Anchorage, Alaska-hiking-areas

Best Hiking Areas in Anchorage, Alaska

Anchorage, Alaska is a hiker’s paradise, with its stunning natural beauty and easy access to wilderness trails. From scenic mountain vistas to lush forests and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, there’s something for every type of hiker in this beautiful city.

1. Flattop Mountain Trail

  • Distance: 3 miles round-trip
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Features: Panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including a stunning view of Cook Inlet and the Chugach Mountains

This popular trail is a must-hike for anyone visiting Anchorage. The well-marked path takes you from the base to the summit of Flattop Mountain in just under 3 miles. On a clear day, the views are simply breathtaking.

2. Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

  • Distance: 11 miles one-way (extendable)
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate
  • Features: Stunning coastal scenery, including beaches, tidal pools, and views of surrounding mountains

This scenic trail hugs the coastline and offers stunning views of the Cook Inlet and surrounding mountains. The trail is wide and well-marked, making it accessible to hikers of all ages and abilities.

3. Campbell Creek Trail

  • Distance: 10 miles one-way (extendable)
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Features: Beautiful forest scenery, including old-growth trees and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities

This trail follows the banks of Campbell Creek through a beautiful stretch of old-growth forest. The creek is home to salmon runs in the summer, making this a great spot for spotting fish.

4. Hilltop Ski Area Trails

  • Distance: Various distances (shortest trail: 1 mile)
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate
  • Features: Scenic mountain views, including vistas of Anchorage and Cook Inlet

After the ski season ends, the trails at Hilltop Ski Area open up for hiking. The trails range from easy to moderate in difficulty and offer stunning views of Anchorage and the surrounding mountains.

5. McHugh Creek Trail

  • Distance: 3 miles round-trip
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Features: Beautiful mountain scenery, including a stunning waterfall

This short but scenic trail leads through a beautiful stretch of old-growth forest to a stunning waterfall. The views are breathtaking, and the hike is accessible to hikers of all ages and abilities.

No matter which trail you choose, be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and bear spray (just in case!). With its stunning natural beauty and easy access to wilderness trails, Anchorage has something for every type of hiker.