Kachemak Bay State Park was the first legislatively designated state park in the Alaska State Parks system. Kachemak Bay State Wilderness Park is the state's only legislatively designated wilderness park. There is no road access to most areas of the park, visitors normally fly in or travel by boat from Homer. Kachemak Bay is considered a critical habitat area due to the biodiversity in the area. Wildlife within the park includes marine mammals such as sea otters, sea lions, and whales, large land mammals such as moose and black bears, and numerous sea and land birds. Terrain consists of both rocky and sandy beaches, dense mountain forests, and higher up, glaciers, and icefields.
The park ranger station is located in Halibut Cove Lagoon.
Guide to Emerald Lake Loop and Mallard Bay Trails at Kachemak Bay State Park and State Wilderness Park (SP & SWP) in Alaska. Published by Alaska State Parks.
Guide to Glacier Lake, Saddle, and Blue Ice Trails at Kachemak Bay State Park and State Wilderness Park (SP & SWP) in Alaska. Published by Alaska State Parks.
Brochure of State Parks in Alaska. Published by Alaska State Parks.
Kachemak Bay SP & SWP
https://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/aspunits/kenai/kachemakbayswp.htm
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kachemak_Bay_State_Park
Kachemak Bay State Park was the first legislatively designated state park in the Alaska State Parks system. Kachemak Bay State Wilderness Park is the state's only legislatively designated wilderness park. There is no road access to most areas of the park, visitors normally fly in or travel by boat from Homer. Kachemak Bay is considered a critical habitat area due to the biodiversity in the area. Wildlife within the park includes marine mammals such as sea otters, sea lions, and whales, large land mammals such as moose and black bears, and numerous sea and land birds. Terrain consists of both rocky and sandy beaches, dense mountain forests, and higher up, glaciers, and icefields.
The park ranger station is located in Halibut Cove Lagoon.
Welcome to
Park History
For More Information
Believed to be descended from the Chugach
Eskimo, the indigenous inhabitants of this area
harvested sustenance from Kachemak Bay’s
diverse riches including fish, shellfish, marine
mammals, and birds. Archaeological remains show
evidence of thriving culture and traditions, but
around 500 A.D. these people left the bay; their
motives remain undiscovered. However, Kachemak
Bay did not remain untapped by humans for long.
By the time of European exploration, the area was
the territory of the Dena’ina Athabascans.
Homer Ranger Station
(907) 235-7024
Marine VHF Ch. 16
Kenai Area Office
PO Box 1247
Soldotna, AK 99669
(907) 262-5581
Kachemak Bay
State Park & State Wilderness Park
www.alaskastateparks.org
www.alaskastatetrails.org
Before the establishment of the park, the land
“across the bay” was a place of natural beauty,
solitude, and recreation for the people of Homer.
When Kachemak Bay State Park was designated in
June 1970, it became Alaska’s very first state park.
People quickly took to the park, making it one of
Alaska’s most loved backcountry destinations, and
over the years legislative actions added acreage
and a wilderness park. Today, there are nearly
400,000 acres of land within the parks, every one
of them the result of concerned lawmakers and
grassroots citizen action to preserve and protect
this marvelous corner of the Alaskan landscape.
Welcome
Alaska’s first state park and only wilderness park
together encompass nearly 400,000 breathtaking
acres of mountains, glaciers, forest, coastline,
and ocean. The park boasts an unmatched
variety of habitats, wildlife, and recreational
opportunities including: fishing, hunting, kayaking,
beachcombing, camping, and hiking on over 85
miles of trails leading into the backcountry. Go
where no road can take you, and set your course
for one of the wildest and most remote state parks
in the wildest and most remote state.
