This dive site, Olnes Pond North, is a shallow, accessible pond located just north of Fairbanks, Alaska, off the Elliot Highway. It offers multiple shore entry points, making it convenient for divers of all experience levels. Surrounded by campground parking, it's easily reachable. While no specific history or complex navigation is mentioned, its small size implies straightforward underwater exploration, likely following the pond's natural contours.
The Alaska Department of Fish and Game actively stocks Olnes Pond with Rainbow Trout and Arctic Greyling, providing a unique cold-water fish viewing experience. Beyond the stocked fish, divers may encounter at least one resident muskrat and various ducks on the surface, with possibilities for pond-dwelling invertebrates and aquatic vegetation typical of Alaskan freshwater environments.
The best time to visit Olnes Pond North would likely be during the warmer months when the ice has melted and water temperatures are more hospitable for diving, though drysuit diving is recommended for year-round access. It's an excellent site for divers looking for unique freshwater experiences, especially those interested in observing stocked fish in a tranquil setting. Freedivers and snorkelers will also find the shallow, calm waters ideal for practice and observing surface wildlife.
