Developed as a shoreline trail, this pleasant mile-long walk also diverts pedestrians off Kachemak Drive, where the road has poor visibility because of a hill. In strong westerly winter winds, scores of otters have been viewed taking shelter in this bay. Mud Bay also provides excellent birding on receding tides.
At the eastern end of the trail, take a short dirt road back up to Kachemak Drive or for a longer walk you may continue along the beach. If you continue, be aware of the tides, higher tides may cover the beach. There are very few options (mostly unmarked section line paths) to exit the beach further east.
Access: Parking is available at both ends of the trail.
From the western end of the trail, at the base of the Homer Spit just off Kachemak Drive, there are 20+ parking spots. Cross Kachemak Drive, turn left (east), and follow the end of the paved bicycle/walking path that quickly becomes a dirt path along the road. Just before the hill and a red and white striped pole, the path becomes visible, diverging below the road to follow the shoreline.
At the east end of the trail, there are several parking spots on either side of the gated road that leads down to the beach below the Kachemak Bay Research Reserve offices. Walk down the road to the beach and look for the trail sign on the right (west).
History: In 2010 the Parks and Recreation, Kachemak Drive Path Committee for the City of Homer was trying to find a way to move pedestrians off Kachemak Drive because of the poor visibility on the hill. This area along the beach was surveyed to route the trail above the 26-foot high tide line. Most of the clearing was done in 2011.
Distance: 1 mile (one way) to 20+
Elevation change: none
Trail Management Agency: City of Homer
