Alaska is a hiker’s paradise, and if you’re staying in Anchorage, you don’t have to venture far to find some of our state’s most breathtaking trails. Whether you’re looking for a quick, scenic stroll or a challenging summit climb, the stunning landscapes surrounding our city — including the majestic Chugach Mountains — offer a variety of hikes suited for all skill levels.
And between all those breathtaking hikes, you can count on Alaskan Sights & Bites to immerse you in our city’s diverse culture, fascinating history, and mouthwatering food scene on our guided Anchorage tours. Browse our full range to find out more about the tasty experiences waiting for you — and please just get in touch if you have any questions.
For now, though, let’s get started on our picks for the best hikes near Anchorage that promise stunning views and an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Best In-Town Hikes for Beginners in Anchorage
We understand that not everyone visiting Anchorage has the desire or time to hit trails out of town. But that doesn’t mean you should miss out on hiking through our state’s beautiful natural scenery. So, let’s start our picks with two of our favorite spots for comfortable hikes that are easily accessible from downtown Anchorage.
Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
Distance: Up to 11 miles one way
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated Time: 1 to 4 hours (depending on distance)
For an easy and scenic in-town hike, the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is a fantastic choice. This paved trail follows the coastline from downtown Anchorage to Kincaid Park, offering stunning views of Cook Inlet, the Alaska Range, and even the occasional moose or bald eagle. Walk as little or as much as you like — this trail is perfect for a leisurely hike with plenty of photo opportunities.
Kincaid Park Trails
Distance: Varies (many loops and routes available)
Elevation Gain: Varies
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Estimated Time: 1 to 3 hours
Kincaid Park is a great spot for beginners looking to experience Alaska’s wilderness without leaving the city. The park features miles of forested trails, rolling hills, and even a sand dune with views of Denali on clear days. Wildlife is abundant, so keep an eye out for moose and bears while enjoying the peaceful scenery.
Rendezvous Peak
Distance: 3.3 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,397 feet
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Estimated Time: 2 to 3 hours
If you’re looking for a relatively easy yet rewarding hike, Rendezvous Peak is a fantastic choice. Located in Arctic Valley in Chugach State Park, just a short, scenic drive from Anchorage, this loop trail offers panoramic views of the city, Cook Inlet, and the surrounding mountains. You can even see the distant Denali on a clear day.
The gradual incline makes Rendezvous Peak accessible for hikers of most skill levels, however, some less experienced hikers may find it challenging — and it’s generally not suitable for people with mobility issues. During the summer months, the meadows bloom with vibrant wildflowers. Colorful berries are bountiful here in late August too, making the area a favorite picking spot for locals. Some of these flavorful berries are key ingredients in the best Alaskan desserts!
This is a great trail for a quick outing with a big payoff at the summit. But please note that the hike is above the tree line, so you will be exposed to the elements. Be sure to bring sunscreen, bug spray, and an appropriate amount of water to stay hydrated.
Little O’Malley Peak
Distance: 5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,600 Feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Estimated Time: 3 to 4 hours
For those seeking a more strenuous hike, Little O’Malley Peak in Chugach State Park delivers a serious challenge, so it is best suited for experienced hikers with a high level of fitness. Having said that, you don’t need to be a mountaineer to reach the summit. The hike begins at the Glen Alps Trailhead and follows the Powerline Pass before ascending steep slopes to the summit. Some sections have loose gravel on the trail, but conditions are never dangerous. Think of it more as laborious in a satisfying way!
The effort is well worth it — hikers are rewarded with jaw-dropping views of the Chugach Range and beyond. Little O’Malley Peak is visible from Anchorage; when you look at the Front Range that rises above Anchorage, it’s just below the most prominent peak (O’Malley Peak). The sense of accomplishment you feel as you go about your day visiting Anchorage’s best attractions knowing that you have reached such heights is seriously fulfilling!
If you’re curious about O’Malley Peak itself, it is not generally recommended for tourists as the steep scree sections near the top can be especially dangerous. Only very experienced hikers should consider taking on this challenge.
Flattop Mountain at Glen Alps
Distance: 3.3 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Estimated Time: 2 to 3 hours
Flattop Mountain is Anchorage’s and Alaska’s most popular hike, and for good reason. The trail is relatively short but includes a steep climb to the summit, where you’ll find one of the best panoramic views of the city, Turnagain Arm, and even Denali on a clear day.
But don’t mistake Flattop’s popularity for an easy ride. The 3.3-mile loop trail gains around 1,500ft of elevation and the terrain can be challenging for less experienced hikers. The difficulty ramps up after the second saddle and peaks during the last half hour (depending on fitness level) of the ascent, which also includes some scrambling. But here’s a local tip that could help — the back side alternative route has switchbacks for an easier climb.
If you’re not up for the full hike, you can still enjoy great views from the Blueberry Loop Trail at the base.
Williwaw Lakes
Distance: 10.2 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Estimated Time: 5 to 7 hours
For those who love alpine lakes, the Williwaw Lakes Trail is a must-do. This scenic hike starts from the Prospect Heights Trailhead and winds through valleys, streams, and meadows before reaching the numerous Williwaw Lakes clustered below the north face of the Front Range’s highest peak — Mount Williwaw.
The trail is long but not overly steep. In fact, you have to walk three miles from the Prospect Heights parking area to reach the official start of the Williwaw Lakes Trail. But the relatively flat terrain and beautiful Alaskan scenery make the journey a joy.
