Carmen Lake is a remote alpine lake located in the Chugach Mountains of Alaska, approximately 9 miles northwest of Whittier. The lake is 2.5 miles long and sits at the head of Glacier River. Access to Carmen Lake is primarily via jetboat, with tours departing from mile 80.5 of the Seward Highway, about 10 minutes from Girdwood.

The lake is surrounded by dramatic scenery, including towering peaks with couloirs emptying into its aqua-colored waters. A hanging blue ice glacier is visible from the lake, adding to its scenic appeal. Wildlife such as eagles and bears may be spotted in the surrounding wilderness.

Paddling on Carmen Lake is best suited for beginners, as the waters are generally calm. Guided stand-up paddleboard tours are available, offering instruction on basic paddling techniques while taking in views of the white-capped peaks. These tours typically last around 3 hours.

Due to its remote location, facilities at Carmen Lake are limited. Paddlers should be prepared with appropriate gear for cold water conditions. Weather and water levels can impact accessibility, so checking current conditions before planning a trip is advisable.

The lake serves as the put-in point for whitewater kayaking and rafting trips down the Twentymile River system. More experienced paddlers can continue downstream on the Carmen River, which features Class II rapids for about 4 miles before joining the Glacier River.

Carmen Lake's pristine waters and surrounding untouched wilderness provide a true backcountry paddling experience in the Alaskan wilderness. However, its remote nature and potential for rapidly changing conditions require careful preparation and respect for the environment.