Tutka Lake
Background photo Alpine Ridge
Photos not otherwise credited are courtesy of Alaska State Parks employees
Overlooking Kachemak Bay and Homer Spit
Photo courtesy of Leanne Quirk
Grewingk Glacier Lake
Photo courtesy of Emily Lochart
Beachcombing
Paddle Boarding
Berry Picking
Photography
Biking
Picnicking
Bird Watching
Public-Use Cabins
Camping
Canoeing
Kite surfing in Kachemak Bay
Photo courtesy of Emily Lochart
Packrafting
Relaxing
Clam Digging
Scuba Diving
Climbing
Skiing
Exploring
Snowshoeing
Fishing
Solitude
Glacier Traversing
Tidepooling
Hiking
Surfing
Horseback Riding
Tracking
Hunting & Trapping
Whale Watching
Kayaking
Wildlife Viewing
On the Water
Getting There
Public-Use Cabins
Access to these parks is by boat or airplane. Air charters,
water taxi services, and boat rentals are available in
Homer. Check the Kachemak Bay webpage at
www.alaskastateparks.org for a list of authorized
commercial air and water taxi services.
Six public-use cabins located at Halibut Cove
Lagoon, Leisure Lake, Moose Valley, and Tutka Bay
are available for rent. Reservations can be made
up to six months in advance. For reservations and
informational fact sheets for each cabin, visit
www.alaskastateparks.org.
Red squirrel
Photo courtesy of Emily Lochart
Wildlife
Kachemak Bay is a State Critical Habitat Area with
estuaries, coves, and fjords that support a myriad
of marine wildlife. Rich intertidal zones offer natural
classrooms for marine studies. Visitors frequently
observe sea otters, harbor seals, porpoises, and various
whale species among the waves. On land, you may
spot moose, black bears, mountain goats, coyotes,
and wolves. Many bird species also inhabit the area,
including bald eagles, gyrfalcons, murres, and puffins.
Six yurts are available for rent at various locations
in Kachemak Bay State Park. A commercial
operator maintains and rents these yurts. Each yurt
sleeps a maximum of eight people and is equipped
with a wood stove. Contact the Homer Ranger
Station for more information.
China Poot campsite
Camping
Black bear cubs
Photo courtesy of Emily Lochart
Always wear a life jacket. The bay can be rough at times. When conditions
are poor, be patient as the weather often improves in the evening. Carry
food and warm clothing for an unexpected overnight. Marine charts show
many of the bay’s hazards and should be carried by all boat operators. Refer
to Nautical Chart #16645, Gore Point to Anchor Point. For more information
on safe boating, visit www.alaskaboatingsafety.org.
Yurt Rentals
Photo courtesy of Emily Lochart
Sandpipers and dunlin
Photo courtesy of Chuck Young/USFWS
Tufted puffin pair
Photo courtesy USFWS
Mountaineering
Alaska State Parks
Area Highlights
Otter eating a crab
Photo courtesy of Jill Wheeler
Backpacking
Coalition Bay yurt
Camping is allowed in most areas of the park.
Several sites throughout the park have amenities
for campers including: fire rings, picnic tables, tent
platforms, toilets, and bear-resistant food caches.
Check the
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This dataset includes GPS data collected during the summer of 2009 as part of the
Alaska State Parks Trail Inventory Project. This map product has been reviewed by park staff.
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Produced by: Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Division of Support Services,
Land Records Information Section. Date Printed:December 12, 2009.
Cartographers: Martin Stahl, Andre Kaeppele
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Kachemak Bay State Park: (907) 235-7024. Alaska State Parks: www.dnr.state.ak.us/parks. Emergency: 911.
The State of Alaska makes no expressed or implied warranties (including warranties of merchantability and fitness) with respect to the character, function, or capabilities of this product or its appropriateness for any user's
purposes. In no event will the State of Alaska be liable for any incidental, indirect, special, consequential or other damages suffered by the user or any other person or entity whether from use of the product,
any failure thereof or otherwise, and in no event will the State of Alaska's liability to you or anyone else exceed the fee paid for the product.
Glacier
Restroom
Moraine
Hand Tram
Freshwater Source
Viewpoint
Homer
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Kachemak Bay State Park
& State Wilderness Park
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15
50
30
100
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Guide to
Alpine Ridge Trail
Trail Description:
in Kachemak Bay State Park
A popular, quick route to alpine areas, this trail begins near the high point on the Saddle Trail and steeply
follows a ridge through spruce and alder to alpine tundra, ending on a treeless knoll (near 2100 feet), with
spectacular views of Grewingk Glacier and a deep glacial valley. Alpine tundra above treeline invites further
exploration of the ridge.
