Redoubt Lake sits in the mountains above Sitka and holds cutthroat trout and Dolly Varden in cold, clear water

Redoubt Lake is a high-elevation alpine lake in the Sitka area, roughly 2,000 feet above sea level in the coastal mountains. The water is cold and clear, and the lake holds native cutthroat trout and Dolly Varden char. The setting is remote and exposed—no maintained trail leads to it, and weather can change fast. Most anglers reach it by hiking cross-country from the Redoubt Lake Trail trailhead, which sits about 45 minutes from downtown Sitka by vehicle.

The lake itself is small, maybe 20 acres, and shallow in most places. That means the fish are not large, but they are willing. Cutthroat here run 8 to 12 inches typically, with occasional fish to 14 inches. The Dolly Varden are similar in size. Because the lake sits above the tree line, there is no shelter from wind or sun, and the water temperature stays cold even in summer. Fishing is best in July and August when the ice is gone and the weather is most stable.

Key Takeaways

  • Redoubt Lake requires a cross-country hike of roughly 3 to 4 miles from the trailhead, with no maintained path and significant elevation gain.
  • Cutthroat trout and Dolly Varden are present but small, typically 8 to 12 inches, and the lake is shallow with limited holding water.
  • The lake sits above tree line in exposed alpine terrain, so weather is unpredictable and wind can be severe even in summer.
  • July and August offer the best conditions; earlier in the season the lake may still have ice, and later months bring rain and shorter daylight.
  • No services, shelter, or maintained facilities exist at the lake, so you must carry all gear, water, and emergency supplies yourself.

Getting to the Redoubt Lake Trailhead

The trailhead is accessed via the Redoubt Lake Trail, which begins on the outskirts of Sitka. From downtown, drive south on Halibut Point Road for roughly 10 miles, then turn onto the road that leads toward the Sitka National Historical Park area. The trailhead parking area is small and can fill on weekends. Arrive early or plan for a weekday visit if possible.

The drive takes about 45 minutes from town. The road is paved for most of the distance but becomes gravel near the trailhead. In winter and early spring, snow and ice can make the final miles difficult or impassable. Check with the Sitka Ranger District before you go if you are visiting outside the main summer season.

The Hike to Redoubt Lake

From the trailhead, the Redoubt Lake Trail itself is maintained for roughly the first mile, then becomes increasingly faint. After that point, you are hiking cross-country through alpine meadow and low brush. The total distance is approximately 3 to 4 miles, depending on the exact route you choose. Elevation gain is steady and significant—you climb roughly 1,500 feet over that distance.

The hike takes 2 to 3 hours one way for most anglers, longer if you are not accustomed to steep terrain or if snow patches remain on the route. The ground is often wet and boggy, especially in the lower sections. Wear waterproof boots and gaiters. Bring a map and compass or GPS device; the route is not obvious, and fog can roll in quickly and erase landmarks. Cairns (stacked rocks) mark the way in some sections, but do not rely on them alone.

Once you reach the lake, the shore is rocky and exposed. There is no established campsite, though flat ground exists in a few spots near the outlet. If you plan to stay overnight, camp well away from the water and pack out all waste.

What Fish Live Here and How to Fish Them

Cutthroat trout are the primary species. They are native to Southeast Alaska and thrive in cold, clear water with minimal food. They are not large, but they are eager to take small flies and spinners. Fish the shallower areas near the inlet and outlet, where water movement brings food and oxygen. Early morning and late evening are most productive, though cutthroat will feed throughout the day in alpine lakes.

Dolly Varden char are also present and often mixed in with the cutthroat. They prefer slightly deeper water and are more likely to take larger flies or small spoons. Both species are native and protected; check current Sitka area regulations for any restrictions on harvest or catch-and-release requirements before you fish.

Bring small flies—size 12 to 16—in patterns that imitate local insects: mosquitoes, midges, and small mayflies. A light spinning rod with 2-pound test works well for this lake. The water is so clear that heavy line and large lures will spook fish. Ultralight gear is ideal if you are comfortable with it. Waders are useful but not essential; the shore is rocky enough that you can reach good water without wading deep.

Weather and Seasonal Conditions

Redoubt Lake sits in the alpine zone, which means weather is severe and changeable. Wind is common and can be strong enough to make fishing difficult or unsafe. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible even in July and August. Hypothermia is a real risk if you fall in or get caught in rain without proper clothing.

July and August are the only reliable months. The lake is usually ice-free by mid-July, though early-season snow can linger into July some years. September brings shorter days and increasing rain. By October, snow is likely and the lake may begin to freeze. Winter access is not practical for most anglers.

Bring a weather-resistant jacket, hat, and gloves even in summer. The temperature at 2,000 feet is typically 10 to 15 degrees cooler than sea level. Wind chill can make it feel much colder. Bring extra layers and a waterproof pack cover for your gear.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

This is a backcountry trip, not a day hike to a developed lake. You must carry everything you need. Bring a daypack with at least 20 liters of capacity, or a larger pack if you plan to camp overnight. Pack water (the lake water is safe to drink but filtering or boiling is wise), food, a headlamp, a first aid kit, and a map and compass. Bring more water than you think you need; there is no reliable source between the trailhead and the lake.

Fishing gear should be minimal and light. A single rod, a small tackle box, and a net are enough. Leave heavy gear at home. Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support; the terrain is rocky and uneven. Bring insect repellent; mosquitoes are present and aggressive in July and August.

Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. Cell service is unreliable or absent in the mountains. Bring a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite communicator if you have one, especially if you are hiking alone.

Regulations and Permits

Redoubt Lake is in the Tongass National Forest and is open to the public for fishing. No special permit is required to fish, but you must follow Alaska Department of Fish and Game regulations for the Sitka area. Regulations change year to year and may differ for cutthroat and Dolly Varden. Check the current Sport Fishing Regulations booklet before you go, or call the Sitka Ranger District office at (907) 747-6671 to confirm what is allowed.

Camping in the Tongass National Forest is generally permitted, but camp at least 100 feet from the lake shore and away from any water sources. Pack out all trash, including fishing line and food scraps. Leave no trace of your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I reach Redoubt Lake as a day trip from Sitka?

Yes, but it is a long day. The hike is 3 to 4 miles each way with significant elevation gain, taking 2 to 3 hours up and 1.5 to 2 hours down. Add 2 to 3 hours of fishing time, and you are looking at 8 to 10 hours total. Start before dawn and plan to hike out in daylight. An overnight trip is more comfortable and gives you more time to fish.

What if I get lost on the way to the lake?

The route becomes faint after the first mile, and fog can erase landmarks quickly. Bring a map and compass and know how to use them. If you lose the route, stop and orient yourself rather than pushing forward. Retrace your steps to a known point. If you are truly lost, stay put, use your headlamp or whistle to signal, and wait for help. Cell service is unreliable, so a personal locator beacon is valuable insurance.

Is the lake safe to drink from?

The water is cold and clear, but giardia and other parasites can be present. Filtering or boiling the water is the safest approach. Bring a lightweight water filter or purification tablets to reduce weight. If you do not have either, boil water for at least one minute before drinking.

What is the best time of year to fish Redoubt Lake?

July and August are ideal. The lake is reliably ice-free, weather is most stable, and daylight is longest. June can still have snow and ice. September is possible but brings shorter days and more rain. October and later are not practical for most anglers.

Do I need a guide to reach Redoubt Lake?

No, but backcountry experience and navigation skills are valuable. If you are unfamiliar with cross-country hiking or map reading, consider hiring a local guide or going with someone who has done the hike before. The Sitka Ranger District can recommend outfitters who lead trips to alpine lakes in the area.