Where is Eklutna Lake,Chugiak, Alaska?

Written by | Updated On: December 03, 2025, 14:30 ET

Eklutna Lake is located in Alaska, USA. It lies between Anchorage and the Chugach Mountains and is situated about 40 km (25 mi) northeast of Anchorage. The lake is famous for its beautiful mountain scenery, hiking, kayaking, and outdoor recreation.

Eklutna Lake Location Map,Chugiak, Alaska

Top Attractions Inside Eklutna Lake

  • Eklutna Lake Recreation Area – Scenic area offering picnicking, swimming, and access to the lake for relaxation.
  • Kayaking & Canoeing – Calm waters ideal for paddling and exploring the lake’s shoreline and inlets.
  • Hiking Trails – Trails along the lake and surrounding forests providing views of mountains and wildlife.
  • Fishing Spots – Opportunities to fish for trout and other freshwater species in the lake.
  • Mountain Biking Trails – Multi-use trails around the lake offering adventure and scenic vistas.
  • Camping Areas – Designated spots for day-use picnics and overnight camping near the lake.
  • Wildlife Observation – Spot moose, eagles, and other Alaskan wildlife in and around the lake area.

Eklutna Lake Facts

Official NameEklutna Lake
LocationChugiak, near Anchorage, Alaska, USA
Latitude & Longitude61.409° N, 149.084° W
Total AreaApproximately 1,400 acres (Lake surface area)
TypeGlacial freshwater lake
Established / Protected StatusPart of Chugach State Park (established 1970)
Managed ByAlaska Division of Parks & Outdoor Recreation
RegionSouthcentral Alaska
AddressEklutna Lake, Chugach State Park, Chugiak, AK 99567, USA
Zip Code99567
Area Code907
CurrencyUnited States Dollar (USD)
Time ZoneAlaska Time (AKST UTC−9 / AKDT UTC−8)
Theme / ConceptGlacial lake recreation, mountain scenery, wilderness, outdoor adventure
Main Features / AreasEklutna Lake Trail, Lakeside Campgrounds, Bold Ridge Trail, Canoe & Kayak Launch, Day-Use Areas
Famous AttractionsGlacial blue lake, kayaking, mountain biking trail, hiking routes, alpine views, wildlife observation
Annual VisitorsEstimated 100,000+ (varies by season)
Entry Fee TypePaid Parking Fee (State Park Day Use)
Fee Range~$5–$10 per vehicle (varies by season)
ActivitiesKayaking - Hiking - Camping - Mountain Biking - Fishing - Wildlife Viewing - Picnicking
Best Time to VisitJune–September for warmest weather; Winter for snow biking & cold-weather recreation
Nearby AirportTed Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) – ~40 miles (64 km)
TransportationPrivate vehicle - Biking - Hiking; No public transit directly to the lake
Official Websitehttps://dnr.alaska.gov/parks

Distances from Eklutna Lake to Nearby Landmarks

  • Eklutna Lake Recreation Area – 0 km (0 mi)
  • Eklutna Village – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Chugach State Park Trailhead – 10 km (6.2 mi)
  • Anchorage, AK – 35 km (21.7 mi)
  • Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson – 40 km (24.9 mi)
  • Alaska Native Heritage Center – 37 km (23 mi)
  • Glenn Highway Access – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Byers Lake – 150 km (93 mi)
  • Mat-Su Valley – 20 km (12.4 mi)
  • Hatcher Pass – 30 km (18.6 mi)
  • Rabbit Lake Trailhead – 12 km (7.5 mi)
  • Thunderbird Falls – 25 km (15.5 mi)
  • Portage Glacier – 75 km (46.6 mi)
  • Girdwood, AK – 70 km (43.5 mi)
  • Whittier, AK – 90 km (56 mi)
  • Turnagain Arm Scenic Drive – 40 km (24.9 mi)
  • Eagle River, AK – 15 km (9.3 mi)
  • Mirror Lake Trail – 10 km (6.2 mi)
  • Bird Creek – 60 km (37 mi)
  • Kenai Peninsula (entry) – 120 km (74.6 mi)