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Recreation AreaRecreation.gov

Upper Dickey Lake Trail

Glennallen, Alaska · Valdez-Cordova County

The 6-mile-long Upper Dickey Lake Trail runs westward up the southern side of the Middle Fork of the Gulkana River, providing access to Dickey Lake. It is accessed by following Swede Lake Trail and then crossing the river. The majority of this trail lies within the Gulkana National Wild River corridor as well as the Ta…

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62.90798, -145.94807
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About Upper Dickey Lake Trail

The 6-mile-long Upper Dickey Lake Trail runs westward up the southern side of the Middle Fork of the Gulkana River, providing access to Dickey Lake. It is accessed by following Swede Lake Trail and then crossing the river. The majority of this trail lies within the Gulkana National Wild River corridor as well as the Tangle Lakes Archaeological District (TLAD) and users are required to stay on the designated trail. There is an undeveloped camp site at the trail end near Dickey Lake. The first sections of this trail are extremely wet and boggy. The trail begins to dry out at mile 2 and stays fairly dry until the end. Please stay on designated trails, which are marked with green dotted signs. Red dotted signs within the TLAD are not open to motorized use, unless 6 inches of frozen ground or 12 inches of snow cover are present. This trail is recommended for motorized use due to wet sections near the start of the trail.

How to Get There

Accessed via the Swede Lake Trail. From Paxson Lake travel west on the Denali Highway to milepost 16.2 and turn left to the trailhead.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Upper Dickey Lake Trail

Heading to Upper Dickey Lake Trail? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Upper Dickey Lake Trail?

No central reservation system listed for Upper Dickey Lake Trail. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/14542) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Upper Dickey Lake Trail?

Accessed via the Swede Lake Trail. From Paxson Lake travel west on the Denali Highway to milepost 16.2 and turn left to the trailhead.

How do I contact Upper Dickey Lake Trail?

You can reach the park at phone: 907-822-3217 or email: blm_ak_gfo_general_delivery@blm.gov.