Follow this trail into the sky for an epically beautiful bird’s eye view in the Chugach State Park. Bird Ridge Trail is a vigorous adventure into the mountains of the Chugach State Park. Head up the ridge and follow along the top for truly amazing views, a great workout, and a day in the fresh Alaskan mountain air. As this is one of the first trails to be ready for action, hike in the early summer to see wildflowers carpet the hillsides. You’ll love this gorgeous trail in the Chugach State Park, and the bird’s eye view of Alaska’s beauty from the top.
Bird Ridge Trail heads up the ridge from the base for about 1.5 miles of vigorous hiking to reach the ridge. This is a more challenging trail but is also well-marked, well-traveled and popular with local residents.
The hike heads up the ridge to more than 3000 feet for a perfect bird's eye view of the Chugach State Park. The trail is utilized for trail running and hiking, and dogs are permitted.
Once on the top of the ridge, you can conquer as many of the peaks as you like. If you make it all the way to the end, the full hike is around 6 miles round-trip. There are many places to stop and rest, taking in the amazing views.
The exposed nature of this sunny trail means it's one of the first to be snow-free in the spring and first to be dressed in wildflowers. This also means there is little protection from sun or the winds that can whip up.
Make sure to bring snacks, a windbreaker, warm clothes in case of a sudden storm, bug spray, and a camera to capture these incredible vistas. There are bears in the area, so make lots of noise along the hike.
One of the four largest state parks in the United States, the Chugach State Park spans approximately 495,000 acres of land. Chugach [pronounced CHEW-gatch] is the tribal name for the indigenous people who once inhabited the area.
The Turnagain Arm and the Kenai Mountains spread before you as you stand on the ridge. The trail is best for use from April to November, although it will be snowy at the top in the fall and spring.
There is a campground at Bird Creek if you want to take your time and spend the night in this beautiful locale. Bird Ridge Trail is quite popular, so starting at the crack of dawn may provide you a more peaceful hiking experience.
Take the Bird Ridge Trail or any of the other fabulous trails in the Chugach State Park to experience the glory of Alaska this summer. From the top of these staggering Alaskan mountains, the bird's eye view is simply divine.
