Kachemak Bay

Guide to Poot Peak Trail in Kachemak Bay State Park Trail Access: 0.5 miles from the bridge at China Poot Lake along the Wosnesenski Trail. Allowable Uses: Hiking Distance: 4.3 miles one way (North to South loop with summit) Elevation Gain: 2,430 feet Difficulty: Very Difficult; steep rocky climbs Hiking Time: North Route 3-4 hours; South Route 4-5 hours; Summit Route 1-2 hours Poot Peak North/ South/Summit Jct. Trail Description: This popular trail circles Poot Peak and climbs the 2,600 foot summit. The North Route (1.1 mi.) climbs from the Woznesenski River Trail, 0.4 miles from the bridge at China Poot Lake. The steep, slick, unmaintained route climbs rapidly through spruce forest, alders, and loose scree slopes. The Summit Spur leads to the peak climbing very steeply for the 0.2 miles to a rocky bench or “lower summit” (2100 feet). This is a good stop for those unprepared to summit. CAUTION: It is recommended that only climbers with rock climbing training continue beyond this point. Climbing the 2600-foot peak is hazardous due to shifting scree and rock. Hand and foot holds are poor at best, and worse when wet. The rewards above treeline include superb views of Wosnesenski Glacier and KachemakBay. The lightly used South Route (2.8-miles) begins after the Summit Spur junction, passing alder thickets, meadows, and ponds. Poot Peak South offers stunning views of alpine lakes, expansive glaciers and the Kenai Mountains. Park Access: Kachemak Bay State Park is accessed via boat from the Homer Harbor. Local water taxis can provide transportation to most park trailheads. Camping: China Poot Lake Campsite Water Availability: Moose Valley Creek; Small creek near trailhead; Seasonal snowfields; No water on peak . Special Features: The view from the summit of Poot Peak is the best in the park. South route accesses a beautiful lake studded alpine area. This is the most challenging trail in the park. Park Rules: For a complete set of park rules visit: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/kbay/kbay.htm Alaska State Parks, Kenai Area Office PO Box 1247 Soldotna, AK (907) 262 - 5581