Just a couple hours drive from the city of Anchorage, the Reed Lakes Trail is a magical escape to a pair of bright blue lakes in the mountains. Just big enough for a quick dip, the days are waning when it'll be hot enough to jump in. So, don't miss this gorgeous trail in Alaska this summer and hike the Reed Lakes Trail to the crystal clear Reed Lakes.
Reed Lakes Trail is beautiful hike into the mountains in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley near Hatcher Pass. The lakes lie at about 56 miles north of Anchorage.
The trail has many options for hiking. The first two miles is easy and flat with a well maintained trail. Continue on to 4.5 miles (one way) for the Lower Reed Lake. The trail gets rockier and steeper as you go deeper into the mountains.
The full hike is 8.7 miles (one way) to Upper Reed Lake. There are fewer good camping spots up high, but the views are incredible. There are ample camping spots at Lower Reed Lake.
Once you reach the higher elevations, the mountains turn into a magical spot for dipping, lounging and exploring. Waterfalls dot the path to the star attraction, the Reed Lakes.
The Reed Lakes are small, but beautiful. The bright blue color comes from the glacial run-off that feeds the lakes. Glacial water is blue, full of silt and minerals, and ancient snow compacted for many years.
There’s a peaceful spot at Campbell Creek Estuary where the trees open up just enough to see the marshlands stretching out before you. It’s quiet, with only the soft rustle of leaves or, on some days, the faint call of a bird in the distance. This little slice of Anchorage feels like a hidden sanctuary, a place where I can let the world fall away for a while and simply exist in nature. I come here often with my family, not only because it’s close and convenient, but also because it’s one of the few places where we can enjoy the beauty of Alaska within the city of Anchorage without the crowds. It’s a great, family-friendly hiking trail in Alaska.
Anchorage has its share of well-loved parks and trails, but Campbell Creek Estuary offers something unique. Managed by Great Land Trust, the estuary is specifically protected as a quiet space for wildlife, keeping it from becoming too busy or overdeveloped. There's no entrance fee here, a rarity these days, yet it remains beautifully maintained. The main trail is an easy, flat path that leads you on a loop around the estuary, perfect for family outings and accessible enough for young kids. Every time we visit, I’m struck by the calm that seems to settle over the entire area as soon as we step onto the trail. It’s one of my favorite hiking trails in Alaska.
On a recent visit, I took a moment to pause at one of the interpretive signs, explaining how the estuary serves as a vital habitat for migratory birds. Looking out over the marsh, I could see why so many species would stop here. A casual birdwatcher can spot dozens of different species flitting between the trees and over the water.
Our favorite section of the trail is a stretch that runs along the edge of the marshlands. It’s a view I never get tired of, with layers of green from the tall grasses leading to the shimmering water and, beyond that, the distant mountains. On clear days, the scene is almost surreal, and I find myself slowing down, savoring the sight before me. My daughter loves this part, too. She races ahead, then stops to look back with a big smile, pointing out everything she notices—a bird, a flower, or a trail of animal tracks in the mud.
One of the things I love about the estuary is that every visit feels different. Some days, the path is bright with wildflowers. On other days, we might spot moose tracks left in the mud after a recent rain. Moose are frequent visitors here, and while we haven’t had a close encounter, I’ve heard stories from other hikers who have spotted them grazing quietly near the trees. Foxes are also known to roam the area, though they’re a bit more elusive, usually spotted early in the morning or around dusk.
In the winter, Campbell Creek Estuary takes on an entirely new character. The marshlands freeze, the trees are dusted with snow, and a deep quiet settles over everything. I still bring my family here during these colder months, bundling up for a brisk walk. The snow makes the trail look like something out of a postcard, and I’m often struck by how serene it feels. There’s a certain magic in watching our breaths puff out into the cold air as we walk, each step crunching in the snow.
When spring arrives, the estuary starts to come alive again. Buds appear on the trees, and the grasses push their way back up through the softening ground. Migratory birds return in droves, and it feels like the entire area breathes a sigh of relief as winter loosens its grip. My family and I love to take early spring walks here, watching the estuary wake up. My daughter is fascinated by the tiny purple and blue flowers that start to bloom along the edges of the trail, and she eagerly points them out, asking questions about each one.
Summer brings a lushness to the estuary that’s hard to describe. There’s no rush, no agenda. We let the time pass, watching as the marshes and trees provide a quiet backdrop. The only sounds are the occasional bird calls and the gentle rustling of the leaves in the breeze.
advertisement
Even as fall approaches and the air turns crisp, Campbell Creek Estuary remains a draw. It’s one of the best times to visit if you’re looking for peace and quiet since the crowds thin out as the days get shorter. I find myself reflecting during these autumn walks, feeling grateful for this peaceful spot where my family and I can connect with nature throughout the year.
If you’re looking for a quiet place to unwind, Campbell Creek Estuary is a hidden gem just a short drive from Anchorage. The trail is easy, the scenery is beautiful, and there’s a sense of tranquility here that’s hard to find elsewhere. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, it’s worth taking the time to explore this special place.
If you need some gear for the upcoming season, I love to shop at my local REI. Looking for more challenging trails? These are some of the best hikes in Alaska.
If you’re on the hunt for a perfect fall hike in Alaska, let me introduce you to the Chena River Nature Trail in Chena River State Recreation Area. This hidden gem near Fairbanks is a 2-mile trail that transforms into an autumn wonderland every fall. The colors here are incredible, and if you time it just right, you’ll be treated to a sea of gold, yellow, and orange leaves lining your path.
The Chena River Nature Trail is easily accessible, located about 30 minutes east of Fairbanks along the Chena Hot Springs Road. The state recreation area is well-marked, so finding the trailhead is pretty straightforward. Just look for the signs directing you to the park’s main entrance and you’ll be on your way to a lovely fall adventure.
As soon as you set foot on this trail, you’ll notice how the surrounding forest is bursting with color. The trail is lined with birch, aspen, and spruce trees, which turn vibrant shades of yellow and gold in the fall. The mix of colors against the backdrop of the Chena River makes for a magical experience. The reflection of the autumn foliage on the river’s surface is simply stunning, adding an extra layer of beauty to this already picturesque setting.
The Chena River Nature Trail is relatively easy and great for all skill levels. It’s mostly flat, with a few gentle slopes, making it perfect for a leisurely walk or a casual hike with the family.
The Chena River State Recreation Area is known for its diverse wildlife. While hiking the trail, keep your eyes peeled for signs of local critters. Moose, beavers, and even bald eagles are known to frequent this part of the park.
Fairbanks’ autumn comes a bit earlier than other parts of the state, so you’ll want to plan your trip around then to catch the leaves at their most vibrant. However, even if you arrive slightly before or after peak color, the trail still offers a stunning walk through Alaska’s natural beauty.
Getting to the Chena River Nature Trail is half the fun. The drive along Chena Hot Springs Road is lovely, especially in the fall when the trees lining the road are blazing with color. Once you arrive at the recreation area, you’ll find plenty of parking near the trailhead. The trail is part of a larger network of paths, so if you’re in the mood for more exploring after your hike, you can venture further into the park.
Need some new hiking boots for this fall? I love the ones at REI. If you’re looking for another fun hiking experience in Fairbanks, I love hiking with reindeer!
