Lake Louise State Recreation Area

Overview

Lake Louise State Recreation Area is a hidden gem located in the heart of Alaska, offering a unique blend of stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and exciting outdoor activities. This picturesque campground is situated on the shores of Lake Louise, a pristine lake surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests. The area is known for its breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, and its proximity to several hiking trails, fishing spots, and wildlife viewing areas makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

The campground is surrounded by a mix of aspen, birch, and spruce trees, providing a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The lake itself is home to a variety of fish species, including trout, grayling, and whitefish, making it a popular spot for anglers. The surrounding mountains offer endless opportunities for hiking, backpacking, and exploring, with trails ranging from easy day hikes to more challenging multi-day treks.

Location & Directions

Lake Louise State Recreation Area is located at 61.0333° N, 146.5333° W, approximately 15 miles north of the town of Glennallen, Alaska. The campground can be accessed from the Glenn Highway, at mile marker 159. From Glennallen, take the Glenn Highway north for 15 miles, then turn left onto Lake Louise Road. The campground is located at the end of the road, approximately 2 miles from the highway.

Driving directions from Anchorage: Take the Glenn Highway north from Anchorage for approximately 180 miles, then turn left onto Lake Louise Road. The driving distance from Anchorage is approximately 200 miles, and the drive typically takes around 3-4 hours, depending on road conditions. The road to the campground is paved and well-maintained, but be aware that it can be narrow and winding in some areas.

Campground Details

The Lake Louise State Recreation Area campground has 83 campsites, including 50 RV sites, 20 tent sites, and 13 walk-in sites. The RV sites have electric hookups, and the maximum RV length is 40 feet. The campground also has a dump station and potable water available.

The current fees for the campground are $20 per night for RV sites, $15 per night for tent sites, and $10 per night for walk-in sites. Reservations can be made through reserveamerica.com, but be aware that the campground is first-come, first-served during the off-season. Check-in time is 1 pm, and check-out time is 12 pm. The campground is open from May 15 to September 15, but the exact dates may vary depending on weather conditions.

It’s worth noting that the campground has a 14-day stay limit, and generators are only allowed in designated areas. Be sure to check with the campground host or park ranger for up-to-date information on any specific rules or regulations.

Facilities & Amenities

The Lake Louise State Recreation Area campground has a range of facilities and amenities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. The campground has potable water available at the dump station, as well as hand pump water at various locations throughout the campground. The restrooms are equipped with flush toilets, and there are also vault toilets available in some areas.

Each campsite has a fire ring and picnic table, and bear boxes are available for food storage. The campground also has a boat launch, making it easy to access the lake for fishing or boating. Firewood is available for purchase from the campground host, but be aware that there may be fire restrictions in place during certain times of the year.

The campground also has a day-use area with picnic tables, a playground, and a fishing dock. The day-use area is open from 6 am to 10 pm, and there is a fee of $5 per vehicle for day-use parking.

Hiking & Activities Nearby

Lake Louise State Recreation Area is surrounded by a range of hiking trails, offering something for every level of experience and interest. The Lake Louise Trail is a 2-mile loop that takes you around the lake, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and access to several fishing spots. The Caribou Creek Trail is a 4-mile out-and-back trail that takes you through a scenic valley and offers opportunities to see wildlife such as moose, caribou, and bears.

The area is also popular for boating and fishing, with several species of fish available in the lake, including trout, grayling, and whitefish. Berry picking is also a popular activity in the area, with several species of berries available, including blueberries, raspberries, and salmonberries. Wildlife viewing is also a major draw, with opportunities to see moose, caribou, bears, and eagles.

Lake Louise Trail: 2-mile loop
Caribou Creek Trail: 4-mile out-and-back
Boating and fishing on Lake Louise
Berry picking: blueberries, raspberries, salmonberries
Wildlife viewing: moose, caribou, bears, eagles

Fishing Opportunities

Lake Louise is home to a variety of fish species, including trout, grayling, and whitefish. The lake is stocked annually with rainbow trout, and there are also opportunities to catch lake trout and grayling. The best fishing spots are typically found in the early morning and evening hours, when the fish are most active.

