Petersburg Lake Trail

When you hike the Petersburg Lake Trail in Alaska's Tongass National Forest, you'll be traveling through some of Alaska's most breathtaking wilderness. This passageway to Petersburg Lake Cabin includes sections of boardwalk and natural-surface footpaths through the brushy forest. Parts of the route aren't well-maintained, so be prepared for challenging conditions. 

To get to the trailhead, you'll need to take a boat across the narrows from Petersburg to the City Dock on Kupreanof Island. Head west from here, following an old road for a short distance before you climb some steps and cross a hill to reach Petersburg Creek. Follow the water to the high tide trailhead, which is the entry point for the wilderness area. 

From here, the trail is sketchy. Because of the changing creek conditions, some of the markers can be hard to locate. Pack a compass and map to help you navigate. You'll travel over some boardwalk sections and through heavily wooded land as you walk parallel with the stream on your way to the lake. There's a Forest Service cabin and a rowboat by Petersburg Lake. If no one is renting the cabin, you can use the boat to spend some time on the water before starting your return trip.

Dogs are allowed in Tongass National Forest. The Forest Service requires that they be secure on a lead. Carry enough water for you and your furry friend when you come here. You'll also need to bring bags to collect and pack out any waste.

You and your special pal can go exploring in the unfurgettable Alaskan wilderness on the Petersburg Lake Trail. This pathway leads from the City Dock at Bayou Point north and west to Petersburg Lake. Hike over boardwalk and dirt pathways alongside the creek to reach your destination. For your safety, let people know about your travel plans and consider coming here with a group of people.