Lower Dewey Lake and Sturgill's Landing Trail

The full route, as mapped on komoot, is approximately 9.6 kilometers (6 miles) and generally takes around 2 hours and 51 minutes to complete. However, if you extend your trip to include the full round trip to Sturgill's Landing and back, it can be closer to 7-8 miles (11.3-12.9 km) and take 4-5 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend enjoying the views.

This trail is rated as moderate. The initial section from the Dewey Lake Trailhead is the steepest but is relatively short. You'll hike through mixed pine, spruce, and hemlock forests, alongside Lower Dewey Lake, with some ups and downs. The descent towards Sturgill's Landing becomes rocky and can be hazardous when wet, so exercise caution. If you choose to loop around Lower Dewey Lake, the east side is generally rougher than the west.

The trail officially begins at the Dewey Lake Trailhead, which is conveniently accessible from downtown Skagway. While specific parking lots aren't detailed, its proximity to town suggests street parking or designated areas within Skagway would be your best bet.

Yes, this trail is dog-friendly! It's a great option for hiking with your canine companion. Please ensure your dog is on a leash and you pack out any waste to help keep the trail clean for everyone.

The trail offers diverse and picturesque scenery. Early on, you'll find nice viewpoints overlooking Skagway. As you progress, you'll encounter 'enchanted forestscapes,' glimpses of Lower Dewey Lake, and opportunities to see wildflowers. Further along, you'll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Lynn Canal, surrounding mountains, and the Taiya Inlet, where Mt. Harding and Harding Glacier are visible. The trail culminates at a beautiful beach on the Lynn Canal at Sturgill's Landing.

While the trail can be enjoyed in various seasons, the best time for hiking is typically during the warmer months when wildflowers are in bloom and conditions are generally drier. Cross-country skiing is also an option in winter, but be prepared for snow and ice. For marine mammal viewing from the Taiya Inlet lookout, summer and fall are often good.

The Lower Dewey Lake and Sturgill's Landing Trail is located within the Tongass National Forest. Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for day hiking on this trail. However, if you plan to use the basic camping facilities at Sturgill's Landing (tent spots, fire rings, outhouse), these are provided by the National Forest Service, and it's always a good idea to check the latest regulations on the nps.gov or alaska.gov websites for any updates or specific rules regarding camping or extended stays.

Yes, the Lower Dewey Lake and Sturgill's Landing Trail is part of the larger Dewey Lakes Trail System. The route itself also passes through sections of the Lower Dewey Lake Loop and the Pullen Creek Stream Walk.

At Sturgill's Landing, you'll find basic camping facilities provided by the National Forest Service. These include tent spots, fire rings, and an outhouse, making it a suitable spot for a rustic overnight stay or a longer break during your hike.

Given its 'moderate' difficulty rating and some steep sections and rocky descents, the trail might be challenging for very young children or absolute beginners. However, the shorter loop around Lower Dewey Lake (approximately 4.8 km) is a more manageable option. For the full route to Sturgill's Landing, hikers should have a reasonable level of fitness and be prepared for varied terrain.

The trail offers opportunities to spot various wildlife. Keep an eye out for birds, as birding is a popular activity here. From the lookout over Taiya Inlet, you might also be able to view marine mammals. As with any wilderness area, be aware of your surroundings and respect local wildlife.