Day hiking opportunities are endless. Enjoy a climb up to alpine lakes and tundra meadows, a stroll across river gravel bars, or a challenging bushwhack up to a seldom-visited waterfall. There is one maintained trail system, the Tanalian Falls trail, which originates in Port Alsworth. Other day hiking spots can be reached by plane or boat.

Remember, a day hike can turn into a night spent outside if you get lost or injured. It could happen to you, regardless of your wilderness experience, how short your planned hike, or how nice the weather is when you start. Carry basic safety equipment (water, snacks, raingear, warm layers, compass, map, pocketknife) and be prepared for inclement weather. It is always helpful to let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return. We advise that you check in with rangers in Port Alsworth (907-781-2218) before your hike. See our safety page for more information.

The Tanalian Falls Trail System

Trail Description

Trail Map

The trail to the Tanalian Falls is 2.5 miles, passing through birch and black spruce forests. Openings in the forest allow good views of the beaver pond and Lake Clark itself. Wildlife use the trail too, so be alert.

The trailhead is located up the hill behind the Homestead Cafe. The early part of the trail climbs, sometimes steeply, for just over one mile then drops abruptly. A signpost indicates the junction with the beaver pond loop. The main trail narrows and goes to the right. Continue for another half mile before dropping down to the river below the falls. There is no sign marking the falls. A steep, short spur trail descends from the boardwalk to the base of the falls. The trail continues on for another mile to Kontrashibuna Lake and then peters out along the lakeshore.

Camping is allowed around the lake. Choose a site 100 feet from the water, out of sight and sound of other users and minimize your impacts. Carry out all trash - yours and anything others before you may have "forgotten."

The Beaver Pond Loop starts at the same trailhead as the falls. At the signed junction turn left. The trail is narrow, brushy, and wet in sections. At the pond the trail disappears, stay right. Walk to the area of recent beaver "logging" activity, to get above the pond. Beaver, moose and waterfowl may be seen here. Rejoin the trail near the small rise east of the beaver lodge. After walking thorough the marshy area below the beaver dam, the trail is easy to follow, crossing over a small creek and coming out on a private road. Go left, away from Tanalian Mountain, to rejoin the trailhead.

The Tanalian Mountain route starts at the same trailhead. At the signed junction turn left onto the beaver pond loop, walk about 50 yards, keeping an eye out for pink flagging on the right. It's a subtle departure from the trail. There is no trail to the top of the mountain, just flagging through the vegetation. Once out of the vegetation continue up the ridge for a total elevation gain of 3700 feet. Return the same way, if possible.

Other Day Hikes

A boat or plane ride from Port Alsworth will get you into the backcountry. There are no maintained trails in Lake Clark's wilderness. Game trails abound, but where they go and who you'll bump into traveling them lends an air of mystery to your day hike adventure! Rangers at the Port Alsworth headquarters (907-781-2218) or visitor center can offer ideas and information about day hiking.