Park Access:
Kachemak Bay State Park is
accessed via boat from the
Homer Harbor. Local water
taxis can provide transportation to most park trailheads.
Trail Access: Saddle Trailhead: Saddle Trail to
Lagoon Trail
Allowable Uses: Hiking
Distance: 1.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 1600 feet
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult;
long, steep climbs
Hiking Time: 2 hours (to treeline)
Camping:
No campsites at or near trailhead; no developed sites,
backcountry camping above
timberline. Alpine areas are
extremely
fragile;
please
practice no trace camping, no
campfires.
Lagoon
Trail
Treeline
Water Availability:
Limited water, no streams;
seasonal pools beyond trail
end. Use water purification
techniques for drinking water
to avoid contracting Giardiasis (beaver fever).
Park Rules: Visit http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/kbay/kbay.htm for a complete set of park rules.
Alaska State Parks, Kenai Area Office
PO Box 1247
Soldotna, AK
(907) 262 - 5581
Guide to
China Poot Lake Trail
in Kachemak Bay State Park
Trail Access: Halibut Cove Lagoon Trailhead;
protected anchorage with mooring buoys and
public dock
Allowable Uses: Hiking
Distance: 2.8 miles one way
Elevation Gain: 500 feet
Difficulty: Moderate; short, steep climbs
Hiking Time: 1.5 hours
China Poot
Lake
Halibut Cove Lagoon
Trail Description:
Camping:
This popular trail climbs through the forest and
over a low ridge, passing two small lakes where
loons are common and blueberries are plentiful
(August). The trail offers good views of Poot
Peak and meanders through a cottonwood
grove before arriving at China Poot Lake.
Developed campsites at Halibut Cove Lagoon Trailhead, and at
China Poot Lake Campsite. Public Use Cabin on China Poot
Lake (reservations required (907) 269-8400).
Park Access:
Kachemak Bay State Park is accessed via boat
from the Homer Harbor. Local water taxis can
provide transportation to most park trailheads.
Park Rules:
For a complete set of park rules visit:
ht tp: / /d nr. al a sk a. go v / par k s/ un it s /k ba y /
kbay.htm
Water Availability:
At trailhead; several small streams along trail; China Poot Lake;
Moose Valley Creek.
Special Features:
China Poot Lake offers good fishing. Pleasant day hike form
Halibut Cove Lagoon. Connects with many other trails in the
area including Wosnesenski River, Coalition Loop, Moose
Valley, and Poot Peak.
Alaska State Parks, Kenai Area Office
PO Box 1247
Soldotna, AK
(907) 262 - 5581
Guide to
Emerald Lake Loop &
Mallard Bay Trails
in Kachemak Bay State Park
Trail Access: Humpy Creek, Mallard Bay, or Glacier Spit
Trailheads
Allowable Uses: Hiking
Distance: Emerald Lake Loop: 12.6 mi
Mallard Bay Trail: 0.6 mi
Mallard/Emerald Connector: 1.1 mi
Elevation Gain: Emerald Lake Loop: 2800 ft;
Emerald/Mallard Connector: 500 ft
Mallard Bay: 200 ft in, 100 ft out
Difficulty: Emerald Lake Loop: Easy (flats) to Difficult
(long steep climbs); Mallard/Emerald Connector: Difficult;
Mallard Bay: Easy to Moderate (long switchbacks);
Emerald Lake: Moderate to Difficult
Hiking Time: Emerald Lake Loop: 5 hrs; Emerald/Mallard
Connector: 45 min; Mallard Bay: 30 min
Emerald Lake Loop Trail: This loop accesses beautiful
Emerald Lake and its alpine surroundings. Starting at
Humpy Creek Trailhead/Campsite, head South, crossing
Humpy Creek (known for its pink “humpy” salmon). Then
Mallard Bay Trail: This trail climbs over a ridge from the Mallard Bay Trailhead/
Campsite to the Portlock River.
