The ideal way to discover the terrains and the breathtaking vistas of the 49th state of the US is to go for a hike. Alaska is blessed with a plethora of trails traversing through crystal clear lakes, lush rainforests, and high elevations which will not just be marvelous sights for the sore eyes, but also will calm your mind, body, and soul. Out of the over 550 great hiking trails, knowing which ones to choose is always a challenge for many. But whichever trail you choose, you are sure to have a memorable experience. If touring beautiful Alaska is on your bucket list, then scroll below to learn about some of the best hiking and trekking spots in Alaska, USA.
1. Falls Creek Trail
Virgin Falls near Girdwood, Alaska. Photo by: Scott Rooker Photography Virgin Creek Falls Trail: Easy, Beautiful & A Must-Do: http://bit.ly/2tMVSIK
Posted by The Alaska Life on Saturday, 10 August 2019
Hiking Falls Creek Trail will treat you to some of the most breathtaking views of the state. The trail begins at Chugach State Park, just beneath the canopied forested section. It then makes its way through multiple climbs, and lightly forested terrains, before terminating in a rocky tundra with beautiful glacier-covered rock and an alpine lake. Covering the 5.4 miles (8.6 km) will be a real task and may require you to be of moderate fitness. However, the struggle will be worth every second due to the beautiful sceneries and the occasional crossing of paths with a creature such as Arctic ground squirrels and Dall sheep.
Falls Creek Trail
Address: Seward Hwy, Anchorage, AK 99540, United States
2. Lost Lake Trail
Lost Lake Trail is one of the 33 trails found in Chugach National Forest. The trail goes through a variety of terrains, starting with a rainforest before terminating at the lake in the meadows. During summer, it is a busy route for hikers and cyclists who attempt to climb 2600 feet (792 meters) to reach the summit and marvel at the breathtaking sceneries below. The trail is about 14 miles (22 km) and anyone with moderate fitness should not have any problem completing it.
Lost Lake Trail
Address: 29847 Seward Hwy, Seward, AK 99664, United States
3. Skyline Trail
This is a moderate climb trail that you can finish within an hour. The trail rises to about 1600 feet (488 meters) from the start to finish, and this provides an incredible elevation to enjoy the beauty of the region and soak in the panoramic view of the area. The best time to climb this trail is between April and September. This is when the weather is more forgiving, and the region is covered with lots of beautiful wildflowers. If you are hiking on a clear day, you may be lucky to catch a glimpse of Anchorage once you hit the summit.
Skyline Trail
Address: Sterling Hwy, Alaska, United States
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4. Resurrection Pass
Resurrection Pass is a darling to mountain bikers, backpackers, hikers and locals alike, since it is regarded as the most appropriate route for exploring the Kenai Mountains. This is one trail that will take you through fishing lakes, waterfalls, and lots of wildlife. With a length of 38 miles (61 km), this is not a trail you can tackle in one day. Most people with average fitness levels normally need at least five days to cover the distance. However, you can take it down in bite-size routes while taking advantage of the free to use cabins and the 19 campsites along the route.
Resurrection Pass
Address: 13340 Sterling Hwy, Cooper Landing, AK 99572, United States
Website: Resurrection Pass
5. Crow Pass
Crow Pass Trail is part of the historic Iditarod Trail and it is a highly recommended trail for anyone who wants to explore the Chugach Mountains. The trail begins at Girdwood and terminates at the Eagle Nature Center, treating hikers to spectacular sceneries in between. The trail is 21 miles (34 km) long, and if you commit to the full distance, you will enjoy the beautiful views of the Crystal Lake, pass through old mine ruins, and also have an experience of the Raven Glacier with its beautiful cascades. There are bears along this trail, so be ready to make a lot of noise as you move along, and also be prepared with a spray at hand.
Crow Pass
Address: Anchorage, AK 99587, USA
Website: Crow Pass
6. Winner Creek Trail
Winner Creek Trail features both upper and lower trails to take care of the needs of hikers of different fitness levels. The lower trail is relatively flat and is about 8 miles (13 km) long. It is recommended for hikers who would love to enjoy the beautiful nature without worrying to strain physically to get back to the starting point. The upper trail, on the other hand, is about 18 miles (29 km) long. It comes with moderate challenges, including crossing water in some sections. You have to be of average fitness level and mentally prepared if you want to make it through this trail.
Winner Creek Trail
Address: 601 Crow Creek Rd, Girdwood, AK 99587, United States
Website: Winner Creek Trail
7. Flattop Mountain
This trail begins at Bear Lake Trailhead before making its way to and terminating at Flattop Mountain. Its proximity to Chugach State Park makes it a very popular route, especially among those who desire to reach the mountain’s summit, which is at an elevation of about 1000 meters (3281 feet). This is a fairly difficult trail and you may have to scramble to move past certain sections. However, you will forget about all the difficulty when you hit the summit and you are rewarded by the beautiful views of Chugach Range, Anchorage, and the Alaska Range.
Flattop Mountain
Address: Anchorage, AK 99516, USA
Website: Flattop Mountain
8. Crescent Lake Trail
Crescent Lake Trail is about 8.3 miles (13 km) long, featuring moderate to steep elevation, hence, ideal for hikers with moderate fitness levels. The trail mostly goes through bushy areas and meadows, featuring spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and Crescent Lake. Some sections are rough and overgrown, and before the end of the trail, you may have to ford certain creeks.
Crescent Lake Trail
Address: Seward, AK 99664, United States
Website: Crescent Lake Trail
9. Kesugi Ridge Trail
Kesugi Ridge Trail is right out of Denali National Park, and it is well known for the breathtaking sceneries it offers during the hike. The trail starts at the Coal Creek Trailhead before going through George Parks Highway and finally terminating at Byers Lake Trailhead. The trail is about 29 miles (47 km) long, and if you manage to go through the entire length, passing through the bear-infested forests, expansive tundra terrains, and the beautiful creeks, you will understand why it is always on the go-to bucket list of many people from North America.
Kesugi Ridge Trail
Address: Alaska 99683, USA
Website: Kesugi Ridge Trail
10. Tonsina Point Trail
Tonsina Point Trail is a classic trail that starts at Lowell Point and terminates at Tonsina Point. It is a well-maintained trail of moderate difficulty, hence, it is ideal for hikers with low to medium fitness levels. The trail goes through a few bridges and has a portion running along a beach section, giving it lots of great sceneries that usually contribute to a thrilling trekking experience.
Tonsina Point Trail
Address: Lowell Point, AK 99664, USA
Website: Tonsina Point Trail
Revel in nature
There are so many beautiful natural sceneries in Alaska, and you may never have time to sample all of them. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, and you would love to get a feel of the state’s beautiful outdoors, then consider these best hiking and trekking spots in Alaska, USA, for more intimate contact with the beautiful nature.
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