If you’re looking for a true Alaskan adventure, Iliamna Lake is one of the most remote and breathtaking destinations you can explore. This massive body of water, nestled between Lake Clark National Park and Katmai National Park, is not only Alaska’s largest lake but also one of its deepest and cleanest. At 77 miles long and with depths reaching 900 feet, Iliamna Lake offers stunning, pristine waters surrounded by untouched wilderness. The best part? It's still largely off the beaten path, so you’ll experience Alaska’s beauty without the crowds.

Getting to Iliamna Lake is part of the adventure. The lake is located in southwest Alaska and the only way to access it is by plane or boat. Most visitors fly into the small town of Iliamna, a quick 45-minute flight from Anchorage. From there, you can explore the lake by boat, kayak, or even plane tour. This seclusion makes the trip feel like a step back in time, where you can truly appreciate the grandeur of Alaska’s natural beauty.

The lake itself is a sight to behold. The water is crystal clear, with a mesmerizing blue-green hue. It is surrounded by a rugged landscape of mountains, valleys, and tundra. One fun fact is that Iliamna Lake is connected to Bristol Bay via the Kvichak River, which is why it sometimes hosts unexpected marine visitors like harbor seals and even the occasional beluga whale. These sightings are rare, but they add to the lake’s mystique and its status as a place of legend and lore, including stories of the elusive Iliamna Lake Monster!

What truly sets Iliamna Lake apart, though, is its role as a key spot in Alaska’s natural ecosystem. The lake is famous for hosting the world’s largest red salmon run, drawing fishermen from across the globe. If you visit in the summer, you might catch sight of fishermen and locals alike reeling in these prized fish. Other species such as trout and grayling also inhabit the lake, making it a paradise for anglers.

But even if fishing isn’t your thing, Iliamna Lake offers plenty of other ways to experience its beauty. You can kayak along its pristine shores, camp at one of the many remote spots around the lake, or hike through the surrounding wilderness. Incredible views of towering mountains ring the lake, and if you venture far enough, you can get glimpses of nearby volcanoes like Mount Redoubt.

The best time to visit Iliamna Lake is during the summer months, from June to September when the weather is warmer and the days are long. The lake is relatively calm during this time, making it perfect for water activities and exploring the surrounding national parks. Whether you’re flying over it or paddling through its clear waters, the sheer size and beauty of the lake will leave you in awe.

For those who are after a truly unique Alaskan experience, Iliamna Lake is a destination that combines adventure, seclusion, and jaw-dropping natural beauty.

If you’re headed out to enjoy this clear freshwater lake, make sure you grab all of the gear needed at REI. And you’ll probably want to brush up on your Iliamna Lake Monster lore.