cross a flat, mostly open, outwash plain before passing
Mallard/Emerald Connector Trail: This trail connects the Emerald Lake Loop
several blue ponds. The trail then threads a narrow rock
Trail with the Mallard Bay Trail. From the Mallard Bay Trail junction, the trail as-
“flume” where Grewingk Creek once flowed, past the cable
cends switchbacks to the Emerald Lake Trail junction.
tram that crosses Grewingk Creek. While camping is good
here, remember that black bears frequent the area. From
Grewingk Creek, the trail climbs over Foehn Ridge, offering
views of Grewingk Glacier and outwash flats. Descending
the ridge, the trail crosses flatlands to Grewingk Glacier
Lake. Look for glacier ice floating in the lake. From Grewingk
Lake the trail climbs up exposed rock, then along a lateral
moraine into the forest. A bridge then crosses Humpy Creek
before reaching treeline. A 0.2 mile spur leads to Emerald
Lake and campsite at a junction (a small stream may be
difficult to cross during spring melt). The trail then climbs to
Portlock Plateau where there are fantastic views of Kackemak Bay. Look for bears and mountain goats high on the
ridges. Alpine portions of the trail are marked with rock
cairns and white spars. The trail then descends a ridge
(follow cairns and spars carefully) into alders then a spruce
forest plagued by spruce bark beetles and wind storms. The
trail then descends past the Mallard/Emerald Connector
Trail junction to the tidewater flats of Kachemak Bay. Continue South along the tidewater flats (area floods at extreme
high tides) to return to Humpy Creek Trailhead/Campsite.
Camping:
Developed campsites at Humpy Creek, Grewingk Glacier Lake (undeveloped)
Emerald Lake, and Mallard Bay. Undeveloped camping on small beach north of the
Mallard Bay trailhead (extreme high-tides flood the trailhead beach)
Water Availability:
Humpy Creek, Grewingk Glacier Lake, Emerald Lake, Portlock River (glacial),
Grewingk Creek (glacial) & nearby ponds, and seasonally at Mallard Bay Trailhead
Special Features:
Humpy Creek offers good fishing and wildlife viewing. Emerald Lake is very remote
and scenic. ADVISORY: Black bears frequent the mouth of Humpy Creek during
the months of July and August, when salmon are spawning.
Park Access:
Kachemak Bay State Park is accessed via boat from the Homer Harbor. Local water
taxis can provide transportation to most park trailheads.
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
Guide to
Glacier Lake, Saddle, & Blue Ice Trails
in Kachemak Bay State Park
Trail Access: Glacier Spit, Saddle, or Humpy Creek
Allowable Uses: Hiking
Distance: 3.2 mi one-way (Glacier Lake Trail)
1.0 mi one way (Saddle Trail)
6.7 mi one-way (Glacier Spit to Blue Ice Trail end)
Elevation Gain: 200 ft (Glacier Lake Trail)
200 ft (Glacier Lake to Saddle Trailhead)
500 ft (Glacier Spit to Blue Ice Trail end)
Difficulty: Easy; family suitable (Glacier Lake Trail)
Moderate (Saddle Trail)
Moderate (Blue Ice Trail)
Hiking Time: 1.5 hours (to end Glacier Lake Trail)
30 minutes (Saddle Trail)
5 hours (Glacier Spit to Blue Ice Trail end)
Blue Ice Trail:
This is the only developed access to Grewingk
Glacier. The trail starts from mile 4.9 of the Emerald
Lake Loop Trail. It passes along the shoreline of
Grewingk Lake and follows a creek to Tarn Lake, a
small lake in the area recently uncovered by glacial
ice, and hence denuded of vegetation. The glacier
has retreated to leave a moraine in its wake. Hikers
can travel a short distance to the moraine and look
down on the glacier, or explore newly exposed
rocky ridges to the south of this point.
