Rabbit Lake in Anchorage is one of the best hikes in Anchorage and it only takes three hours to complete, which makes it an easy day hike.
At a total distance of 8.4 miles roundtrip, this hiking trail will take you to a beautiful alpine lake in the Chugach Mountains.
In this guide, I’m going to share what you need to know to hike Rabbit Lake Trail in Anchorage.
Rabbit Lake Trail Summary
Traditional Land: Dena’ina (Visit Native-Land.ca to identify whose land you live, work, and play on.)
Distance: 8.4 miles roundtrip
Time: 3 hours
Elevation Gain: 1,332 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Dogs: Yes
Quick Tips
- Parking is horrible and it’s not recommended to take oversized vehicles
- Carry bear spray
- Watch out for bikers
- Bring a towel
When is the Best Time to Hike Rabbit Lake?
The best time of the year to hike Rabbit Lake is from late June to October. It’s a popular trail for skiers in the winter.
Looking for another hike in Anchorage? Read Best Hikes in Anchorage, Alaska
How to Get to Rabbit Lake in Anchorage
- From Anchorage, head south on the Seward Highway
- Take the De Armoun Road exit and turn left onto De Armoun Rd
- Continue onto Upper De Armoun Road
- Keep right to continue on Canyon Road
- Continue onto Upper Canyon Road
- Continue onto Highland Road
- Continue onto Canyon Road
The Rabbit Lake Trailhead can be found at the end of Canyon Road. You will pass the Flattop Sunnyside Trail.
The parking area is very small and since this is a popular hike, the parking situation becomes crowded. I would recommend starting your hike early or later in the day to try and avoid the madness.
Hike Rabbit Lake in Anchorage, Alaska
Rabbit Lake Trailhead
The Rabbit Lake trailhead can be found at the very end of Canyon Road. You will see a small post, which marks the beginning of the trail.
Climbing the Valley
You will gradually climb the valley. It’s not difficult since it’s only 1,332 feet of elevation gain over 4.2 miles. However, it may feel a little bit harder if it’s really hot out.
The trail is a mix of dirt and rocks. You will probably also have to cross a few very small streams.
There is one section of the trail that becomes singletrack. It can be overgrown so stay bear aware in this area.
Chugach Mountains
As you hike this trail, you’ll have great views of peaks in the Chugach Mountains, including Flattop, Peak 2, Peak 3, Flaketop, and the mountains along the other side of the valley.
When you are just over halfway, you will have a short descent before you continue the rest of the climb to the lake.
Rabbit Lake
It took us 1 hour and 40 minutes to hike to Rabbit Lake. It’s such a gorgeous alpine lake in Anchorage. The fact that it’s surrounded by Suicide Peaks makes it even more stunning.
The water in the lake is cold but it’s very refreshing to take a dip. I highly recommend it!
Since it’s pretty much all downhill on the way back, you’ll probably save about 10 minutes on time.
Other Hikes Nearby
There are a ton of hikes in the area that you can combine with Rabbit Lake. You can make the traverse down to McHugh Creek or climb North Suicide Peak or South Suicide Peak, which sit directly behind the lake.
Happy hiking!
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Do you have any questions about hiking to Rabbit Lake in Anchorage? Leave them in the comments below.
