For the ambitious hiker and camper, opportunities are equally diverse in Anchorage’s massive playground. If your ideal visit to Alaska means going off grid, stuff your backpack and start walking! the Chugach State Park is packed with mountains, wildlife and waterways, and covered from corner to corner by hiking possibilities.
Hikes come in many forms here: long and short, easy and difficult, wooded and alpine, day and overnight, and everything in between. Anchorage’s most popular hike, Flattop, can be conquered in a quick afternoon, but its trailhead at Glen Alps is also the access point to many longer, more adventurous treks into the Chugach.
One of the best leads to Williwaw Lakes. A relatively mild 6-mile hike along Campbell Creek brings you to a set of tiny lakes at the foot of Mount Williwaw. It’s the perfect overnight tent camping place. It’s literally just a handful of miles from downtown, yet so far removed. Framed by mountains and dotted by lakes, you’ll you think you’re in another world. You might even see a moose, bear or sheep if you look hard enough.
A drive north of downtown will take you to the South Fork Eagle River trail head, which is the access point to a steady 6-mile hike that leads to big lakes, Eagle and Symphony, as well as boulder fields and plenty of scenic spots for a tent.
Feeling more ambitious? Try Crow Pass, a rough and rustic 24-mile backcountry hike between Girdwood and Eagle River. This traverse is not for beginners – it includes river and creek crossings, tough climbs, steep drops and lots of dense forest – but the payoff is huge: glacier and wildlife sightings and all the peace, quiet and wilderness you can wish for.
Those are just a few of the great nearby hikes that can take you far, far away. Most Alaska hiking books have great trail details and locals working at gear shops are typically trail savvy, so ask them for tips. There are also plenty of campground options, which can be as easy as pulling a vehicle into a spot and setting up camp (make sure to pay any fees).
If your idea of camping means a solid roof over your head, you’re also in luck. Check out Alaska State Parks Public Use Cabins, which offer affordable rentals year-round in many popular, scenic and easily accessible Anchorage locations like Eklutna Lake and Eagle River. Eagle River Nature Center is the trail head to two nearby yurts and one cabin. These spots can act as your base of operations for longer day hikes or just a quiet day away. If you’re hunkering down in the cabin, bring a sleeping bag and firewood, and always follow the cabin rules.
No matter if your destination is a warm cabin or cool campground, remember to wear and pack appropriate gear – the weather can shift quickly here; know your trails and even consider bringing a map for longer trips; be bear aware and safe with your food; and always tell someone where you’re going and what your plans are.