Grewingk Tram Spur (1 mile, easy)
This spur connects Glacier
Lake Trail and Emerald Lake
Loop Trail. There is a handoperated cable car pulley
system
over
Grewingk
Creek. Operation requires
two people. Maximum capacity of the tram is 500
pounds. If only two people are crossing the
tram, one person should stay behind and assist in
pulling the other across. Two people in the tram
cart without assistance from others on the platform is difficult. Gloves are helpful in operating
the tram.
Glacier Lake & Saddle Trails:
A Popular route joins the Saddle and Glacier Lake
Trails. The Glacier Lake Trail follows flat terrain
through stands of cottonwoods & spruce, and
across the dry outwash plain of Grewingk Glacier. It
ends at the broad open beaches of Grewingk
Glacier Lake. This trail offers superb views of the
glacier and its surrounding peaks. Excellent dayhike. Most people get dropped off at the Glacier
Spit Trailhead, hike to the lake, hike the Saddle Trail,
and get picked up at the Saddle Trailhead. This is
also recommended because afternoon day breezes
complicate pick-ups at the Glacier Spit Trailhead.
Camping:
Glacier Spit, Grewingk Glacier Lake, Grewingk Creek,
Tarn Lake, Humpy Creek, Right Beach (accessible at
low tide from Glacier Spit)
Water Availability:
Grewingk Creek (glacial), Grewingk Glacier Lake
(glacial), small streams near glacier and on Saddle Tr.
Safety and Considerations:
CAUTION: Unless properly trained and outfitted for
glacier travel, do not climb on the ice or within the
caves. Hidden crevasses (cracks) are deadly perils.
Enjoy this natural wonder at a safe distance. Do not
attempt to ford Grewingk Creek, it is very swift and
cold! `
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
Guide to
Grace Ridge Trail
in Kachemak Bay State Park
Stunning views of Eldred Passage, Sadie Peak, Cook
Inlet volcanoes and beyond are available here.
Watch for mountain goats, black bears, golden and
bald eagles. To continue, follow the marked route
through the alders to the southeast, cross a saddle,
and climb the alpine ridgelines to the peak (3105
feet). There is good spring skiing in this area's
bowls. The alpine portions of this route are
unmarked, but it is easy to follow the "knife" ridges.
Descending into the alders again, the trail
switchbacks into the spruce forest, ending at Tutka
Bay.
Camping:
Developed and popular campsites at Kayak Beach;
less developed campsites at South Grace Trailhead
Trail Description:
The trail begins on left side of gravel beach at
Kayak Beach Campsite (an area once used as a
rock quarry). It follows an old road now densely
inhabited by alders, then begins climbing through
an old growth Sitka Spruce forest. Mile 1.4 offers
an excellent view of Sadie Knob. Huge spruce
trees dot the narrow ridge and the roar of hidden
waterfalls below can be heard. At mile 1.6, a creek
rushing along the trail offers a good water source
(before climbing to alpine areas). Climbing on
through sub-alpine alders and meadows to mile
2.9, an alpine knob (1745 feet) offers an excellent
destination for a half-day hike.
Trail Access: Marine Access; North access at
Kayak Beach Campsite (exposed site); a short
connector trail offers alternative anchorage
on Sadie Cove side of point); South access at
South Grace Trailhead with good anchorage
(across Tutka Bay from Sea Star Cove Public
Use Cabin).
Allowable Uses: Hiking
Distance: 8.9 miles one way
Elevation Gain: 3100 feet
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult (long climbs)
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Water Availability:
Seasonal stream at Kayak Beach, good stream near
mile 1.6, no water on ridge, seasonal creeks near
South Grace Trailhead.
Park Access:
Kayak
Beach
Kachemak Bay State Park is accessed via boat from
the Homer Harbor. Local water taxis can provide
transportation to most park trailheads.
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
South
Grace
Guide to
Moose Valley Trail
in Kachemak Bay State Park
Trail Access: North End - Mile 1.0 China
Poot Lake Trail ; South End - Mile 0.8 Poot
Peak South
Allowable Uses: Hiking
Distance: 6.7 miles one way
Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult (long
grades)
Hiking Time: 3-4 Hours
Park Access:
Trail Description:
Beginning at China Poot Lake Trail junction (mile
1.0), this trail passes along the shore of Two Loon
Lake, ascends through forested ridges and valleys,
and then opens into Moose Valley's cottonwood
meadows - alive with wildflowers and cow parsnip
in mid-summer. Be attentive - tall grasses can
obscure trail markers. Look for high waterfalls
beyond the log footbridge over Moose Valley
Creek and the gravel bar campsite (mile 1.6).
