The 15 Best Hikes from All Over the State of Alaska

Few things go better together than hiking and Alaska. (Maybe fish and chips—but it’s a close race!) After all, what better way to take in the state’s wondrous landscapes and thrilling wildlife than on your own two feet?  

Below, you’ll find our list of the best hikes to seek out in Alaska. These can’t-miss adventures range from leisurely to physically intense, so there’s something for everyone. Plus, we scoured the whole state, so you’ll find options in each of Alaska’s five major regions. Before we dive in, a few safety notes to make sure your hike is memorable for all the right reasons. 

Safety Tips for Hiking in Alaska 

1. Share your itinerary and return time with a friend or family member before you head out. 
2. Hiking is safer with a buddy—especially in remote areas.  
3. The weather in Alaska can be unpredictable. Make sure you’ve got a few layers in your pack in case the weather turns. 
4. Encountering bears is a real possibility. Make noise as you hike, including chatting with your buddy. Consider carrying bear spray. 
5. Pack plenty of snacks and water to fuel your hike, plus a little extra, just in case. 

Southcentral Alaska Hikes 

Flattop Mountain Trail 

In some ways, the Flattop Mountain hike is easy. It’s close to downtown Anchorage, there’s plenty of parking, and it’s a convenient place to enjoy the long summer days. However, the trail does get steep, especially at the top. If you do the whole hike, you’re looking at an elevation gain of almost 1,500 feet. Considering the ease of access and the incredible views, we’d say it’s more than worth it.

Crow Pass Trail 

During the time of Alaska’s Gold Rush, if you wanted to travel between Seward and Nome (or any of the mining camps in between), you’d use what’s now called the Iditarod National Historic Trail. In many spots, you’d be following in the footsteps of the  

Tanaina, Inupiaq, Ingalik, and Yupid Eskimo peoples, who used these trails for many years before non-Native arrivals. (Yes, this is the same trail that hosts the famous dog sled race!) 

If you want to get a taste of the trail, check out the Crow Pass trail, which offers 21 miles of scenic mountain views, the remnants of old mining operations, and cascading waterfalls. If camping is your thing, you’ll also find campsites along the way so you can turn this hike into a multi-day adventure. Or, turn Crow Pass into an out-and-back day hike of the length of your choosing. There’s still plenty to see along those first few miles. 

Tony Knowles Coastal Trail 

The serene Tony Knowles Coastal Trail offers gorgeous coastal scenery (and views of Denali!) right from downtown Anchorage. Whether you want to enjoy a stroll, give your pup some exercise, or clock some miles on your bike, all are welcome on this multi-use, paved trail. Keep your eyes peeled! Even though you’re not far from the city, you’ll still have the chance to spot birds, bears, and even moose along the trail. 

If you want to get a taste of the trail, check out the Crow Pass trail, which offers 21 miles of scenic mountain views, the remnants of old mining operations, and cascading waterfalls. If camping is your thing, you’ll also find campsites along the way so you can turn this hike into a multi-day adventure. Or, turn Crow Pass into an out-and-back day hike of the length of your choosing. There’s still plenty to see along those first few miles. 

Harding Icefield Trail 

This bucket-list hike will take you on a tour of a number of different terrains—forests and meadows—until you finally end up at the otherworldly Harding Icefield. This majestic ice field stretches for a whopping 700 square miles, and the terminus of the hike offers spectacular views of this natural wonder. The elevation is challenging—a gain of about 1,000 feet per mile—and you’ll need to allow six to eight hours total for the hike. Sturdy boots are a must, as is a rain shell. In some conditions, you may want gaiters and hiking poles to keep your feet dry and your footing stable. 

Bonanza Mine Trail   

Along with views of the Chugach Mountains, Mount Blackburn, and the Kennicott Glacier, the Bonanza Mine Trail offers yet another interesting sight: the historic buildings at the old Bonanza Mine site, which was closed in 1938. The trail, located in Wrangell–St. Elias National Park & Preserve, takes you through the remains of the copper mining operation—and gives you the chance to imagine what life was like in the early 1900s when the richest copper strike in history was made right in this spot.  

Homer Spit Trail 

While many of the other hikes on this list deliver quiet forays through Alaska’s wilder landscapes, the Homer Spit Trail is a little different. The Spit Trail won’t give you quiet moments to contemplate your existence in silence, but it will give you a salient taste of Homer, Alaska.  

The Homer Spit Trail traces the finger of land that points out into Kachemak Bay. Along the way, you’ll catch glimpses of boats going out for the day, a nice variety of water birds, local businesses offering refreshments and souvenirs, and, finally, the Land’s End Resort and Homer Ferry Terminal, where the spit ends. The spit walk can be a bit touristy, and you’ll be close to the road for much of the walk, so serenity really isn’t in the cards. But if you want to a good taste of Homer, Alaska, there’s nothing better than walking or running the Homer Spit Trail.  

