Updated Guide: Eagle & Symphony Lakes Hike, Alaska (January 2026)
One of Anchorage’s classic day hikes, this ~12-mile round-trip trail in Chugach State Park leads to two stunning side-by-side lakes with strikingly different colors—milky seafoam Eagle Lake (glacier-fed) and vibrant turquoise Symphony Lake (snow/rain-fed).
Aerial view showing the contrasting lake colors.
Trail Stats
- Distance: ~12 miles RT
- Elevation Gain: ~1,560 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate (mostly gradual; boulder field challenging)
- Time: 5–7 hours RT
- Best Season: June–Sept (berry picking Aug–Sept); popular year-round but snowy/icy in winter.
Trail remains well-maintained and heavily trafficked in summer—popular for hiking, trail running, backpacking.
Trail Description
Starts easy through forest, crosses South Fork Eagle River twice (bridges), passes Hanging Valley junction, then hits infamous boulder field (cairns mark route—slow going).
Reach Eagle Lake first, then narrow isthmus to Symphony. Hexagon shelter on isthmus for wind/rain break. Climb far hill for best dual-lake views.
Side Options
- Hanging Valley: Lush green detour with tarns.
- Flute Glacier: Beyond Eagle Lake—stream crossings, waterfall scramble.
- Others: Harp Mt, Rendezvous Peak, Hunter Pass.
Practical Info
- Trailhead: South Fork Eagle River (Hiland Rd exit off Glenn Hwy). $5 day parking fee (Chugach State Park pass required—not covered by annual passes at some lots). Outhouse available.
- Camping: Permitted (no open fires; stoves OK). Good spots far sides of lakes or Hanging Valley. Use bear vault.
- Safety: Bear/moose country—carry spray, make noise. Popular trail = usually others around.
Iconic Anchorage-area hike with epic payoff—highly recommended for fit visitors! Check AllTrails/DNR for latest conditions.