This Hike In Alaska Will Give You An Unforgettable Experience
By Casea Peterson|Published February 12, 2016
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Casea Peterson
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Casea Peterson grew up archery hunting, fishing, and camping throughout the Pacific Northwest. Motivated by her love for the outdoors she moved to Alaska to attend school and to spend time exploring the last frontier. If she doesn’t have a pen in hand or her nose in a book, she can be found out on a lake or up in the woods around a fire with friends.
Crow Pass National Historic Trail covers the expanse between Eagle River and Girdwood in Chugach State Park. The trail, depending on which end you start at, is easy to difficult and 21 miles across. If you approach the summit from the Crow Creek Trailhead in Girdwood you gain 2,100 feet, but if you begin your trip from the Eagle River Nature Center your elevation gain is a whopping 3,100 feet! The trip generally takes one to two days and camping is only allowed in designated campsites over 1/2 mile from either trailhead, or up to ten days in undeveloped areas.
Crow Pass National Historic Trail is filled with breathtaking views and amazing scenery. Depending on the time of year, you will come face to face with a wide range of challenges that will test your inner mountaineer. Find out more about this one-of-a-kind hike below!
The Crow Pass National Historic Trail actually follows the old Iditarod supply route that ran from one side of the pass to the other. The trail is easily accessible because of it's two convenient trailhead locations, which makes it sort of a rite of passage for many Alaskans in the area.
I would recommend hiking the trail from Crow Creek Trailhead in Girdwood to the Eagle River Nature Center because the final decent will take your breath away.
You'll have to make a crossing at Eagle River, which, depending on the time of year, can be very tricky and dangerous. Hypothermia is no joke and if the sun's out there is a good chance the river will be flowing higher than usual. Make sure you're experienced in river crossing and that your pack is unclipped in case you need to ditch it in the event of a fall. And PLEASE, only cross at the marked areas!
After you cross Eagle River you will be walking the rest of the way through the forest of the Eagle River Nature Center. Please keep a close eye out for bear and moose as they are sighted quite often around the area. After all, it is their home.
On your hike you'll be greeted with dramatic views of the Chugach Mountain Range from beginning to end. Whether you go during the winter or the spring, you'll see some of the most incredible panoramic views.
Along with rivers, glacial lakes, and mountainous views, you'll also encounter waterfalls, wildlife, flowers, and LOTS of berries! Get ready to have some stained fingertips you guys.
Raven Glacier is one of the majestic sights you will see along your trip, but be sure to pack warm clothes since the weather changes dramatically as you near the glacier.
