Hiking near Palmer, AK

If there's one thing Alaska offers, it's the best hiking in the world. With rocky mountain ranges stretching across the horizon, glaciers, waterfalls, and lookouts as a destination, and an innumerable amount of trails to explore, Hatcher Pass is the perfect place for any amateur explorer.

With so many trail options, it can be difficult to know where to go, or which trails will be appropriate for your party. Thankfully, our mini-guide will delve into some of our favorite hikes in the pass, explaining why you should go on each one. Keep in mind that most of the hikes in this mountainous keep are difficult, so the easy hikes are closer to Palmer, Alaska.

Our Alaskan Dream's central location is perfect for any type of hiker, so keep that in mind if you're interested in a vacation to the Last Frontier.

Easy Hikes

These trails are perfect for the casual hiker who just wants to see some cool sights without too much strain.

Crevasse Moraine Trail
Distance: 9.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 1158 feet

A short trail to the west of Palmer. Perfectly manicured and easy to follow.

Gold Cord Lake Trail
Distance: 1.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 482 feet

Incredibly light and easy trail that is fun for the whole family.

Moderate Level Hikes

If you want a little bit of a challenge as a casual hiker, or if you're taking a breather between expeditions as a pro, these hikes are a no-brainer.

Skyscraper Mountain
Distance: 2 miles
Elevation Gain: 1000 feet

This hike will guide you to a mountain peak with an excellent panoramic view. A perfect moderate hike for those easing into more difficult paths.

Gold Mint Trail
Distance: 6.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 754 feet

This trail is a straight shot through some forests and mountains. Amazing scenery garnishes the sides of your path.

April Bowl Trail
Distance: 2.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 856 feet

This hike features a lake at its base. As you climb the mountain, you'll get a broader view of the waters.

Difficult Hikes

These hikes are not for the faint of heart. Seasoned backpackers or passionate trailmasters will love these paths, but casual fans might not want to dedicate too much time here.

Lazy Mountain Trail
Distance: 5.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 3008 feet

Despite the name, this hike has the highest elevation gain rate out of any other hike listed. Many uphill sections, so be prepared to stop every so often.

Reed Lakes Trail
Distance: 8.7 miles
Elevation Gain: 2247 feet

This trail has a steep elevation gain, but features a beautiful lake at its end. There are a few boulder fields in the middle of the mountains, so expect rough terrain.

Bomber Glacier
Distance: 12 miles
Elevation Gain: 3713 feet

In this hike, you'll walk through a valley with freshwater resources. Be prepared to boulder hop and walk across the glacier itself. Bring microspikes and poles to cross it.

Microdot
Distance: 2.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 1256 feet

This is the shortest hike of the difficult ones. The trail is a little unclear, so be aware of your surroundings.

How to Prepare for an Alaskan Hike

While it's smart to go into any hiking trip with a little bit of preparation, this is particularly true in the arctic region, where the temperature can shift fairly drastically. Most travelers recommend bringing some of the following:

Snacks
Water Bottles
Great Hiking Boots
Extra pairs of socks
Jackets
Coats (if you are traveling in the winter)
Microspikes
Snowshoes (winter hiking)

With that, this Alaskan hiker's guide is finally complete. If this vacation has sounded like a dream, come visit Our Alaskan Dream for a paradise in the north.