Hiking

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Contents 1 Introduction 2 Alaska Hiking Considerations 3 Alaska Hiking Opportunities by Region 3.1 Southeast Alaska (the Panhandle) 3.2 Southcentral Alaska 3.3 Interior Alaska 3.4 Arctic and Western Alaska 4 Hiking Resources

Introduction

Alaska has many, many opportunities for hiking. Because most of the state is public land, it is possible to walk in many areas without permission. On the other hand, there are very few developed trails, especially considering the size of Alaska's landmass.

Alaska Hiking Considerations

Hiking in Alaska often requires practiced wilderness skills as help can be hours or even days away. While there are some easy hikes near Alaska's larger cities, wilderness hiking can be difficult and dangerous for the uninitiated.

Nevertheless, Alaska hiking can provide rewards not found in most of the rest of North America. True wilderness hiking trips are possible, even at relatively short distances from the Alaska road system. Scenic vistas and wildlife viewing opportunities can be spectacular in some areas.

Alaska Hiking Opportunities by Region

Southeast Alaska (the Panhandle)

Most of southeast Alaska is heavily forested with rolling hills or high mountains. There are some trails near the larger communities. Overland travel can be challenging because of the dense forests.

Southcentral Alaska

The largest number of Alaska's developed trails are found in southcentral Alaska. 55 Ways to the Wilderness in Southcentral Alaska is a good guidebook to some of these trails. This region is also largely forested, but some of the alpine areas here allow ridge walking, and cross country travel is somewhat easier than in SE Alaska, although still challenging.

Interior Alaska

Rolling hills dominate the Interior. Ridge walking opportunities are better here. Overland travel is simpler, but can be difficult because of bogs and tussock fields. There are some developed trails in this region, primarily around Fairbanks.

Arctic and Western Alaska

This is the region with the fewest developed hiking trails. Access is also the most complicated as it is largely unconnected to the North American road system.

Hiking Resources

Trail Listings

• Alaska Hike Search Good trail list

Forums

• The Alaska Hiking Forum
• Alaska Hiking & Backpacking Forums
• Mountaineering Club of Alaska Forum

Books

• 50 Hikes in Alaska's Chugach State Park
• 55 Ways to the Wilderness in SC AK
• A Walk-About Guide to Alaska Vol 1
• A Walk-About Guide to Alaska Vol 2
• Backpacking in Alaska
• Hiking in Alaska
• Hiking Alaska

Agency Resources

• Bureau of Land Management Alaska outdoor recreation information
• Alaska National Parks
• Alaska Division of Parks & Outdoor Recreation