Top 10 hiking trails in Alaska

Few places in the US rival Alaska's hiking diversity.

From leisurely walks to intense alpine challenges, Alaska consistently emerges as a prime destination for hikers. For those seeking peace and quiet, it's best to escape the bustling city areas and explore lesser-known paths. The staff at any of the four public lands information centers in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Tok, and Ketchikan are available to provide hikers with essential information on trails, permits, safety, and transportation to more isolated areas.

Many of Alaska's trails are intertwined with its vibrant culture and history, offering hikers the chance to engage with interpretive displays or guided tours that deepen their understanding of the largest state in the US. Whether you're walking a national park trail adorned with traditional totem poles or witnessing an ancient glacier's retreat, hiking here provides a rich, educational experience about the cultural and environmental features that define each region. From easy walks to challenging climbs, here’s our guide to the finest hiking trails in Alaska.

1. Sitka National Historical Park, Sitka

Top Short Walk 1 mile (1.6km), easy

Just a short walk from downtown Sitka, this park features lush rainforests alongside 20 totem poles, offering a beautiful journey through Southeast Alaska's cultural history. This site, where a significant battle occurred between the local Tlingit people and the Russian army in 1804, is enriched by interpretive signs that narrate the story while honoring the traditions of local tribes for future generations.

2. Trail of Blue Ice, Portage

Top Accessible Trail 5 miles one way (8km), easy

Nestled between Anchorage and the coastal village of Whittier, the Trail of Blue Ice showcases an incredible initiative by the US Forest Service to familiarize visitors with the numerous glaciers in Southcentral Alaska’s Portage Valley. This fully-accessible trail is equipped with interpretive signs that detail the glacial valley, the surrounding mountains, and the rich flora and fauna of this beloved land bridge. You can begin your hike at Moose Flats on the west end or at the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center along Portage Lake and head east. In July and August, keep an eye out for salmon in Williwaw Creek, and be vigilant for bears throughout your hike.

3. K’esugi Ken Complex Trails, Denali State Park

Hiking Trail with the Top Campground 2-mile loop (3.2km), easy

This gem of the Alaska State Park system boasts a large campground, public use cabins, and a spacious day use pavilion, all connected by a looping interpretive trail that provides breathtaking views of Denali on clear days. It’s an ideal spot to explore while enjoying the scenery and informative signs that share insights into the area's history, flora and fauna, and Alaska Native cultures. Plus, it’s a fantastic family-friendly destination.

Curious about Denali? Check out our guide for first-timers

4. Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge, Fairbanks

Best Bird-Watching Trail 1–3 miles (1.6–5km), easy

Exploring Creamer’s Field allows you to enjoy the charming barns and structures of this former dairy farm while observing a diverse array of birds throughout the year. A highlight is the migration of Sandhill cranes in August, who travel from southern states to rest and feed in Creamer’s fields before continuing their journey across Alaska. The Boreal Forest, Farm Road, and Seasonal Wetland trails are flat and interconnected, with naturalist-led walks available to help visitors learn more about the local wildlife.

5. East Glacier Trail, Juneau

Top Hike for Glacier Views 2.8 miles out and back (4.5 km), moderate

No trip to Juneau is complete without exploring the Mendenhall Glacier area. This loop trail begins at the visitor center, connects to the Trail of Time, and offers stunning views of the Mendenhall Glacier. There's also a side trail leading to A-J Waterfall (an additional 1.3 miles/2km), where you can see water cascading over rocky ledges. The trail can get crowded, so aim for an early morning or late evening hike. Be on the lookout for bears during the salmon spawning season (July to August).

Planning your Alaska trip? Choose the perfect time with our seasonal guide

6. John Hunter Memorial Trail, Valdez

Best Hike to a Lake 3.8 miles round trip (6km), moderate

Formerly the Solomon Gulch Trail, this path offers fantastic views of the Port of Valdez, where the 800-mile Trans-Alaska Pipeline concludes. After a challenging initial ascent, the trail meanders through forest and industrial areas before reaching Solomon Lake and its two hydroelectric dams. Summer months provide excellent berry picking opportunities, and bears may be spotted during the salmon spawning season (July to September).

7. Angel Rocks Loop Trail, Fairbanks

Top Hike for Geological Features 3.8-mile loop (6km), moderate

Attention, rockhounds! This well-loved yet typically uncrowded trail is captivating for its remarkable outcroppings or tors, created by molten rock that rose from below and cooled before reaching the surface. Erosion over centuries has revealed these stunning formations, now integral to the striking landscape of Interior Alaska. In summer, vibrant wildflowers flourish, and the unusual scent of sage fills the south-facing slopes. There are plenty of fantastic photo opportunities here, but please refrain from climbing on the tors to protect both safety and the geological integrity of the area.

Seeking more activities? Explore Alaska's top experiences

8. Jumbo Mine Trail 508, Kennecott (Wrangell-St Elias National Park)

Ideal Trail for Fit Hikers 5 miles (8km) one way, strenuous

For those seeking a blend of Alaska's history, stunning scenery, and an exhilarating hike, the ascent to Jumbo Mine is the perfect choice. Situated near the Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark, this trail is among several maintained by the National Park Service to inform visitors about this historic copper mill town. The steep path features switchbacks that climb 3,400 feet before reaching the Jumbo Mine site along a rocky former road. Be sure to pause along the route to catch your breath and take in spectacular views of the mill town, Root Glacier, and the snow-capped mountains surrounding you year-round. Plan to dedicate the entire day to this hike and carry ample food and water.

9. Twin Peaks Trail, Chugiak/Anchorage Area

Ultimate Trail for Scramblers and Thrill Seekers 2.6 miles (4.2 km) one way, strenuous

This short and steep trail begins at the picturesque shores of Eklutna Lake, a popular state park located about 45 minutes northeast of Anchorage. It's ideal for hikers using the Eklutna Lake campground as their base. The trail features switchbacks for most of the way, revealing breathtaking views of the lake as you ascend. Dall sheep are frequently sighted near the summit, adding a unique charm to the hike. Looking for more adventure? Extend your journey along the ridgeline to Pepper Peak for an additional 4 miles and enjoy a full day of exploration.

10. Curry Ridge, Denali State Park

Best Multi-Day Backpacking Adventure 6.5 miles (10.5 km) one way, strenuous

The vistas from the top of Curry Ridge are truly breathtaking, especially with wild blueberry bushes flourishing in late summer. Starting from the K’esugi Ken Complex near Willow, the Curry Ridge trail climbs from the K’esugi campground and meanders through alpine landscapes, making it a fantastic option for backpackers wanting to camp under the shadow of Denali. Remember to pack all necessary water and food, and stay alert as weather conditions can shift unexpectedly. Always be bear-aware during your hike.

Essential Hiking Tips for Alaska

• Stay alert for wildlife. Bears roam throughout Alaska and often share trails with hikers. Always carry bear spray (and know how to use it), make noise while you hike, travel in groups, and steer clear of dense brush near streams and rivers during salmon spawning season, typically from June to September, depending on your location.

• Be prepared for self-sufficiency. Many hiking areas lack cell service. Bring a first aid kit along with extra food, water, and gear to ensure your safety in case of an emergency.

• Pay the necessary fees in state and national parks. For further details, check out the Public Lands Information Centers.