Rabbit Lake — Labor Day Hike

# 🥾 Rabbit Lake — Labor Day Hike

Monday, September 7, 2026
Start time: 9:00 a.m.
Meet at: Upper Rabbit Creek / Rabbit Lake Trailhead at the end of Canyon Road
Join us for a Labor Day hike to beautiful Rabbit Lake, one of Anchorage’s classic Chugach State Park destinations.
We’ll follow the Rabbit Lake Trail up the Rabbit Creek Valley to the lake, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. Much of the route follows an old roadbed, so the climb is fairly gradual, but this is still a longer hike and you should be comfortable hiking close to 9 miles.

### Hike Details

🥾 Distance: Approximately 8.8 miles round trip
⬆️ Elevation gain: Approximately 1,200 feet
⏱️ Estimated time: 5–6 hours, including breaks
📈 Difficulty: Moderate
🏔️ Trail type: Out and back
We’ll hike at a moderate, social pace and regroup as needed. We’ll take a break at Rabbit Lake for snacks/lunch and photos before heading back the same way.

### Meeting & Parking

We are starting from the Rabbit Lake Trailhead at the end of Canyon Road, also sometimes shown on mapping apps as the Upper Rabbit Creek/Rabbit Lake Trailhead.
From Anchorage, take the DeArmoun Road exit, head east toward the mountains, continue onto Upper DeArmoun Road, and follow Canyon Road toward the end. You’ll pass the Sunnyside Flattop trailhead shortly before reaching the Rabbit Lake trailhead.
Parking is limited and this is a popular trail, especially on a holiday weekend, so please arrive early enough to find a space and be completely ready to hike at 9:00 a.m.
Please park carefully and be respectful of nearby residents and private property.

### What to Bring

Please come prepared with:

• Sturdy hiking shoes or boots
• Rain jacket and layers
• Plenty of water
• Lunch and snacks
• Bear spray
• Fully charged phone
• Trekking poles if you use them
• Extra warm layer for our break at the lake

The Rabbit Lake area can be very windy, and mountain weather can change quickly, so bring more layers than you think you’ll need.

### Trail Conditions

The trail is generally straightforward and gradually climbs through the valley, but sections can become muddy and wet after rain. Expect uneven ground, rocks, puddles, and potentially slippery sections.

### Wildlife & Safety

This is bear and moose country. Bear spray is strongly recommended. Stay aware of your surroundings and give wildlife plenty of space.
Please stay with the group or make sure the hike leader knows if you need to turn around.

### Dogs

Dogs are welcome but should be leashed and under control, particularly around other hikers and wildlife.

### Important

This is not a beginner hike simply because of the distance. Please make sure you’re comfortable hiking approximately 9 miles before signing up.
We plan to leave promptly at 9:00 a.m., so please arrive 10–15 minutes early.
Looking forward to a beautiful Labor Day hike to Rabbit Lake! 🏔️🥾