This is one of the most classic trails in the Anchorage area. Many hikers put this on their bucket list, and for good reason! The Crow Pass Trail is one of the most stunning and challenging hikes in the area. Winding its way from Girdwood to Eagle River, the pass takes you through some of the most amazing scenery Alaska has to offer.
The Crow Pass Trail is a visually captivating 22 mile hike through one of the most gorgeous mountain ranges in Alaska, the Chugach Mountain Range.
This trail isn’t for the faint of heart, but for those that want a more relaxed pace, the hike can be broken up into two days. The elevation gain sits at about 3,290 feet total.
The trail is developed in some areas, and completely disappears in others.
Expect to ford rivers, which can be up to waist high, very cold, and powerful. There are also sections of rock scree, which is easy to trip over if you’re not cautious.
Raven Glacier is a stunning highlight on this trail, and hikers wanting a shorter hike sometimes turn around here and head back to the Girdwood trailhead.
Be mindful of the weather, as it can change quickly! Make sure you pack layers of clothes and safety gear, as the backcountry of Alaska can be temperamental.
Many hikers decide to make this trail a more leisurely two-day event.
There is an A-Frame cabin run by the Forest Service about 500 yards off the edge of the trail. It’s $75.00 a night and immensely popular, so make sure to book your dates in advance!
One thing you can absolutely look forward to is the views.
Regardless of the weather, the views will stun you at every turn. There is a beautiful lake, Crystal Lake, that you will pass by. There is also a countless amount of wildlife for you to spot, including mountain goats, moose, and bear.
The Crow Pass Trail is a National Historic Trail.
It was actually one section of the original Iditarod trail! When you think about the mushers growing through this pass is daunting, and truly makes you appreciate what they did.
You can start the trail in Eagle River or Girdwood, although starting in Girdwood is recommended, as the hike in from Eagle River is much harder.
The Girdwood Trailhead is at this Address: Mile 115, Seward Highway, Chugach State Park, Anchorage, AK. You can find the Eagle River Trailhead at the Eagle River Nature Center, at their Address: 32750 Eagle River Road, Eagle River, Alaska, 99577.
Have you hiked the Crow Pass Trail? What did you think? Was it one of your favorites in Alaska? Let us know in the comments below!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.