If you’re looking for an easy hike in Alaska, then you need to drive just 30 minutes outside of Anchorage, to some of the most amazing scenery in Alaska. There is just something indescribable about the feeling that takes over your body when you hit the trail with excitement and leave the rush of the outside world behind you. Taking your first step into the Chugach National Forest is truly a movement in Alaska. It’s one of those ‘life events’ that show up on your Facebook timeline. It’s something that should be celebrated. Because after your first step, you will develop an addiction to the great outdoors like you’ve never experienced before. The want, no scratch that – the need to get back into the Chugach after that first step will take over your mind. It will consume your every thought.

On Monday morning you will be dreaming about the weekend and on Friday night you will be ready to rock and roll when the clock strikes 5 p.m. and your “weekend warrior” status has officially ignited. From hardcore treks and backpacking adventures to easy, breezy, beautiful hikes that pack a mean punch – the Chugach has something for everyone. This particular hike is no exception to that rule. It is easy to complete yet you will be captivated by all the unique features that you will experience along the way. Happy trails and safe travels out there, adventure hounds!

Flickr - Jennifer Pack
The trail head is clearly marked and easily accessible in the charming and quirky "ski town" of Girdwood. Located about 45 minutes from Alaska's largest city of Anchorage, Lower Winner Creek trail is one of the most popular hikes throughout the entire last frontier.
Flickr - Atomische Tom Giebel
This easy three mile hike is very well traveled and well maintained. For being so short, it packs a sweet dose of awe-inspiring beauty and truly unique features. It’s also easy enough to be one of the great kid-friendly hikes in Alaska.
Flickr - Jennifer Pack
It is a great trail just about anyone and everyone. From athletic outdoors-men and women who want to get in a good run, photographers, nature lovers, to families with tiny tots and new editions. It’s accessibility makes this one of the best hiking trails in Alaska.
Flickr - Frank Kovalchek
This trail in the Chugach National Forest is mostly flat and winding starting behind the Alyeska Tram building and ending at Crow Creek Road. The terrain is easy to cover with lots of areas to sit down and cool off in the shade. There well-developed boardwalk through some of the trail that makes it easy to navigate without getting lost or turned around at any given time. Alaska trails aren’t always this nicely maintained, and it’s wonderful to have a clear path to follow.
Flickr - Jennifer Pack
Being the northernmost rainforest in North America (often times refereed to as a sub-polar rainforest), those that embark on this easy trek aren't generally surprised by the dense woods and spectacular smells of sitka spruce, western hemlock and mountain hemlock.
Flickr - Jennifer Pack
One of the more surprising parts about this short trail is the unbelievable mountain views that peak out and light up your eyes and you make your way through the winding trail. Bluebird skies and snow-capped mountains in the distance make for an epic hiking experience in Alaska.
Flickr - Frank Kovalchek
A variety of mushrooms with vibrant colors and oddly unique formations can be found throughout the trail. And yes, many are worthy of a photo! It's just not everyday that you experience such wicked natural beauty.

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Flickr - Atomische Tom Giebel
One of the first delights that you will experience is the 15 foot wide Winner Creek Gorge. Easy to cross with the wooden bridge that is in place, afterwards you will had down towards the plunging gorge.
Flickr - Frank Kovalchek
The gorge itself is a photographers paradise. The fast moving water wedged in between the narrow rock formations is utterly breathtaking. This is a great place to stop and replenish your thirst or grab a quick snack while taking in the stunning beauty. Even though this is an easy hike in Alaska, the payoff is absolutely stunning.
Flickr - Atomische Tom Giebel
Just a hop, skip and jump up the trail further is the Hand Tram. Now this is what truly makes this short hike so memorable. You will get into a metal cage and literally pull yourself across. It might sound a little crazy, but it is completely safe and well maintained. But you certainly have to have an adventurous spirit to have the courage to make the trek across.
Flickr - Melanie Chiavatti
An adrenaline rush is the only way to describe how you will feel when pulling yourself across the Hand Tram in the metal box. Be sure to be safe and respectful of anyone that's waiting in line behind you, but don't forget to take a photo along the way (for bragging rights, you know)!
Flickr - Melanie Chiavatti
Below you very well might see people kayaking and whitewater rafters plunging through the rapids of Glacier Creek. It is one of the most spectacular sights to behold and it will truly leave you falling even more in love with the great outdoors than you ever imagined possible.
Flickr - Frank Kovalchek
From the Hand Tram you will make your way up to Crow Creek Road. Go just a little further and check out the mine. Along the way be sure to be on the lookout for massive burls on the sides of trees. These large knots on the sides of trees are technically considered a grain deformity. However when someone decorates a smiley face into one, it's hard to fight the urge for an impromptu photo-op to capture the moment. Perfectly "Girdwood" if you ask us!
Flickr - Eric Teela

Have you ever taken this incredible easy hike in Alaska? We’d love to see your photos and hear about your adventures in the Facebook comments! Let us know if you recommend any other “must take” easy hikes in Alaska this summer.

When you’re finished with your hike you’re going to be starving, so make sure to check out why you need to Eat Your Way Through This One Tiny Town In Alaska.

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easy hike in alaska

Megan McDonald | September 24, 2020

What is the best season to hike in Alaska?

All of the seasons offer something special when you’re hiking in Alaska. Spring time is wonderful to see to see the leaves budding and animals coming out of hibernation. The temperatures start to warm up, and you get a taste of what summer will bring. Summer is filled with warmer temperatures, tons of wildlife spotting, and 24 hours of daylight to hike to your heart’s content. Fall offers crisp air and beautiful colors, and a reduction in the chances of running into a bear during your hike. Winter requires more gear and preparation, but you feel like the only person in the world. The alpenglow on your hikes will blow you away, and the winter sunshine will lift your spirits.

Is there a lot of great hiking in Alaska?

There is an unbelievable amount of fantastic hiking. Alaska has more than 750 named trails throughout the state, not including the huge amount of backcountry you can visit on your own. Alaska is actually almost entirely backcountry, as the size of our state is enormous and the road system limited. You can make your own path through some of the most spellbinding spots in the world.

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Featured Addresses
Winner Creek Gorge Trail Head (Lower Winner Creek Trail), 601 Crow Creek Rd, Girdwood, AK 99587, USA