15 Incredible Hikes
Under 5 Miles Everyone In Alaska Should Take
When you live in the largest and most undeveloped state in the
nation, it’s kind of a given that you would have the most
awesome outdoor playground in the world. From stunning mountain
views, lush forests, glorious glaciers, abundant wildlife,
booming waterfalls and so much more. Let’s face it – Alaskans
are spoiled. Check out these 15 incredible hikes under five
miles that everyone in Alaska should most definitely put on
their bucket lists ASAP.
1. Portage Pass – Whittier
This awesome hike is located just through the infamous tunnel to
Whittier on the right hand side of the road. There is about a 800
ft elevation gain throughout this five mile round trip (in and
out) trail. Hikers can enjoy phenomenal views of Portage Glacier
along with trail with Prince William Sound’s Passage Canal in the
distance. When you walk down to the gravel beach area it is
recommended to sit back and have the most epic picnic of your
life.
This three mile round-trip hike is probably the most popular in
all of the Anchorage bowl. The beginning of the trail is comprised
of a wooden staircase. There are switchbacks up the mountain that
wind through hemlock. Once you reach the top you will be in the
middle of alpine tundra filled with yummy blueberries (when in
season). This hike is rated as intermediate level as there is a
somewhat steep elevation gain but it isn't too challenging to bag.
The view from the top appears to be something out of a dream. With
views of Anchorage, the inlet and mountains in the distance,
hikers are sure to be awe-inspired.
Less than a mile from the trail-head, hikers will enjoy a
fantastic view of the falls. There is a 500 feet elevation gain
and much of the trail is on a narrow boardwalk, which can get
slippery at times so it is encouraged to always use caution.
Hikers will go through a dense hemlock forest before popping out
at the beautiful Rainbow Falls.
This five mile hike is worthy of writing home about. However, once
you go to the adorably quaint town of Hope, you might not ever
want to go home (it's really easy to fall in love and never
leave). On this hike you will see impressive views of Turnagain
Arm. It is a difficult nearly straight upwards hike though so it
is encouraged that you be physically prepared before attempting
this journey. Once you make it to the top, your eyes will be
sparkling from left to right.
This three mile trek is perfect for day trips and picnics alike.
To access it, hikers will actually need to get on the Primrose
Trail in the Chugach National Forest. It is a great area to enjoy
spectacular scenery, lush forest and the fresh outdoor air.
6. Angel Rocks Trail – Chena Hot Springs
This 3.5 mile loop has some steep climbs in elevation but the
stunning landscapes of the Alaska Range are well worth the trip.
Huge molten rocks are fun to explore and delicious blueberries can
be found along the way. Allow plenty of time to go off the beaten
path to check out all the cool natural formations that are sure to
intrigue you.
This is such a magical place. Visitors can enjoy a three mile
journey on Albert Loop or they can opt for the five mile hike up
to view loud, booming waterfalls dropping off 3,000 foot steep
cliffs.
It sounds a little eerie and sure, it might wind through an old
cemetery, but this trail is packed with history and scenic views
along the way. And once you hit the end, you will be greeted by a
beautiful dose of eye-candy. This trail is 2.5 miles round trip.
This 3 mile round-trip hike on the Kenai Peninsula submerge you
into Alaska's back-country within the first few minutes of the
hike. It is accessible off of Skilak Lake Loop in Cooper Landing
and is a great place to see wildlife, bring a fishing pole or have
a picnic lunch.
10. Rendezvous Peak Trail – Anchorage
Flickr - susby
Views for days, baby - views for days! If you want to be left
feeling like you are head over heels in love with Alaska, head to
the Rendezvous Peak Trail in the Arctic Valley area of Anchorage.
From the top you can see views of Anchorage, Cook Inlet, Ship
creek and over towards Eagle River. Distance is roughly 3.5 miles.
This is one of those absolutely "must do's" if you visit the
beautiful town of Seward. From the parking area, it is only about
an hour long trip to get to the glacier and back. Those that want
to go further can hike up to seven miles while exploring the
glacier. Exit Glacier is one of the 35 glaciers that flow off the
500 sq mile Harding Icefield in Kenai Fjords National Park.
This 2.5 mile loop trail offers something for everyone. Enjoy lush
forest, sparkling streams, wildlife viewing and even the ability
wet a line and catch some fish. Throughout the hike you can enjoy
stunning view of Bear Mountain and the Baranof Islands.
You can get to Penguin Peak by stopping at the Bird Creek Valley
hiking area on the left side of the road as you head towards
Girdwood from Anchorage. This two mile hike is rated as
'difficult' as it leads you to a high point of 4,334 feet up. When
you reach the top you will have a phenomenal view over Turnagain
Arm, so it's definitely worth the trek. But be sure to pack a
hearty lunch because you are sure to burn lots of energy on this
climb.
At just 3.4 miles, the Carter Lake Trail is the perfect way to
spend a day on the Kenai Peninsula. Trout fishing is available in
Carter Lake while grayling have been said to be found in Crescent
Lake (which is less than a mile away).
This four mile long path is located conveniently within the
Anchorage city limits right in the middle of town. It is a
beautiful, scenic "happy place" for those looking to escape the
noise and city lights. This path is great for hiking, running,
biking or walking the dogs.