Southwest Hikes 

Bunker Hill Trail 

The Bunker Hill Trail will take you up a gravel road originally constructed during World War II. At the top, you’ll find a concrete bunker, complete with four gun mounts—plus panoramic views of Dutch Harbor and the surrounding area. If you want to take in the area‘s prehistory, flora, and fauna along the way, consider a guided hike through the Museum of the Aleutians. 

Termination Point 

You’ll find hikes all over Kodiak island, but the Termination Point hike stands out for its stunning coastal views and rich potential for wildlife sightings. As a bonus, you can turn this hike into a loop by taking the interior route back to the trailhead. The tree-lined landscape offers a stark contrast to the coastal route. Bears are often spotted in the area, so make sure to brush up on your bear safety before heading out. 

Southeastern Hikes 

Nugget Falls Trail 

The Nugget Falls Trail can be a popular one—and with good reason. It’s an easy, mostly level walk, so kids, older hikers, and those who just aren’t up for a challenging workout can easily manage it. Plus, you’ll enjoy a beautiful waterfall at the end—the perfect payoff. If you want to enjoy a quiet trek, go early. 

Deer Mountain Trail 

On a clear day, the Deer Mountain Trail offers incredible views of Ketchikan and its surrounding alpine ridges. Even on a rainy or foggy day, Deer Mountain can be an otherworldly hike. However, this isn’t a trip for the faint of heart. Snow, rain, uneven surfaces, and water on the trail mean you need to watch your footing carefully. If you’re stopping on a cruise ship in Ketchikan—and you’re up for the challenge—the trail makes for a fun day excursion.  

Make sure you gear up well for the conditions! Sturdy shoes with good traction are a must. Waterproof boots will keep your feet dry. You may also want trekking poles for some extra stability.  

Chilkoot Pass Trail 

The Chilkoot Trail was a major route used by gold prospectors during the Klondike Stampede of 1897-98, and you’ll still find artifacts from that era along the path. Long before that, the trail was a trade route used by the Tlingit and Athabaskan peoples. The 33-mile epic trail is now on the National Register of Historic Places, with nine campgrounds stationed along the way. 

The full Chilkoot Trail crosses the U.S.–Canadian border, although crossing the international border via the trail is currently prohibited. You can still hike on either side. Just be sure to secure a permit if you’re planning to camp overnight on the U.S. side or if you’re day-hiking the Canadian side. If you’re not ready for an epic journey, you can always simply do a few miles and call it a day. Choose your own adventure—and enjoy! 

Far North Alaska Hikes 

Cape Krusenstern National Monument 

As you might expect, getting to any hike in Interior Alaska is half the battle. To access Cape Krusenstern National Monument, you’ll travel either by plane, boat, snowmachine, or even dog sled to access this unspoiled wilderness. You’ll find the landscape of the monument largely unobstructed by trees, offering you picturesque views of the park’s coastal plains, lagoons, and rolling hills.  

There are no facilities at Cape Krusenstern, nor are there trails or campgrounds. This is real, Alaskan wilderness. If you’re an experienced hiker and navigator, this might be the trip of a lifetime to test and strengthen your wilderness skills. For those who are less experienced, private operators guide small-group tours.  

Interior Alaska Hikes 

In interior Alaska, you’ll find some hikes in and around both Fairbanks and North Pole—but the real jewel of the Interior is Denali National Park & Preserve. Below, we’ve highlighted three of our favorites within the park. 

Note: If you’ve got your dogs with you, dogs are welcome in the park. However, they aren’t permitted on park trails or off-trail. They have to stay on the Roadside Trail and the Bike Path, and they need to be leashed at all times. 

Mount Healy Overlook Trail 

Great views can make a challenging hike more than worth it. That’s the case with the Mount Healy Overlook Trail, which offers gorgeous vistas year-round, including panoramic vistas of the park as well as glimpses of Denali when it’s clear.  

Note: With an elevation gain of almost 2,500 feet, you’ll want to dress in layers so you can adjust for any temperature changes as you ascend and descend.  

Horseshoe Lake Trail 

If you’re pressed for time—or you just want to get maximum bang for your buck—this is the trail to try. This loop will wind you around a picturesque lake, with plenty of wildlife sightings along the way, including birds and beavers. Finally, with barely any elevation gain, this is a great hike for kids or those who aren’t up for a challenging hike. 

Eielson Alpine Trail / Thorofare Ridge Trail 

Formerly called the Eielson Alpine Trail, the Thorofare Ridge Trail is short, steep hike offers impressive views of Mt. Denali on a clear day—a spectacular sight that’s well worth the trek. To get to this hike, you’ll need to take the shuttle bus to the Eielson Visitor Center. You’ll find the trailhead just across the road. 

Experiencing Alaska by Foot 

Alaska’s bewitching natural beauty has convinced many to up and move to the state. By spending your days hiking, you’ll have the opportunity to form an up-close-and-personal relationship with Alaska’s incredible scenery, spot its magnificent wildlife, and either get some serenity or a great workout in the process—or both! 

If you’re moving to Alaska to explore the state’s stunning landscapes, we’d be happy to help you make a safe, easy, and affordable move to the Last Frontier. Just reach out to our team for a complimentary quote. We can move you anywhere in the state—even remote locations.