🌲 Red Shirt Lake Trail Adventure: TrailMates Hit the Trail for a Bluebird Fall Hike

Sara Burda
Oct 19
3 min read

A group of people and dogs pose for a photo in a forest with a large tree. They're smiling, with clear blue skies and dry grass around.

A Bluebird Day with the TrailMates Crew

On October 14th, our TrailMates community met at the Nancy Lake Recreation Area for an easy-going afternoon hike on the Red Shirt Lake Trail, a 5.5-mile out-and-back with about 800 ft of elevation gain. Led by the always-up-for-adventure Tina, the day was the definition of Alaska magic: crisp air, bright skies, and fall colors that popped against the evergreen backdrop.

This one drew a friendly crew of both new and returning faces, some who’ve hiked with TrailMates for years and others joining for the first time. Despite the group size, the vibe stayed easy and connected, with conversations flowing as naturally as the trail beneath our boots.

Snowy mountain peaks between bare trees under a clear blue sky, creating a serene and tranquil landscape.

🍄 Mushrooms, Bridges, and Blue Skies — Oh My!

The Red Shirt Lake Trail is one of those hidden gems that’s never quite the same twice. Early in the hike, the trail wound through golden birch forest, with pops of red and orange leaves carpeting the ground.

Every few steps, someone stopped to admire the mushrooms scattered across the trail — from tiny button caps to those big fairy-tale ones that make you want to grab a camera.

“Perfect temps, good people, and Denali showing off — you can’t beat that.”

Sunlit forest path with wooden planks, surrounded by tall, bare trees and dry foliage, casting long shadows under a clear blue sky.

Wooden bridges carried the crew over creeks that shimmered in the sunlight, and the lake itself didn’t disappoint. Once we reached the shoreline, the still water mirrored the mountains — and in the distance, we caught a clear glimpse of Denali standing tall on the horizon.

🌞 That TrailMates Moment — Slowing Down by the Lake

Before turning back, everyone took a quiet pause by the water. Packs came off, boots rested on smooth rocks, and laughter echoed across the still surface of Red Shirt Lake. It wasn’t a rush to move on — it was one of those slow-down moments that make TrailMates hikes so special.

Some snapped photos of the fall reflections, others simply took a few deep breaths, soaking in the crisp air and sunshine. It’s easy to forget how healing a simple afternoon outside can be until you’re there — surrounded by good company, no service, no distractions, just that deep exhale that only the outdoors gives you.

Man in a cap sits on a log by a lake, petting a dog. He's holding a leash, wearing hiking gear. Tall trees line the shore under a clear sky.

🍦 Post-Hike Ice Cream Tradition (Because Why Not?)

After looping around the lake and taking a few photos, the crew headed back to the trailhead in good spirits and good hunger. Naturally, the only logical next stop was ice cream, because no TrailMates hike is complete without a little sweet reward.

There’s something about sitting together after a few miles on the trail, swapping stories over cones, that makes the community aspect of TrailMates so special.

Four people enjoying ice cream cones in front of a giant soft-serve sculpture. Clear sky and building in the background, casual mood.

💬 A Big Group with That Small-Group Feel

That’s the thing about TrailMates — whether it’s five people or twenty, there’s always a sense of connection. It’s not about racing to the finish; it’s about walking together, sharing stories, and remembering that being outdoors is so much better together.

Hikes like this remind us that the outdoors isn’t just good for your body, it’s a full reset for your mind. The fresh air, the laughter, the unplugged conversations, it’s the kind of therapy you don’t need an appointment for.

🥾 Join Us for More Alaska Adventures

If you’ve been thinking about joining a TrailMates hike, consider this your sign. Whether you’re brand new to hiking or you’ve already got a full list of trail conquests, there’s always space for you in this crew.

👉 Visit our TrailMates Events Page to RSVP for upcoming hikes and be part of the next adventure!

And if you’d like to help keep these community hikes going strong, consider supporting us:💚 Make a small donation here to help TrailMates keep the outdoors accessible and inclusive for everyone. Check out the photos of the adventure below!