McKinley Lake Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Commonly Backpacked · Fall Colors · Fishing · Historical Significance · Lake · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

This is a high bear area, especially during salmon spawning season, prepare accordingly.

This trail winds its way through mature spruce-hemlock forest and ends at the north end of McKinley Lake. Several bridges allow hikers easy crossing over small streams. This trail also provides access to two public use recreation cabins: McKinley Trail Cabin (100 yards beyond the trailhead sign) and McKinley Lake Cabin at the end of the trail. A rough, unmaintained trail continues for 1/4 mile past the lake cabin and access the remains of the Lucky Strike Mine. Interpretive signs guide the visitors through the history and remains of the abandoned mine and mining camp. Midway, Pipeline Lakes Trail joins McKinley Trail for an optional loop.

The hike is through a mature spruce-hemlock forest.
McKinley lake is a spawning ground for Salmon and wildlife such as bears might be present.