Alaska is one of the most underrated states in the US for its untouched, otherworldly landscapes. The best way to experience it is by hitting the trail and experiencing the landscapes on foot, passing by turquoise lakes, millenniums-old glaciers, and unique indigenous history.
Regardless of your age or experience level, there are incredible hikes in Alaska for the entire family to enjoy.
Lace your boots and embark on these epic Alaskan hikes, with options for every hiker.
Glacier View Loop
Have you always wanted to see a glacier up close and personal? Glacier View Loop in Kenai Fjords National Park is the perfect opportunity to bring your dreams to life.
This accessible trail begins at the Exit Glacier Nature Center and leads to Glacier View. At this overlook, you’ll witness breathtaking views, a fantastic reward for the relatively easy one-mile trek.
Chilkoot Trail
The 33-mile Chilkoot Trail follows a former Klondike Gold Rush trading route. It’s popular among trail runners and backpackers seeking their next Alaskan adventure.
The National Park Service estimates that 15,000 people use the trail annually. This historic journey begins in Dyea and crosses into Canada, highlighting artifacts from the late 1800s as you hike.
Totem Trail
You’ll find the historic Totem Trail in the charming town of Sitka. The 1-mile loop leads you through the forested National Historical Park. Expect to see towering trees and numerous Haida and Tlingit totems. Hikers of all experience levels can enjoy this casual stroll.
Reed Lakes Trail
If you’re up for a challenge, consider Reed Lakes Trail near Palmer. You’ll have to hike almost nine miles roundtrip through Hatcher Pass to reach the lakes.
Reed Lakes Trail is moderately challenging, gaining over 2,000 feet of elevation in total. Thundering waterfalls, rocky peaks, and picturesque lakes make it worthwhile.
Flattop Mountain
You can’t visit Alaska without reaching the summit of Flattop Mountain. As one of Anchorage’s most popular day hikes, Flattop is an excellent option for hikers of all ages.
While the summit trail is pretty rocky and steep, accessible paths are located lower on the mountain for those with limited mobility. Beautiful sights await you at Flattop Mountain.
Angel Rocks Trail
Angel Rocks Trail is a breathtaking journey along the Chena River. It’s a 3.5-mile loop that follows the river before ascending to a sweeping vista. Scramble along the rocks and pack a picnic lunch to enjoy alongside the mountain views.
Winner Creek Trail
Girdwood is home to Winner Creek Trail, a beginner-friendly route in Chugach National Forest. Winner Creek is around three miles long and an excellent spot to hike or bike. The trail leads you through America’s northernmost rainforest, passing lush greenery, gorges, and rivers.
Fort Abercrombie Cliffs Loop
Fort Abercrombie State Historic Park offers many trails, but Cliffs Loop is one of the best. Located near Kodiak, the hike gains over 500 feet in elevation over roughly 2.6 miles. Highlights include forests, meadows, and sea cliffs.
West Glacier Trail
Despite being just 3.5 miles long each way, West Glacier Trail packs quite the punch. This hike skirts around Mendenhall Lake and ends at a scenic viewpoint of the glacier. The rugged trail highlights some of Alaska’s finest glacial landscapes and plant life.
Deer Mountain Trail
Tackling Ketchikan’s iconic Deer Mountain is an unforgettable adventure. The trail is moderately strenuous, rising 2,600 feet in five miles.
It boasts multiple scenic overlooks and streams along the way. The peak should be snow-free during summer and early fall, rewarding you with stunning views.
Mount Ballyhoo
History and animal lovers will enjoy exploring Mount Ballyhoo. Hiking to the top of the over 1,600-foot mountain is challenging as the trail steadily gains elevation.
You’ll encounter unobstructed views of the Bering Sea and several islands from the summit. Lucky hikers may spot a bald eagle soaring overhead or whales from afar.
Horseshoe Lake Trail
Horseshoe Lake Trail is a popular hike in Denali National Park. At just three miles roundtrip, it’s ideal for families and those seeking an easy trail with classic Alaskan scenery. While hiking to the lake, watch for native animals like beavers and bears.
Crow Pass Trail
Challenge yourself with a multi-day trek along Crow Pass Trail. This hike offers everything from glaciers to alpine meadows and old mine ruins.
Since the trail is 21 miles long, it’s best to experience it during a weekend backpacking trip in the summer. Portions of it follow the original Iditarod Trail, an extra treat for history buffs.
Tanalian Mountain Trail
Experienced hikers will savor the unique thrill of conquering Lake Clark National Park’s Tanalian Mountain. The 8-mile hike begins in the forest, though the final mile and a half to the top is above the treeline.
Expect steep and strenuous conditions as you climb Tanalian Mountain. Bring plenty of water and snacks to enjoy as you hike and refuel at the top, where you’ll find panoramic mountain and lake views.
Experience Alaska from the water
Gain a new perspective on Alaska by seeing it from the water. You can explore many waterways throughout the state from the comfort of a cruise ship.
13 Epic Alaskan Cruises to Set Sail on Before Turning 60
Book a guided tour to create lifelong memories
Consider booking a tour for an unforgettable Alaska vacation. Tours are an excellent way to see the state’s most iconic landmarks without the trip-planning stress.
11 Alaska Tours to Consider for Your Next Trip
Elise Armitage is an entrepreneur and founder of What The Fab, a travel + lifestyle blog based in California. At the beginning of 2019, Elise left her corporate job at Google to chase her dreams: being an entrepreneur and helping women find fabulous in the everyday. Since then, she’s launched her SEO course Six-Figure SEO, where she teaches bloggers how to create a passive revenue stream from their website using SEO. Featured in publications like Forbes, Elle, HerMoney, and Real Simple, Elise is a firm believer that you can be of both substance and style.
