 hrs each way.

Like most hikes in Kachemak Bay, you will need to schedule a water taxi to gain access to the trailhead.