Beach Lake, Birchwood

Finding this trail in December 2015 on a blog, I finally tried it with a few friends.  And it worked.  It was a nice easy flat hike with amazing views.  We even saw Denali!


Directions from Palmer, AK.  Take the South Birchwood Loop Exit from the Glenn Highway. Turn right pass the Chugach High School.   After a chalet on your left, take a left onto Beach Lake Road and follow it over railroad tracks to the where it ends at a large parking lot. There is NO FEE, and restrooms (thank you).

The trail to the inlet starts to the left of the lake and follows close to the lake weaving in and out of the trees.  It is quite close to the lake at times, so watch your children when it bends back towards the water.

You can go inland away from the Lake and catch the mushing trail that is wider.  At the far end, there is a sign on the ground pointing the way to the inlet.  From this trail, you can take your pick of trails towards the inlet. 

 
Typically, there is a small stream that you can follow towards the beach.



Currently it was frozen with nice mud/icebergs floating in the inlet!

I was thankful a little extra hiking and exploring to the grassy area but was definitely too wet to sit.

 Please bring a change of clothes or something to protect the seats for the ride home.  That mud is soooo fun to play in.

The way back was easy to find a fun for all.


Our stats says 2.20 miles round trip, 238 ascent and 238 decent. We were very casual and took over an hour.