Rabbit Lake Trail

Rabbit Lake Trail is one of Chugach State Park's most rewarding moderate hikes, leading from the Seward Highway to a remote alpine lake tucked into the mountains south of Anchorage. The trail climbs steadily through coastal spruce and birch forest before breaking into open tundra, with Rabbit Lake — a cold, clear alpine lake ringed by talus slopes and summer wildflowers — as the destination.

The trailhead sits at McHugh Creek Day-Use Area, Seward Highway Mile 111.9, about 25 minutes south of downtown Anchorage. From the parking area the trail follows the north side of McHugh Creek upstream, gaining roughly 1,500 feet over roughly 8.5 miles round trip. The route is well-worn and marked, though some stretches are rocky and can be muddy during snowmelt in June. Expect 4 to 5 hours for the full out-and-back at a moderate hiking pace.

At the lake, you're rewarded with views of the Chugach ridgeline on three sides and, on clear days, Cook Inlet to the west. The alpine bowl is a popular turnaround point, but experienced hikers sometimes continue along the ridge toward McHugh Peak for expanded summit views. Wildflowers peak in late June and July; fall color is spectacular in late August and September.

This is a wildlife corridor — black bears and moose are active in the creek drainage, particularly in the lower forested section. Make noise while hiking and carry bear spray. Weather changes fast above treeline, so pack warm layers and rain gear regardless of the forecast in the city.

A daily parking fee is required at McHugh Creek Day-Use Area. Dogs are welcome on leash. The trail is managed by Alaska State Parks; current conditions and maps are available at the Chugach State Park official website.