The nearby Caribou Creek is also home to a variety of fish species, including trout, grayling, and salmon. The creek is a popular spot for fly fishing, and the best times to fish are typically during the summer months when the water is at its warmest.

Be sure to check with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game for up-to-date information on fishing regulations and any specific restrictions that may be in place. A valid Alaska fishing license is required, and there are also restrictions on the types of gear and bait that can be used.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Lake Louise State Recreation Area is during the summer months, from May to September. The weather is typically warm and sunny, with average highs in the mid-70s to mid-80s (°F). The peak tourist season is during July and August, when the days are longest and the weather is warmest.

However, be aware that the summer months are also the peak mosquito season, and the insects can be quite aggressive. Be sure to bring plenty of bug spray and take other precautions to protect yourself from the mosquitoes.

The shoulder season, from May to June and September to October, can be a great time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds and cooler weather. The fall colors are also particularly stunning during this time, with the aspens and birches turning a vibrant yellow and orange.

Wildlife & Bear Safety

Lake Louise State Recreation Area is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, moose, caribou, and eagles. Be sure to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your food from the wildlife, particularly the bears.

Brown bears are common in the area, and can be found in the surrounding mountains and forests. Black bears are also present, although they are less common. Be sure to store your food and trash properly, using bear-proof containers or hanging them from a tree at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet out from the trunk.

It’s also a good idea to carry bear spray with you when hiking or walking in the area, and to know how to use it properly. Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising bears, and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

In the event of a bear encounter, remain calm and speak in a calm, assertive voice. Give the bear a clear path to leave, and do not run. If a bear approaches, use bear spray or other deterrents as a last resort.

What to Bring

When visiting Lake Louise State Recreation Area, be sure to bring the following essentials:

Camping gear: tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, etc.
Clothing: layers for cool weather, rain gear, warm hat and gloves
Footwear: sturdy hiking boots, water shoes
Food and cooking gear: camp stove, fuel, pots and pans, utensils, etc.
Water and water treatment: water filter, purification tablets, etc.
First aid kit: bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.
Bear spray and other safety gear: bear-resistant containers, etc.
Map and compass: and/or GPS device
Headlamp and extra batteries
Trash bags and a small shovel for waste disposal

Be sure to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. It’s also a good idea to bring a small daypack with essentials such as water, snacks, and a first aid kit in case of emergencies.

Nearby Attractions & Towns

The nearest town to Lake Louise State Recreation Area is Glennallen, which is approximately 15 miles south of the campground. Glennallen has a range of amenities, including gas stations, restaurants, and grocery stores.

Other nearby attractions include the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, which is the largest national park in the United States. The park offers a range of hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

The Copper River Valley is also nearby, which is known for its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. The valley is home to a range of hiking trails, including the Copper River Trail, which takes you through a scenic valley and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Glennallen: gas stations, restaurants, grocery stores
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve: hiking trails, scenic drives, wildlife viewing
Copper River Valley: hiking trails, scenic drives, wildlife viewing
Copper River Trail: 10-mile out-and-back trail

Tips from Experienced Campers

Here are a few tips from experienced campers to help you make the most of your trip to Lake Louise State Recreation Area:

Be sure to reserve your campsite in advance, particularly during peak season.
Bring plenty of bug spray and take other precautions to protect yourself from the mosquitoes.
Be aware of your surroundings at all times, and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your food from the wildlife.
Bring a small daypack with essentials such as water, snacks, and a first aid kit in case of emergencies.
Take advantage of the scenic hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities in the area.
Be respectful of other campers and the environment, and follow all rules and regulations.

Cell service is limited in the area, so be sure to plan ahead and make any necessary calls or send any important messages before arriving at the campground. The campground host and park ranger are also available to provide information and assistance as needed.

In terms of noise considerations, be aware that the campground is located in a quiet, natural area, and excessive noise can disturb other campers and the wildlife. Be respectful of others and keep noise levels to a minimum, particularly after 10 pm.

Finally, be sure to take advantage of the stunning sunrises and sunsets in the area, which are truly unforgettable. The best times to view the sunrise and sunset are typically during the summer months, when the days are longest and the weather is warmest.