Skookum Lakes Trail

The trailhead is at mile 13.1 on Swanson River Road, on the east side of the road. The trail passes through gently rolling hills, with no significant gain or loss in elevation. Trees along the trail are mainly spruce and birch. The trail passes Dabbler Lake and the Skookum Lake spur on the way to Drake Lake; the trail spur to Skookum Lake is approximately 1 mile in; Skookum Lake is about 1/8 mile from this junction. Both Drake and Skookum Lakes are within the Dave Spencer Unit of the Kenai Wilderness, and wilderness regulations apply. The only views available from the trail are from the lakeshores of Drake and Skookum Lakes. OTHER ACTIVITIES: Dabbler, Drake, and Skookum Lakes provide good wildlife viewing and birding opportunities. Moose are present in good numbers, and bear, wolf, and coyote tracks can often be seen along the trail. Drake Lake is a beautiful lake with several small islands. This lake provides nice canoeing, but please note that the trail is a 1-mile portage. WINTER ACTIVITIES: The trail is very suitable for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and dog sledding. Ice fishing is possible on Drake and Skookum Lakes.