Horseshoe Lake Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Lake · Views · Wildlife

The journey to Horseshoe Lake is a relatively popular one within the park, but considering the fact that most people enjoy Denali from the bus without ever stepping onto a trail, the "crowds" on this trail rarely exceed what you can count on two hands.

Nonetheless, this trail provides visitors who do choose to run the perfect excuse to get out of the car after a long day's drive, stretch their legs, and, hopefully, experience some of the stunning wildlife for which Denali National Park and Preserve is known.

Starting at the Horseshoe Lake Trail Parking Area, follow the trail north through beautiful boreal forests to the lakeshore. While at the lake, keep your eyes peeled for full-racked bull moose as this can be a popular spot for them to cool off in the summertime.

After enjoying the lake, simply return the way you came to reach the parking area.

This content was contributed by author Ike Waits. For a comprehensive running guide to Denali National Park and to see more by Ike, click here.

Moose and beaver are known to frequent this area. Bring your camera!