Watch for goats on mountain ridges. Trail turns
south, then switchbacks up the back of Poot Peak
and passes the subalpine "Garden" lakes. (Trail
here may be obscured by snow in early summer.)
Trail ends at intersection with Poot Peak Trail.
Kachemak Bay State Park is accessed via boat from the Homer
Harbor. Local water taxis can provide transportation to most park
trailheads.
Camping:
Good camping on creek gravel bars above the ridge near mile 1.2,
developed site at mile 1.6, subalpine meadows near Poot Peak.
Water Availability:
Two Loon Lake; Moose Valley Creek; small streams; Garden Lakes.
Special Features:
Trail traverses a variety of landscapes from Spruce/Cottonwood
forest to open meadows and alpine lakes. Lightly travelled trail
affords opportunities for solitude. Much wildlife; particularly Moose
and Bear. Historic cabin along trail depicts areas history.
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
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
Guide to
Sadie Knob Trail
Trail Access: North Eldred - North end of beach,
Sadie
Knob
Trail
Sadie
Knob
Trail
Sadie
Knob
Trail
North of Anisom Point; South Eldred - North of Sadie
1000
1000
Cove Inlet, north of small islands. Please respect pri-
800
800
800
Allowable Uses: Hiking
Distance: 1.6 mi North Eldred to Spur Trail; 1.9 mi
1000
Elevation
(feet)
Elevation(feet)
(feet)
Elevation
vate properties South of these two trailheads.
in Kachemak Bay State Park
600
600
600
400
400
400
North
Eldred
South
Eldred
Spur Trail Jct.
200
200
200
0
00 0
00
South Eldred to Spur Trail; 2.6 mi Spur Trail to Sadie
1
11
2
3
2
33
2
Distance (miles)
Distance
Distance(miles)
(miles)
Knob
Elevation Gain: 2,200 feet from sea level
Sadie
Knob
Spur
Trail
Sadie
Knob
Sadie
Knob
SpurSpur
Trail Trail
trail.
Trail Description:
Sadie Knob Trail accesses an alpine ridge between
Sadie Cove and Kachemak Bay. The North and the
South Routes connect the North and South ends of
Eldred Passage; both join the Spur Trail at Quiet
Creek. The Spur Trail climbs through spruce forest,
flowery meadows and along a subalpine lake.
Emerging above timberline, and marked only with
rock cairns or orange trail markers, the trail follows
the ridgeline to Sadie Knob (2100 feet). From Sadie
Knob, hikers gain superb and expansive 360
degree views of Kachemak Bay, Sadie Peak, Sadie
Cove, Eldred Passage and Cook Inlet volcanoes.
Watch for mountain goats, black bears and eagles.
2500
2500
2500
Elevation (meters)
Hiking Time: 3hrs for Sadie Knob; 2hrs for spur
Elevation(meters)
(meters)
Elevation
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult (long climbs)
2000
2000
2000
Sadie Knob Jct.
1500
1500
1500
Sadie Knob
1000
1000
1000
500
500
500
0
00
0.5
0.5
0.5
1
1.5
2
11
1.5
1.5
22
Distance (miles)
2.5
2.5
2.5
Distance
Distance(miles)
(miles)
Caution: Vertical cliffs and rugged country!
Clouds often shroud the Sadie Knob, Emerald Lake
and Grace Ridge areas, limiting visibility to under 50
feet. Trail "treads" do not exist in alpine areas,
markers may not be visible, one to the next, and
topography can be extremely confusing. Hikers may
stray down wrong ridgelines, losing direction and
trails. Often by waiting a short while, clouds will lift,
offering glimpses of trail markers.
