Auke Lake Park
A scenic Juneau park offering tranquil lake trails, adventurous Auke Bay kayaking, and a fun pitch and putt golf course.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Auke Lake Park
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic Juneau park offering tranquil lake trails, adventurous Auke Bay kayaking, and a fun pitch and putt golf course.
"A perfect blend of serene nature and outdoor recreation in Juneau."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails around Auke Lake are well-maintained but can be uneven. Good walking shoes are essential for exploring.
🧥 Pack Layers
Juneau's weather is unpredictable. Be prepared for sun, rain, and wind, even on the same day.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Auke Lake Trail
Around Auke Lake
A serene loop offering beautiful lake views and a peaceful escape into nature. Perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Auke Bay Kayaking
Auke Bay
Paddle through the calm waters of Auke Bay, spotting marine life and enjoying stunning coastal scenery.

Pitch and Putt Golf
Auke Lake Park
A fun, casual 9-hole pitch and putt course for a relaxed afternoon of friendly competition.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors
Plan for Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails around Auke Lake are well-maintained but can be uneven. Good walking shoes are essential for exploring.
🧥 Pack Layers
Juneau's weather is unpredictable. Be prepared for sun, rain, and wind, even on the same day.
🛶 Book Kayaking Early
Popular kayaking tours in Auke Bay fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season.
📸 Capture the Views
The lake and bay offer stunning photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera or phone!
Looking for this exact location
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails around Auke Lake are well-maintained but can be uneven. Good walking shoes are essential for exploring.
🧥 Pack Layers
Juneau's weather is unpredictable. Be prepared for sun, rain, and wind, even on the same day.
🛶 Book Kayaking Early
Popular kayaking tours in Auke Bay fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season.
📸 Capture the Views
The lake and bay offer stunning photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera or phone!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Auke Lake Park's natural beauty and diverse activities, from peaceful lakeside strolls to adventurous kayaking. The pitch and putt course adds a fun, casual element. While generally well-loved, some note that weather can be a factor, and booking popular tours in advance is crucial.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Auke Lake Park is located about 15 miles north of downtown Juneau. You can drive your own vehicle, take a taxi, or use ride-sharing services. The drive typically takes around 20-30 minutes.
While direct public bus routes might be limited, you can check the Juneau Access public transportation schedule for routes that get you close, and then potentially walk or take a short taxi ride.
Yes, there is ample parking available at Auke Lake Park, including areas near the lake trailheads and the Auke Bay launch points.
Biking is a great option if you enjoy cycling. The roads leading to Auke Lake Park are generally well-maintained, offering scenic views along the way.
Auke Bay has several access points, including a public boat launch and areas designated for kayak rentals and tours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Auke Lake Park is generally a public access area, and there is no entrance fee to enjoy the trails and scenery.
If you plan to join a guided kayaking tour, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during the summer months.
Fishing and boating regulations may apply. It's advisable to check with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game for any necessary permits or licenses.
The pitch and putt course typically operates during daylight hours throughout the summer season. It's best to check locally for specific opening and closing times.
While the park itself doesn't typically rent equipment, there are often nearby outfitters that offer kayak rentals and other outdoor gear.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You might spot various bird species, seals in Auke Bay, and if you're lucky, even whales offshore. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna.
Restroom facilities are usually available at designated areas within Auke Lake Park, particularly near popular access points.
Yes, the Auke Lake trail is relatively flat and easy, making it suitable for families. The pitch and putt is also a fun activity for kids.
The shores of Auke Lake, the viewpoints overlooking Auke Bay, and the surrounding Tongass National Forest offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
Picnicking is a popular activity. There are often designated picnic areas, or you can find a scenic spot along the lake or bay.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes of the lake and bay. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting.
The trail around Auke Lake provides numerous scenic overlooks. The viewpoints along the coast of Auke Bay are also spectacular.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas or require permits. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Many visitors aim to capture the serene beauty of Auke Lake itself, or the dramatic coastal vistas of Auke Bay.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as amenities can be spread out. The open spaces around the lake and bay are perfect for kids to run around and explore. Kayaking tours in Auke Bay can also be adapted for families, with some operators offering tandem kayaks or shorter, more sheltered routes.
🚶♀️ Active Explorers
If you enjoy a bit of friendly competition, the Pitch and Putt is a fun way to spend an afternoon. For more challenging hikes, explore nearby trails in the Tongass National Forest, which are accessible from the general vicinity of Auke Lake Park.
📸 Photographers
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive landscapes and a telephoto lens for potential wildlife sightings. The changing light throughout the day can transform the scenery, so consider visiting at different times to capture various moods.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Auke Lake Trail
Many visitors appreciate the tranquility of this trail, finding it a perfect spot for reflection or a family outing. The path provides a great introduction to the natural beauty of the Juneau area without requiring strenuous hiking. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as some sections might be a bit uneven.
Best Spots on the Trail
Look for benches and clearings along the path that offer unobstructed views of the lake. These spots are ideal for pausing, taking photos, or simply enjoying the serene atmosphere. The trail is also a popular place for photography, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
Adventures on Auke Bay
Beyond kayaking, Auke Bay is also a launch point for fishing charters and boat tours. The bay's sheltered nature makes it a relatively safe place for water sports, even for beginners. The scenic beauty of the surrounding mountains and the vastness of the ocean create a breathtaking backdrop for any aquatic adventure.
Planning Your Auke Bay Excursion
It's highly recommended to book any guided tours or rentals in advance, especially during the peak summer season, as they can fill up quickly. Consider the weather conditions when planning your trip; while the bay is often calm, Alaskan weather can change rapidly.
Fun at the Pitch and Putt
Many visitors find the pitch and putt to be a charming and enjoyable amenity within the park. It's a place where you can test your putting skills in a beautiful natural setting. The course is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all skill levels, making it a popular choice for a casual outing.
Tips for Pitch and Putt Fun
Bring your own clubs and balls if you have them, though rentals might be available. The course is best enjoyed on a clear, sunny day. It's a great spot for some friendly competition and laughs.
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