Peterson Lake #4 Traditional Cache
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Difficulty:
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Terrain:
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Size: 
(small)
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Fourth in a series of caches along the Peterson Lake Trail. Cache is about mile 4.2. Trailhead at about mile 24 Glacier highway. The first hundred feet of trail rises somewhat steeply up a planked and gravel path, then follows an old tramway with a gentle grade. The entire trail has an elevation gain of 700ft over 4.3 miles, and is planked over the most wet areas.
This lovely trail follows Peterson Creek. It passes through hemlock forests and muskeg meadows filled with flowers, is less used than other trails, and is a great place for a quiet walk in the woods. The trail was named after John Peterson who had a mining claim in the area in 1899. Remnants of the old tramway can be seen along the trail, especially in the meadows. It is now a National Forest Trail ending in a cozy US Forest service cabin at mile 4.3. Information about the cabin can be found at www.fs.fed.us/r10/tongass/cabins/juneau/peterson_lake.shtml , and reservations can be made online at www.recreation.gov .
The Peterson Lake (Creek) Trail is a sportfish access trail. Coho, Chum, Pink, Steelhead (in spring), and rainbow trout can be found in the creek below the falls, and Cutthroat, and Dolly Varden are in the lake. For fishing licenses online, visit www.admin.adfg.state.ak.us/license .
Cache is a 2x5x7 inch lock-n-lock clear tupperware. the section of trail after the new bridge (mile 2.5) requires stepping over rocks and roots. This cache is placed two blocks before the trail end at the cabin, out of sight of the cabin and dock. Peterson Lake is a wooded area with water lillies and a couple of beaver dams. The cabin has a rowboat for use with cabin rental.
A few comments about all Alaska trails:
1. Bears live all over the state. Although bear encounters are rare, it's a good idea to make noise as you hike.
2. There will be muddy areas. Wear water resistant footwear.
3. If you bring your dog, carry a leatherman or pliers. Everywhere there's evergreens, there's porcupines.
Go take a hike!
This message is from the Heritage Program staff at the Juneau Ranger District, Tongass National Forest. Portions of the Peterson Lake Trail overly an historic tramway. Working in partnership with the US Forest Service, Trail Mix crews have upgraded the first 3/4 mile of trail and built some replica segments of tramway for your enjoyment. There is a temporary interpretive sign at the trailhead, and plans are in the works for a permanent sign. The Forest Service manages this area for its historical values and it is protected by federal laws. While you are in this area, please remember to leave ruins and artifacts completely undisturbed. Take only photographs and cherished memories. You are a valuable steward of Juneau’s unique and enduring history.
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
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