Alaska has quite a large amount of fantastic hiking trails. With all different lengths and skill levels, it’s easy to find the perfect trail for you. The following trail may be moderate in skill, but it’s short and sweet, with a panorama you can feast your eyes on while you rest at the top. We love that this is a compact family-friendly trail and that it ends with a killer view. This is truly the perfect short spring hike in Alaska.

This gorgeous little hike is called the Botenburg Butte.
Amanda Meagher/AllTrails
The Butte is located right outside of Palmer, Alaska. It's actually located on private land, so make sure to pay the parking fee at the start of the trailhead out of respect for the owners who keep it open to hikers.
There are two trails up this butte. One a harder, more strenuous trail, and one slightly easier.
Geoffrey Lytwyn / AllTrails
The "easier" side begins at the paved parking lot. It's about a mile of moderate switchbacks. The trail is wide and can be muddy during early spring.
The harder trail is much shorter, around .7 miles long.
Dedra C/ AllTrails
But it's very steep! There are stairs put into the side of the butte for better traction. This is nice as it feels as though you're ascending a staircase the entire time!

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At least the harder side is a much shorter climb.
Breck Tuttle / AllTrails
It does, however, scramble over some very rocky areas, so those carrying small children should be aware if they take this side. You can also hike up one side and descend down the other; there's a small bike path about 2.5 miles long that will loop you to either parking area.
Regardless of which path you take, when you start to reach the top, the whole valley opens up for you!
Geoffrey Lytwyn / AllTrails
You can see across the entire Matanuska-Susitna Valley! The Talkeetnas are in the distance, as well as the Cook Inlet and Knik River.
The most impressive sight, however, is the majestic Pioneer Peak. It looms in the distance over many local farms!
Amanda campbell / AllTrails
You can find the trailhead for this awesome hike at Bodenburg Loop, Palmer, AK. There is a small fee to park at the paved parking lot at the start of the trailhead, but it is well worth it for these stunning views!

Have you hiked the Bodenburg Butte? What did you think? Do you have another short spring hike in Alaska you’d like us to feature? Let us know in the comments. You can also learn more about this hike on AllTrails. And, make sure to check out AllTrails+ for features to take your hiking to the next level.

You may also want to check out our ultimate hiking packing list, featuring 75 must-have hiking accessories.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Spring Hikes In Alaska

Courtnie Erickson | March 25, 2024

What are some other spring hikes in Alaska?

There is nothing quite like the spring in Alaska. And while we could list all types of activities to keep you busy during this delightful time of the year, there is nothing like heading on a hike. While the above hike is one that we love to recommend, there are many more that deserve a spot on your bucket list. Some of the best hikes in Alaska include:

 

What are some other spring activities in Alaska?

Are you searching for even more things to do during the spring in Alaska? We have you covered! We created a comprehensive list featuring several of our favorite spring activities in Alaska. Some of the items on the list include:

  • Visiting Kodiak Island to view wildflowers
  • Explore the Alaska Botanical Garden in Anchorage
  • Become mesmerized at Kenai Fjords National Park
  • Observe wildlife at Denali National Park
  • Learn at the Anchorage Museum

 

What are some natural wonders in Alaska I should see?

Alaska is home to countless natural wonders. Here, you’ll find everything from beaches to glaciers. However, some of my favorite natural wonders in Alaska include:

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Bodenburg Butte, Butte, AK 99645, USA