Read our blog What are Some Little-Known Facts About Anchorage, AK? and arm yourself with some information to impress your fellow hikers with!
Eagle River Nature Center
Distance: Varies (1 to 25 miles)
Elevation Gain: Varies
Difficulty: Easy to Hard
Estimated Time: 30 minutes to multiple days
Please note: This hike is known for bears.
The Eagle River Nature Center offers a variety of hiking options, from easy strolls along the Rodak Trail to challenging multi-day treks on the Crow Pass Trail. This area is known for its rich wildlife, including bears, beavers, and eagles, and its spectacular landscapes. The Albert Loop Trail (three miles) is a great option for families looking for an easy yet scenic hike with views of the river and surrounding forest.
Head to the Eagle River Nature Center website to find out more about the hiking options on offer. Choose your length and prepare to start exploring what some refer to as the “miniature Yosemite”.
A local tip — there are plenty of hungry mosquitoes here, so be sure to bring your bug spray (along with your bear spray)!
Pro tip: South Fork Falls (Barbara Falls) is near Eagle River but is a shorter hike with better falls. It’s an easy 1.3-mile trail that most people can complete in between 30 minutes to one hour.
Thunderbird Falls
Distance: 1.8 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 200 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
For a quick and family-friendly hike, Thunderbird Falls is an excellent choice. Located just outside Anchorage, this short trail leads to a beautiful 200-foot waterfall. The path is well-maintained and mostly flat, making it accessible for hikers of all ages. There’s also an overlook along the way, providing a great spot for photos.
The terrain here is suitable for inexperienced hikers, so you can expect handrails and boardwalks. Still, the trail can get muddy, so bring hiking shoes/boots to ensure you’re comfortable. And again, bring your bug spray! There are mosquitoes looking to keep you company here too.
If you are traveling with little ones, we think you’ll love our Guide to Planning an Alaskan Family Vacation. It’s filled with local insights to help make your trip to Alaska even more memorable!
Bird Ridge
Distance: 4.6 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 3,400 feet
Difficulty: Hard
Estimated Time: 4 to 6 hours
Bird Ridge is one of the most challenging hikes in and around Anchorage, but the views make it worth every step. The steep ascent offers breathtaking sights of Turnagain Arm and the surrounding peaks. This hike is best suited for those who enjoy a good workout and don’t mind a bit of a scramble. The trail can be slick when wet, so sturdy footwear is a must.
This three-mile route doesn’t ease you in. The first three miles are tough — it’s all up, up, up! The climb is quick and steep, but the reward for all that uphill is one of the best views of the Chugach Mountains and Turnagain Arm you can find.
Crow Pass
Distance: 21 miles point-to-point (shorter day hikes possible)
Elevation Gain: 2,200 feet
Difficulty: Hard
Estimated Time: 10-12 hours (for the full trek)
If you’re up for a long-distance adventure, the Crow Pass Trail is an iconic Alaskan hike. Starting from the Girdwood side, this trail follows historic Iditarod routes, passing glaciers, waterfalls, and mining ruins. It also includes a river crossing that can be intimidating when the water is high. Many hikers choose to do an out-and-back hike to Crow Pass itself (about eight miles round trip), which offers stunning alpine scenery without committing to the full trek.
The full Crow Pass experience is a 26-mile point-to-point trail. It’s one of the more accessible high-mountain hikes in the Anchorage area and the trail is well-maintained. And while the ascent may seem daunting, especially to less experienced hikers, it’s a gradual incline with awe-inspiring scenery. Crow Pass Trail is best suited to very experienced hikers looking for a challenge!
For a more relaxed visit to Girdwood, look no further than our Half-Day Anchorage Wildlife Tour with Lunch. Not only does it include incredible wildlife encounters, but it also features a culinary and beer-sampling experience in this picturesque town 40 miles from Anchorage.
Winner Creek
Distance: 6.4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 850 feet
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Estimated Time: 2 to 4 hours
Another amazing trail in Girdwood, Winner Creek is one of the best hikes for visitors looking to experience Alaska’s lush rainforest. The trail features wooden boardwalks and a beautiful gorge with rushing blue waters. It’s a fantastic hike for families and those looking for a scenic, relaxing outing without too much elevation gain.
The route is relatively easygoing and follows a wide, well-developed trail with only a steady incline. This trail is a great way to explore the wonders of the US’s northernmost rainforest.
Hiking in Alaska: Essential Safety Tips
Alaska’s wilderness is stunning but demands respect and proper preparation. When hiking here, always carry bear spray and know how to use it. Hike in groups whenever possible and make noise to avoid surprising wildlife. Weather can change rapidly, so dress in layers and bring rain gear. Carry enough food and water, and always let someone know your itinerary before heading out.
Navigation tools like maps, a compass, or a GPS are essential, as cell service is unreliable in many areas. Be mindful of tides if hiking near the coast, and be prepared for stream crossings on some trails. Pack a basic first-aid kit, and if hiking in remote areas, consider carrying a satellite communicator. Respect nature, pack out all trash, and follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve Alaska’s beauty for future hikers.
And, just as importantly, enjoy your adventure!
Book Your Spot on Our Guided Anchorage Tours!
We hope you’ve found our picks for the best places to hike in Alaska inspiring and informative in equal measure! Between your outdoor adventures, get to know the place we call home even better with our guided Anchorage tours. Our experiences allow you to connect with all the aspects that make our city so unique. Check out our full range and find the perfect fit for you!
If you have any pre-booking questions, please feel free to get in touch for the answers you need. We’re here to help however we can!