Camping:
Developed Campsites at North and South Eldred
Trailheads, Undeveloped camping opportunities in
alpine areas, no open fires.
Water Availability:
Seasonal creeks at both trailheads, Quiet Creek
(where all trails intersect)
`
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
Guide to
in Kachemak Bay State Park
Trail Description:
Safety and Considerations:
Be prepared for emergencies, carry a satellite phone, and file a trip
plan with a friend. Use water purification techniques for drinking
water to avoid contracting Giardiasis (beaver fever).
Camping:
China Poot Lake Campsite, Wosnesenski River gravel bars, Haystack
Trailhead beach area.
Park Rules:
Visit http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/kbay/kbay.htm for a complete
set of park rules.
Park Access:
Kachemak Bay State Park is accessed via boat from the Homer Harbor. Local water taxis can provide transportation to park trailheads.
The trail begins along the Poot Peak Trail,
about 10 minutes from the bridge at
China Poot Lake. From here, it winds
pleasantly through forests, meadows and
bogs, along the shores of three lakes. It
then climbs a low ridge and drops into
the Wosnesenski River Valley. Heading
west from the expansive gravel bars of
the river here, the trail climbs over a ridge
and continues along the river, winding in
and out of groves of large cottonwoods.
A spectacular 600 foot waterfall is visible
from several miles across the valley. After
passing power lines, the trail intersects
with a small utility access road. Turn right
(north) and follow the road to Haystack
Trailhead. If starting from the Haystack
bulletin board, an orange triangle seen
across the flats to the southeast marks
the trail. The Wosnesenski River is a
typical glacial river, braided with gravel
flats on either side, a highly scenic area
with sweeping vistas of mountains and
glaciers to the south. Note: Tidal flats at
Haystack Trailhead flood at 16+ foot
tides.
Water Availability:
Access: China Poot Lake Campsite (China Poot
Lake Trail); Marine access (tide dependent) at Haystack Trailhead
Allowable Uses: Hiking
Distance: 11.3 miles one way
Elevation Gain: 900 ft
Difficulty: Easy (along river flats) to Moderate
(long switchbacks)
Hiking Time: 10 hours from Haystack Trailhead to China Poot Lake
Wosnesenski
WosnesenskiRiver
RiverTrail
Trail
Elevation(Feet)
(Feet)
Elevation
Wosnesenski River Trail
700
700
600
600
500
500
400
400
300
300
200
200
100
100
00
Haystack TH
00
11
22
33
China Poot Lake
44
55
66
77
Distance
Distance(miles)
(miles)
Wosnesenski River (glacial), China Poot
Lake, Moose Valley Creek, Stonehocker
Creek
Alaska State Parks, Kenai Area Office
PO Box 1247
Soldotna, AK
(907) 262 - 5581
88
99
10
10 11
11
12
12
Photo courtesy of Bill Berkhahn
Wood-Tikchik State Park
Photo courtesy of Wayne Biessel
Photo courtesy of Nicole Acevedo
Photo courtesy of Mary Kowalczyk
Background photo courtesy of Donna Olson
Independence Mine State Historical Park
Fort Rousseau State Historical Park
Totem Bight State Historical Park
Wildlife Viewing
Independence Mine State Historical Park
Photo courtesy of Wanda Scholze
Fort Abercrombie State Historical Park
Brown bear, Chugach State Park
Trails
Whale Watching
Photo courtesy of Dan Kehlenbach
Background photo, Wood-Tikchik State Park
Alaska State Parks boasts an unrivaled multiuse trail system. Trails range from paved, ADA
accessible paths to challenging mountain
scrambles. Explore the map inside or visit us
online at www.alaskastatetrails.org to view
interactive maps and download printable guides.
Photo courtesy of Justin Wholey
Crow Pass Trail, Chugach State Park
Swimming
Snowshoeing
Photo courtesy of Kyle Joly
Chena River State Recreation Area
Snowmachining
Skiing
Photo courtesy of Wayde Carroll
Petroglyph Beach State Historic Site
Wickersham State Historic Site
Photo courtesy of Donna Quante
Willow Creek State Recreation Area
Running
Photo courtesy of Kyle Joly
Wood-Tikchik State Park
Relaxing
Alaska State Parks offers
Shelter Island State Marine Park
more than 80 public-use
cabins for rent year-round. These coveted cabins are
booked months in advance, so make your reservation
today! For more information visit
http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/cabins/index.htm.
