19 Lake/ River/ Ponds to Explore in Anchorage

Checkout places to visit in Anchorage

Anchorage

Anchorage Borough, Alaska, is a diverse and captivating destination for tourists, offering a wide range of experiences that showcase the state's stunning natural beauty and cultural richness. Anchorage is surrounded by breathtaking natural wonders, including the Chugach Mountains, Cook Inlet, and numerous glaciers. The proximity of these natural attractions makes it an ideal base for exploring Alaska's wilderness.

Activities Around

Lake/ River/ Ponds to Explore in Anchorage

Campbell Lake

Campbell Lake is a scenic freshwater lake located in Anchorage, Alaska. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and residents seeking recreational activities and natural beauty. It is situated in the southwestern part of Anchorage, making it easily accessible to both residents and visitors to the city. The lake covers approximately 139 acres, offering ample space for various water-based activities.

Eagle River Nature Center

The Eagle River Nature Center, located in Chugach State Park just outside Anchorage, Alaska, is a natural oasis and educational facility that offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Alaskan wilderness. The center is nestled within the scenic Chugach Mountains, offering visitors a chance to experience Alaska's pristine wilderness up close. The surrounding landscapes include forests, rivers, mountains, and diverse ecosystems.

Eklutna Glacier

Eklutna Glacier is a prominent glacier located in the Chugach Mountains of Alaska, not far from Anchorage. Eklutna Glacier is situated in Chugach State Park, approximately 40 miles northeast of downtown Anchorage. The glacier is easily accessible by car, making it a popular destination for day trips and outdoor adventures.

Eklutna Lake

Eklutna Lake, located near Anchorage, Alaska, is a picturesque and serene destination known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and cultural significance.Eklutna Lake is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, surrounded by the majestic Chugach Mountains. The crystal-clear waters of the lake reflect the snow-capped peaks, creating a stunning backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.

Goose Lake

Goose Lake is a scenic freshwater lake located in Anchorage, Alaska. It is a popular outdoor recreation area and a serene urban oasis. It is situated in the city of Anchorage, making it easily accessible to both residents and visitors.The lake covers approximately 26 acres, making it a relatively small but picturesque body of water.

Jewel Lake

Jewel Lake is a picturesque suburban neighborhood located in the western part of Anchorage, Alaska. Known for its natural beauty and family-friendly atmosphere, Jewel Lake is a well-established residential community that offers a tranquil and scenic environment while still providing easy access to the amenities and services of Anchorage.

Jewel Lake Park

Jewel Lake Park is a popular community park located in Anchorage, Alaska. It is situated in the western part of Anchorage, making it accessible to residents and visitors in that area. It's part of the larger Jewel Lake neighborhood. The park offers a variety of recreational amenities and features, catering to a diverse range of outdoor activities.

Knik Glacier

Knik Glacier is a massive glacier located near Anchorage, Alaska, and it's one of the iconic natural attractions in the region. Knik Glacier is situated approximately 50 miles northeast of downtown Anchorage, making it a popular destination for day trips or longer excursions. It is one of the largest glaciers in Southcentral Alaska, covering an extensive area of over 25 miles long and about 5 miles wide.

Lake George

Lake George, also known as George M. Sullivan Lake, is a picturesque freshwater lake located in the heart of Anchorage. It is a popular outdoor recreation area and a serene urban oasis. It is situated in the city of Anchorage, making it easily accessible to both residents and visitors.The primary attraction of Lake George is its natural beauty. Surrounded by trees and parkland, the lake offers a peaceful escape from the urban surroundings.

Lake Spenard

Lake Spenard is a large freshwater lake located in the city of Anchorage, Alaska. It is one of the most popular lakes in the area for outdoor recreation and water-related activities. Lake Spenard is situated in the heart of Anchorage, making it easily accessible to both residents and visitors. Itis one of the larger lakes in the Anchorage area, covering approximately 330 acres.

Placer River

Placer River is a picturesque river located in the Anchorage area of Alaska. It offers a variety of recreational opportunities and natural beauty. It is located in the Chugach National Forest, approximately 60 miles south of Anchorage. It is easily accessible by car from Anchorage, making it a popular destination for day trips and outdoor activities.

Portage Glacier

Portage Glacier, located near Anchorage, Alaska, is a stunning natural attraction within the Chugach National Forest. It's renowned for its awe-inspiring glacier and surrounding landscapes. The primary draw of Portage Glacier is the opportunity to witness a glacier up close. Visitors can admire the massive expanse of ice, its striking blue hues, and the ever-changing patterns of the glacier.

Portage Lake

Portage Lake is a stunning glacial lake located in the Chugach National Forest, not far from Anchorage, Alaska. Nestled amidst the breathtaking Chugach Mountains, this pristine lake offers visitors a serene and picturesque escape into the heart of Alaska's natural beauty. Portage Lake is located approximately 50 miles southeast of downtown Anchorage, making it easily accessible for both residents and tourists seeking a day trip to explore the scenic wonders of Alaska.

Rabbit Lake

Rabbit Lake is a pristine mountain lake located in the Chugach State Park near Anchorage, Alaska. Known for its serene beauty and accessibility, it's a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a day of natural splendor. Rabbit Lake is situated within Chugach State Park, approximately 25 miles east of downtown Anchorage. Its relative proximity to the city makes it a convenient escape into nature.

Ship Creek, Alaska

Ship Creek, located in Anchorage, Alaska, is a significant waterway that plays various roles in the region, from fishing to recreational activities. Ship Creek is known as a prime fishing destination, particularly for salmon. It offers opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers to catch various salmon species, including king salmon (Chinook), silver salmon (coho), and pink salmon (humpy).

Sixmile Creek

Sixmile Creek is a renowned and challenging whitewater rafting destination located in the vicinity of Anchorage, Alaska. This creek is known for its exhilarating rapids, scenic beauty, and outdoor adventure opportunities. Sixmile Creek is situated about 60 miles south of Anchorage, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and thrill-seekers seeking a day of whitewater rafting adventure.

Surprise Glacier

Surprise Glacier is not located in Anchorage but is a notable glacier in the Prince William Sound region of Alaska. It's important to clarify that Surprise Glacier is not in close proximity to Anchorage; however, it is a stunning natural attraction in the broader state of Alaska.It is situated in the Prince William Sound, which is approximately 100 miles southeast of Anchorage. Access to the glacier is typically via boat or kayak from the town of Whittier or other nearby communities.

Symphony Lake

Symphony Lake is a picturesque alpine lake located in Chugach State Park, not far from Anchorage, Alaska. It is a popular hiking destination known for its stunning mountainous surroundings and serene beauty. Symphony Lake is situated in Chugach State Park, approximately 45 miles east of downtown Anchorage. Its accessibility from the city makes it a favored destination for day hikes and outdoor enthusiasts.

Williwaw Lakes

Williwaw Lakes is a scenic alpine destination located in Chugach State Park. It is a popular hiking and backpacking area that offers visitors the opportunity to explore pristine alpine lakes and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding wilderness. Williwaw Lakes is situated in Chugach State Park, approximately 20 miles east of downtown Anchorage. Its proximity to the city makes it a convenient destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a day hike or a multi-day backpacking trip.

Map of Lake/ River/ Ponds to explore in Anchorage