Big Lake Alaska

With 67 miles shoreline, the size of this lake is downright remarkable and truly lives up to its name. Big Lake, located north of Wasilla on the Parks Highway (Hwy. 3), offers a bounty of year-round recreation.

In the summer, Big Lake is abuzz with activities of all kinds. Recreational boaters flock to the area, to spend an afternoon exploring the lake or to wet a line and fish for the many species of fish available. The lake is also a popular place for people to ride personal watercraft, waterski or even swim. The town offers a full range of services, including a grocery store and several types of accommodations, from small bed and breakfasts to extravagant lodges with lakeside settings.

In the winter, the activity level only increases in Big Lake, as it's a recreational hub for a variety of activities. Once the lake freezes, an elaborate "ice highway" of roads is created, making access to all areas of the lake even easier in the winter than in the summer. Big Lake has a maintained and groomed snowmobile trail system that is one of the most popular in all of Alaska. You can rent a snowmobile and explore yourself, or hire a guide for a truly immersive experience. Dog mushing and cross-country skiing are also popular with the locals and visitors alike.

Big Lake has a slower pace of life, but the views are grand - marvel at Mount Susitna, Denali and the Talkeetna Mountains while spending time in Big Lake. Take it easy and camp or stay at one of the lodges, and you won't be disappointed. Take a self drive around the area and you'll find signs of one of the worst natural disasters in the Valley's history - the 1998 Miller's Reach Fire. The natural vegetation is slowly returning to its pre-fire stages, but it's a reminder to always stay "fire wise" in the outdoors.