Perseverance Lake Trail
A scenic, moderate hike near Ketchikan, Alaska, leading to a beautiful alpine lake through lush forests and over charming boardwalks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, vibrant greenery
Perseverance Lake Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, vibrant greenery
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic, moderate hike near Ketchikan, Alaska, leading to a beautiful alpine lake through lush forests and over charming boardwalks.
"Well maintained, beautiful scenery all the way to the lake. Not too steep, the elevation gain is fairly gradual."
Wear Waterproof Boots
Trail can be muddy and icy, especially in spring/fall. Waterproof boots are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Check Cruise Schedules
Avoid peak times by checking when cruise ships are in port. Early mornings are best for solitude. :clock1:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Perseverance Lake
End of the trail
A stunning alpine lake surrounded by lush greenery, offering a peaceful reward after your hike.
Boardwalks and Bridges
Various points along the trail
Navigate boggy areas and streams on charming wooden boardwalks and sturdy bridges.
Diverse Alaskan Flora
Throughout the trail
Experience the vibrant, green Alaskan landscape with towering trees and unique plant life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Weather-Ready Adventures
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Waterproof Boots
Trail can be muddy and icy, especially in spring/fall. Waterproof boots are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Check Cruise Schedules
Avoid peak times by checking when cruise ships are in port. Early mornings are best for solitude. :clock1:
Pack Rain Gear
Ketchikan is known for rain. Be prepared with waterproof layers for a comfortable hike. :umbrella:
Moderate Incline
Steady uphill climb to the lake, but well worth the effort for the views. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Waterproof Boots
Trail can be muddy and icy, especially in spring/fall. Waterproof boots are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Check Cruise Schedules
Avoid peak times by checking when cruise ships are in port. Early mornings are best for solitude. :clock1:
Pack Rain Gear
Ketchikan is known for rain. Be prepared with waterproof layers for a comfortable hike. :umbrella:
Moderate Incline
Steady uphill climb to the lake, but well worth the effort for the views. :hiking_boot:
Bear Sightings Possible
Keep an eye out for wildlife, including black bears! Stay aware and give them space. :bear:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Perseverance Lake Trail for its well-maintained paths, beautiful scenery, and gradual incline, making it a rewarding hike to a lovely lake. While generally well-regarded, some note the trail can get muddy or icy depending on the weather, and it can be quite popular, especially when cruise ships are in port.
"Great trail. Well maintained, beautiful scenery all the way to the lake. Not too steep, the elevation gain is fairly gradual."
J
"Popular trail at the Ward Lake Recreation area around 3 miles out to the lake and back. This is a switchback trail with steady incline. The trail is very popular and heavily used. The area out by the lake has recently had a boardwalk replaced. Some of the areas get a little muddy depending on the weather. Once you get to the lake, there are a couple of nice areas that have tent platforms. If you take a right on the trail just before getting to the lake, it is platform steps and trail that are the start that takes you to Carlanna Lake trail. Going to Carlanna Lake from this trail is uphill all the way. Do the reverse and come up Carlanna Lake, and then you can go down the Perseverance Lake side."
Shanny FL
"Hiked in early March, lots of ice and snow still. We didn’t have microspikes at the time when hiking, but definitely needed them. Moderate hike with variety of nature views throughout hike. Enjoyed the beautiful frozen lake at the end."
Nicolette Ayers
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Perseverance Lake Trail is conveniently located within walking distance from the cruise ship docks in Ketchikan. Head towards Ward Lake Recreation Area. The trail is well-marked and easily accessible, making it a popular choice for cruise ship passengers looking for a hike close to port.
Yes, you can drive to the trailhead for Perseverance Lake Trail. It's located about 3 miles from downtown Ketchikan, near Ward Lake. Parking is available, though it can fill up during peak times, especially when cruise ships are in.
Absolutely! Perseverance Lake Trail is one of the hiking trails suggested as being within walking distance from the Ketchikan port. It's a great option if you have limited time and want to experience a bit of Alaskan nature without needing transportation.
If you prefer not to walk the entire distance, taxis are readily available at the cruise port. They can take you directly to the Perseverance Lake Trailhead. The ride is short, given its proximity to town.
While there isn't a dedicated shuttle service specifically for Perseverance Lake Trail, local taxi services are a reliable option. Some cruise lines might offer excursions that include transportation to nearby trailheads.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to access Perseverance Lake Trail. It's a public trail within the Ward Lake Recreation Area, making it a free and accessible outdoor activity for everyone.
Perseverance Lake Trail is open year-round, from dawn to dusk. There are no set operating hours, allowing you to visit at your convenience. However, be mindful of daylight hours, especially during winter months.
Parking at the Perseverance Lake Trailhead is typically free. However, it's always a good idea to check for any posted signage, as regulations can sometimes change.
While parts of the trail are well-maintained with boardwalks, the steady incline can be challenging. Some sections may not be fully accessible for individuals with mobility issues. It's best to assess the trail conditions upon arrival.
No permits are required for general hiking on Perseverance Lake Trail. It's a public access area. If you plan on camping at the tent platforms near the lake, you might need to check for specific regulations or reservations.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Perseverance Lake and back is approximately 3 miles. Most visitors take about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete the round trip, allowing time to enjoy the scenery and the lake itself.
Perseverance Lake Trail is generally considered a moderate hike. It features a steady incline with some switchbacks, but the trail is well-maintained with boardwalks over boggy areas, making it manageable for most hikers.
You'll experience diverse Alaskan scenery, from lush forests with giant trees to boggy areas crossed by boardwalks. The trail culminates at the beautiful, serene Perseverance Lake, offering picturesque views.
Restroom facilities are usually available at the trailhead parking area. There are no restrooms directly on the trail itself, so it's advisable to use facilities before you begin your hike.
Yes, dogs are generally allowed on Perseverance Lake Trail, but they must be kept on a leash. Remember to clean up after your pet and be mindful of other hikers and potential wildlife.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire trail offers beautiful photo opportunities, from the lush green forests and wooden bridges to the final reveal of Perseverance Lake. The changing terrain and vibrant flora make for stunning shots. 
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially within national forest boundaries. It's always best to check local regulations before flying a drone. Some visitors have captured aerial shots with drones.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a golden glow. This also coincides with fewer crowds, allowing for more unobstructed shots.
While possible, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. If you are lucky enough to spot a bear or other animals, maintain a safe distance and use a zoom lens for clear photos.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive forest and lake views. A telephoto lens can be useful if you're hoping to photograph wildlife from a distance. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚢 Cruise Ship Passengers
🚶 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Ketchikan's Trails
Beyond Perseverance Lake, Ketchikan offers other hiking opportunities. Married Man's Trail is another option mentioned by visitors, often combined with exploring Creek Street.
The Alaskan Wilderness Experience
The presence of wooden bridges and boardwalks over boggy sections adds to the charm and practicality of the trail, allowing visitors to traverse the varied terrain with ease. The ultimate destination, Perseverance Lake, is a tranquil alpine lake that serves as a beautiful reward. Its serene setting provides a perfect spot for reflection and enjoying the natural splendor.
It's a reminder to stay aware of your surroundings and respect the natural habitat. Weather and Trail Conditions
The trail's maintenance, including the replacement of boardwalks, ensures it remains navigable.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit