Slaughter Gulch Via Juneau Trail Is A Challenging Hike In Alaska That Will Make Your Stomach Drop
By Katie Lawrence|Published August 25, 2020
×
Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
While easy hikes are ideal for a spontaneous afternoon stroll, nothing beats the feeling of accomplishment that comes from successfully completing an arduous trek. Slaughter Gulch Via Juneau Trail might only be five miles long, but its ascent is near-vertical at times and promises to make your stomach drop. The greatest challenges often lead to the best rewards, however, and this difficult hike boasts some of the best views in Alaska.
If you're looking for a difficult hike that won't tie up your whole day, Slaughter Gulch Via Juneau Trail is an ideal choice. At five miles long, this out-and-back trail features incredible scenery and promises to get your heart pounding.
An elevation gain of just under 2,600 feet leads through the enchanting Chugach National Forest landscape before opening up to gorgeous views of the Kenai River. Many times along the trail, you'll think you've reach the summit...only to look ahead and see the ascent continue.
In addition to the river, a pristine waterfall surrounded by moss-covered rock ledges will take your breath away. This is a perfect spot to take a break and stretch your legs while listening to the rhythmic trickle of the cascade.
Upon reaching the peak, your reward is a sweeping panoramic vista that rivals Alaska's most popular destinations. The stream boasts a more striking turquoise hue than the Caribbean, which offers a beautiful contrast against the lush greenery surrounding it.
Eye-popping wildflowers in the warmer months add even more variety to the hike. Stop and smell the roses whenever possible, as near-vertical rock scrambles in some places guarantee your thigh muscles will be feeling the burn. Trekking poles are a great asset on this trail.
Things look a little different once winter rolls around, but in a great way. Onyx mountain peaks are covered with snow, making for a quintessentially Alaska scene sure to leave you awestruck.
On days when the clouds are low, a thick layer of fog swirls around the mountaintops. This hauntingly beautiful sight just may be one of the best views Cooper's Landing has to offer.