Photo courtesy of Andre Kaeppele
Kachemak Bay State Park
Pack Rafting
Historic preservation is embedded in the Alaska
State Parks’ mission statement. Our uniquely
Alaskan State Historical Parks (SHP) and State
Historic Sites (SHS) represent several eras of
Alaska’s history and are as diverse as the places
in which they reside: tour a hard-rock gold
mining camp at Independence Mine SHP in
Palmer; explore a WW II Army artillery base at
Fort Abercrombie SHP in Kodiak; or view Tlingit
and Haida designs on the totem poles and the
clan house at Totem Bight SHP in Ketchikan.
Rupe Andrews Cabin,
Picnicking
Public-Use Cabins
Eklutna Lakeside Trail, Chugach State Park
Photography
Big Delta State
Historical Park
Johnson Lake State Recreation Area
Birch Lake State Recreation Site
Paragliding
Pitch a tent in the backcountry or slide your RV
into a drive-in slip. With over 2,500 campsites and
limitless backcountry settings, there is no shortage
of camping options in Alaska State Parks. Explore the
map inside for a list of developed campgrounds.
Orienteering
History & Culture
Camping
For More Information:
Visit us online at
Alaska is big, wild, and scenic,
www.alaskastateparks.org
with a state park system to match. Encompassing
Area Offices
over 3.3 million acres of rugged, unspoiled terrain,
Chugach State Park
Potter Section House
18620 Seward Hwy.
Anchorage, AK 99516
(907) 345-5014
the Alaska State Park System provides endless
recreational opportunities year-round, and is a
priceless resource for residents and visitors alike.
Northern
3700 Airport Way
Fairbanks, AK 99709
(907) 451-2695
Kenai/PWS
P.O. Box 1247
Soldotna, AK 99669
(907) 262-5581
Southeast
400 Willoughby Ave.
P.O. Box 111070
Juneau, AK 99811
(907) 465-2481
Kodiak District
1400 Abercrombie Dr.
Kodiak, AK 99615
(907) 486-6339
Wood-Tikchik State Park
P.O. Box 1822
Dillingham, AK 99576
(907) 842-2641
Mat-Su/Copper Basin
7278 E. Bogard Road
Wasilla, AK 99654
(907) 745-3975
DNR Public Information
Centers
Anchorage: (907) 269-8400
Fairbanks: (907) 451-2705
Welcome to
Alaska
State Parks
ATVing
Backpacking
Recreation
From high alpine tundra to
temperate rainforests, the
state’s diverse landscapes
are reflected in the parks,
historic sites, recreation
areas, trails, preserves, and
special management areas
that comprise the Alaska
State Park System—a
collection of 157 units
Wood-Tikchik State Park
Photo courtesy of Bill Berkhahn
ranging in size from the
half-acre Potter Section
House State Historic Site to the 1.6-million-acre
Wood-Tikchik State Park.
Beachcombing
Berry Picking
Biking
Bird Watching
Denali State Park
Photo courtesy of Erik Schlimmer
Camping
Canoeing
Recreational opportunities are equally varied:
hike through fields of lupine; pick blueberries
under the midnight sun; snowmachine in Denali
country; observe a pod of orcas from your sea
kayak; or fish the world-famous Kenai River.
Clamming
Alaska State Park units are an essential
component of the Alaskan lifestyle, with locals
participating in wilderness recreation at a rate
twice that of the national average. Alaskans
make up over two-thirds of the 5.4 million
annual visitors to our parks. Outdoors is “where
it’s at” in the last frontier, and with a square
mile of land for every resident, we have plenty
of room for you to find your Alaska!
Dog Mushing
Climbing
Exploring
Fishing
Hiking
Horseback Riding
The Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation provides outdoor