Lower Reed Lake Trail is a 6.5 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Palmer, Alaska that features a lake and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking and bird watching and is best used from May until October. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Beautiful views and fun hike. It was very muddy and slippery though. I think it would be more enjoyable on a clear day, without showers the day before but you can’t pick the weather. I thought crossing the bolder field was sketchy, my husband loved it, so some of it has to do with personal preference.
This is a beautiful hike and be prepared for crossing boulders. We met a lot of great people along the way and had a fantastic day. A couple of people jumped into the lake, and dove in head first, which was fun to watch! Go on a sunny day if you can and bring water. You will not be disappointed.
Road is closed.. but now I assume why. We tried to get to Lower Reed Lake and the boulders are still pretty covered in snow. There was no clear path around them or a safe path on them because we kept falling through since you do not know what you are standing on. I had two dogs and they probably could have done it if there was no snow but they were not having it. It was very technical and hard. I would recommend waiting a few more weeks.
The trail was beautiful when we went. Easy to follow, even the boulder field was good. We crossed the water and stayed to the left on the way up. It seemed longer than what it actually is but that’s probably because we had three young kids with us (7,4, and 2). Spectacular views and definite one of my fav trails!
Great hike, I am an easy trail hiker and this pushed my limits, but wow was it worth it! Beautiful views and the lake is gorgeous! Ever got to witness a rock slide up on top of one of the mountain peaks across the valley! The boulder fields are not easy and you have to be careful and map out your route (follow the dirty rocks, they are the most traveled!! We had a beautiful day so it only enhanced the experience!!
Hiked July 5, 2019. Absolutely beautiful hike after you get through the initial woody part. The trail climbs and opens up into a beautiful, green valley with a river running through it. Beaver ponds are available stops. The first boulder field wasn't so bad but the next ones were tough for me because I have a fear of heights/falling. Water shoes helped a lot. Bring good sun protection and water filtration. There are several spots along the trail where you can make a short detour for some running water. I still filtered mine. It gets hot in the sun and the summer mosquitoes are brutal. Poles helped a lot.
Best hike so far in this beautiful state! The first 2 mi are easy, then you start up the switchbacks, which aren’t too bad. Once you’re over the switchbacks, it’s time to scramble and jump across rocks over the water. This can be tricky, so pay attention to the rock coloring: the ones that are well treaded on (and likely the best path) are the ones with slightly tan tops. It’s quite rewarding at the end and yesterday there was still a bit of snow :)
Great trail for family. Pretty wide trail. Passed a few beaver ponds and their huts. In general we did not run into not see wildlife. Follows the river. Some spots on the trail are washed out. So have waterproof or good hiking boots/shoes to get through some mud and water.