As Alaska heats up in the coming months, take advantage of the few days you can actually say “it’s hot out” by heading to these excellent swimming spots. There are lakes, rivers, and the Pacific ocean on this list, but they are all places to swim in the cool, clear water and fresh air in the pristine natural places that we all love about the Alaska. So no matter how untouched your skin is by the sun’s rays, grab a swimsuit and a picnic (and some bug dope) and to head to the nearest spot for a summer escape.
1. Lake Lucille, Wasilla
One of the many lakes in the Valley, this lake has clear water and is easy to get to. You can build a campfire, go fishing and tent or RV camp for a small fee.
2. Lost Lake, Kenai Peninsula
A serious 7 mile hike one way, but once you arrive this spot is incredibly beautiful. The lake has a sinewy shoreline and it's easy to find a secluded swimming spot even though it's so popular on hot, beautiful summer days.
3. China Poot Bay, Halibut Cove, Kenai Peninsula
Take a dip in First Lake on the China Post Lake Trail. Only slightly elevated and not as cold as some of the others. With pond lilies dotting the lake and the cool clear water glittery aqua, this spot is out of a dream.
4. Wasilla Lake, Wasilla
This popular local spot is for recreating on a hot summer day. Bring your swimsuit, kayak and canoe for a day of fun in the sun!
5. Goose Lake, Anchorage
One of Anchorage's official swimming spots with a supervised swim area with lifeguards on duty from Noon - 9 PM daily. On a hot day, this place is alive with Alaskans splashing around and enjoying the water.
6. Chena Lakes, North Pole
A favorite spot of area locals, Chena Lakes Recreation Area has great beaches on a hot day. Open 24/7 from Memorial Day to Labor Day with quiet hours from 10 PM - 6 AM. The top layer of the warm warms up to a great temperature for splashing around. A small day use fee is charged at the gate for swimming, fishing, camping or pavilion use for parties. Enjoy the cool, pristine fresh Alaskan lake water.
7. Big Lake North Recreation Area, Big Lake
Definitely the local hang out for beach days and swimming. There are campsites, fire pits, and fishing areas as well as a nice shallow area for splashing around.
8. Jewel Lake, Anchorage
The other supervised swim area in Anchorage with a supervised swimming area and a lifeguard Noon-9 PM. This lake is beautiful and you will probably see swans gliding along the surface.
9. Symphony Lake, east of Anchorage
A one way hike to this lake is 6 miles, but it is worth it. The turquoise water is straight, clear glacial run off. On a hot day with the sweaty hike, you might just be ready for a dip in the icy water. In fact, it might feel amazing.
10. Christiansen Lake, Talkeetna
This is touted as the best swimming spot in Talkeetna. Swim here in teh lake which features clean, clear water with temperatures in the 60's. The public dock is a few miles out of town.
11. Tanana Lakes, Fairbanks
The newest addition to the State Recreation Facilities in the area, this cool new swimming spot is on the South side of town and is the hot spot for family picnicking, swimming, and jet skis adventures on sunny afternoons in the Tanana Valley.
Have you been swimming in Alaska lately? Let us know about it in the comments below.
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