Crescent Creek Trail


Area Status: Open

This 6.2 mile trail climbs gradually up the narrow valley of Crescent Creek through spruce/birch forest to Crescent Lake. Frequent openings afford views of nearby mountains. Snow can remain on the upper part of the trail until early June.

Click here to download the Recreation Opportunity Guide

Crescent Creek Trail Campsites

At a Glance

Usage: Medium
Best Season: June-October
Busiest Season: Summer and Fall
Restrictions: Closed to motorized vehicles May 1- November 30. Closed to pack/saddle stock April 1- June 30. Not recommended for snowmobiles due to narrow sidehills. Winter travel not recommended past mile 3 due to avalanche hazards.
Water: Lake and streams
Restroom: Yes at trailhead
Operated By: Chugach National Forest

General Information

Directions:

At Mile 45 Sterling Highway turn south onto Quartz Creek Road. Drive past Quartz Creek and Crescent Creek campgrounds to trailhead (Mile 3.5 Quartz Creek Road). Last mile of road before trailhead is not plowed in winter.


Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Mountain Biking

Popular day ride to Crescent Lake and back. 13 miles round trip.

Difficulty Level: Intermediate

Dispersed Camping

Designated backcountry campsites at Crescent Lake.

River and Stream Fishing

Rainbow trout and grayling in Crescent Creek. Grayling season opens July 1 to allow for spawning. See Alaska Department of Fish & Game regulations.

Permit required?: Y

Day Hiking

Long but gradual hike to Crescent Lake, 13 miles round trip.

Backpacking

Can be combined with Crescent Lake Trail and Carter Lake Trail for an 18 mile through hike. 

 

Horse Riding

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Location

 
  Area/Length : 
6.2

  Latitude : 
60.502819

  Longitude : 
-149.671530

  Elevation : 
865 feet elevation gain