Rendezvous Peak Trail in the beautiful Chugach National forest is a popular trail for those who live in the Anchorage area. Just a 25 minute drive from downtown Anchorage, this hike is a stroll up 1,300 feet of elevation. Head out to Rendezvous Peak for endless vistas of the Anchorage Bowl and down to the ocean. The amazing thing is that the view can be seen after a hike of less than two hours. Once you are up in the sky, you just keep chasing peaks along the Chugach mountains. This easy hike is a great for everyone.
Take the scenic Arctic Valley Road seven miles up Rendezvous Peak to the top. You can park in the parking lot to access the trail with a $5 donation to the Alpenglow Ski Resort. The trailhead is at the very end of the road.
The washboard conditions on the drive up Arctic Valley Road can be rough on a low clearance vehicle. Just go slowly and enjoy the view.
The trail from the Arctic Valley side is an easy hike that is 1.5 miles each way, rising 1,300 feet in elevation throughout. The conditions are best from April to September.
The road travels through military land on the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER). You will travel through the Arctic Valley Gate which is open from 0600-2200 (6 AM – 10 PM). Please obey all traffic signs. Be prepared for road closures if the base is on alert.
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The hike starts at tree level and leads you upward to a ridge with a staggering view in less than 2 hours. There are a series of trails to choose from, but it is recommended that hikers stay on the Rendezvous Peak Trail.
Whatever you do, DO NOT approach the military equipment visible from the trail. The area is fenced off and on private military land. They are required to dispatch security and detain those who trespass in this area, so save everyone a headache by sticking to the trail.
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The peak explodes with wildflowers in June and July. There is also an alpine meadow filled with wild Alaskan blueberries in August.
Dogs are allowed on the trail as long as they are kept on leashes. People use the area for hiking, trail running, wildflower identification, and birding.
At 1.5 miles out to the edge, this hike is 3 miles total and most of the way you can see the amazing view. This hike is great for kids or a nature trip with a group.
If you head out in April or May, it is important to know about avalanches and how to determine the risk on any given day. If there is too much snow on the ridge, do not attempt the hike.
The highest peak provides views of the Anchorage Bowl and Cook Inlet, Ship Creek Valley, and South Fork Eagle River. On a clear day, you may even see Denali!
Spend a day in the Chugach Mountains for a refreshing hike on the Rendezvous Peak Trail. You'll love this incredible trail that offers a bird's eye view of the Anchorage Bowl.
