The One Loop Trail In Alaska That's Perfect For A Short Day Hike, No Matter What Time Of Year
By Megan McDonald|Published February 21, 2022
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Megan McDonald
Author
Megan McDonald is a writer, photographer, and owner of humu media, an Alaska-based digital media agency. She spends her free time traveling with her husband and daughter around the US and the world.
If you’re looking for a great, easy loop trail in Alaska that you can do no matter the time of year, you need to head straight to the Eagle River Nature Center. This loop trail is a fun hike that the whole family will love. With show-stopping views along the way and a trip all the way to Eagle River, this trail should be at the top of your list the next time you’re looking for a short day hike.
Alaska is well known for its incredible landscape.
The largest state in the country, the Last Frontier has a lot to offer. And many people from the Lower 48 may not know this, but we hike all year long. In fact, some of the best hiking to be done is in the wintertime!
During the summer, every trail in our state is pretty much guaranteed to be open, barring high levels of wildlife activity or a rockslide.
But Alaskans who like to hike want to do it every season, and we think the Albert Loop at the Eagle River Nature Center is a great hike to do in the wind, rain, and snow.
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This easy loop hike is only 3.3 miles long, and it heads all the way down to Eagle River.
There are a lot of fun features along the way, including boardwalks, and stunning views of the surrounding mountainside. You’ll be soaking up all of the great outdoor scenery along the way.
The path is clear and easy to follow, even in snowy conditions. If the weather has been a little warmer, make sure to bring your ice cleats in case it gets slippery. If you make it down after a fresh snowfall, hiking it in snowshoes would be a lot of fun!
The trail is known for high bear activity in the summertime, so why not hike it during the colder months?
You’ll get a chance to see something that not many other people get to enjoy. Snow-capped mountains and frozen trees offer something really special all year long.
Spring, summer, autumn, or winter, this hike will deliver.
Whether you’re out here watching for the changing leaves, admiring the wildlife, or just marveling at the scenery that Alaska has to offer, this hike is perfect for a day trip with the family.
Parking fees are $5.00 per car, or you can purchase an annual pass if you think you’ll be back again.
The trail is well-loved all year long, with something great to see no matter the season. Come in the wintertime and be pleasantly surprised at the views and well-kept trails!
Have you ever hiked this easy loop trail in Alaska? What did you think? What time of year did you hike it? Let us know in the comments below!
