Alaska is an absolute wonderland all year long. There are thousands of hikes all throughout the state, ranging from beginner to difficult. We put together a list of the best hikes in Alaska for you to enjoy all 12 months out of the year! So grab your kit and your hiking buddy, and head on out to any of these unforgettable seasonal hikes in the Last Frontier. While at first you might associate hiking with warm weather, after reading through all of these incredible options, we are sure you will change your tune and appreciate walking through nature at all times of the year here in our stunningly gorgeous state.

  1. January: W Butte Trail - Palmer

Ty Scott / AllTrails What better way to ring in the new year than with a panoramic view of Matanuska Valley and the surrounding mountains covered in alpenglow? This beautiful hike is only 2.3 miles out and back and very peaceful in the cold winter weather. You’ll climb 721 feet in elevation, and the views are absolutely worth it. Make sure you strap on your spikes or ice grippers for the slippery parts, as you may run into a little ice on the trail. But it’s a welcome way to enjoy a brisk January day. You’ll always be glad you explored the W Butte Trail! West Butte Trail, 15702-15704 Mothershead Ln, Palmer, AK 99645, USA

  1. February: Rodak Nature Loop - Eagle River

Cheryl Flores / AllTrails Is there anywhere prettier than Eagle River Nature Center in the cold winter months? We think not! And the Road Nature Loop is an easy trail that’s fantastic for all skill levels, especially beginners. The views are loved by all! This wonderful loop trail is only .8 miles long and an easy 200 feet elevation gain throughout the whole trail. But the sights are comparable to some of the best on the planet, and with so little effort needed to soak them in. Pack up the whole family and make sure to spend a day exploring the easy trails around Eagle River Nature Center during the cold, crisp, and beautiful days of February. The Rodak Nature Loop is a true winter wonderland. Roop Road, Roop Rd, Anchorage, AK 99577, USA

  1. March: Thunderbird Falls Trail - Eklutna

John Malanchuk / AllTrails This easy hike is a fabulous one all year long, but we love the solitude that late winter brings. The trail brings you to the epic Thunderbird Falls waterfall, and by March the falls have melted, but there’s still snow all around you. The easy 1.8-mile out-and-back trail is rolling and offers plenty of views all along the way. The trail will be wet and snowy in March, so bring your boots and your sense of wonder. We’re sure you will agree that Thunderbird Falls Trail is one of the most scenic trails in Alaska. Thunderbird Falls Trail, Anchorage, AK 99567, USA

  1. April: Mount Roberts Tramway to Gastineau Peak - Juneau

Dustin Pilcher / AllTrails Best hiked between April through September, this stunning hike will give you panoramic views of Juneau and the surrounding mountains. This 3.9-mile out-and-back trail does climb 1,889 ft in elevation, but every step is worth it. Take in the sights, try to spot the wildflowers starting to pop out, and borrow some hiking poles if you need them from the Nature Center at the top of the tram. Mount Roberts Tramway to Gastineau Peak is an epic hike with unforgettable views! Gastineau Peak, Juneau, AK 99801, USA

  1. May: Laughton Glacier Trail - Skagway

Brittany Frambach / AllTrails This epic hike takes you up close to Laughton Glacier. This 4.2-mile hike is moderate and easy to complete, especially if you grab a guide to help you on your way. You’ll only climb 856 feet in elevation gain, but the rocky field before the glacier can be a little tricky, especially in early May when there might be some snow on the ground. The best part? You’ll be taking the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad to this beautiful hike, so you’ll get the chance to really soak in the views on the way to the trailhead. Excursions start in early May and leave early in the morning. Tickets are definitely worth it for the incredible views you will get to see on the gorgeous Laughton Glacier Trail. Laughton Glacier, Skagway, AK 99840, USA

  1. June: Winner Creek Trail - Girdwood

Sunny Awazuhara- Reed / Design Pics / Getty Images June’s one of the warmest months of the year in Alaska, and there’s no better place to beat the heat than on the Winner Creek Trail in Girdwood. Meandering through the northernmost temperate rainforest, this stunning 4.9-mile hike will take you all the way to the creek and through the gorgeous mountain landscape right outside Alyeska Resort. If you want to do the longer hike at Winner Creek Trail, make sure to start outside the Alyeska Tram because the hand tram is currently not operational. This trail covers 866 feet of elevation gain and gives you stunning views, like the waterfall at the creek! Winner Creek Trail, Anchorage, AK 99587, USA

  1. July: Grace Ridge Trail - Homer

Glennie LeBaron / AllTrails This unbelievable hike is located in Kachemak Bay State Park right outside of Homer. The trailhead is only accessible by water ferry, and you’ll have to cross the bay to reach the start of the hike. But this hike will blow you out of the water! You’ll follow the ridge trail for approximately 8.4 miles, out and back, and you’ll be stunned the whole way. The elevation gain is steep at 3,431 feet, and this is definitely a harder hike, but it belongs on your bucket list. Choose a sunny day if possible and be prepared to be wowed. Keep your eyes peeled for bears, as you’re in the heart of Alaska’s backcountry on the beautiful Grace Ridge Trail in Homer, Alaska. Grace Ridge Brewing Co., 870 Smoky Bay Way, Homer, AK 99603, USA

  1. August: Crescent Creek Trail - Cooper Landing

Taylor Stack / AllTrails This show-stopper is gorgeous all summer long, and some brave souls even trek it in the wintertime, but August is our favorite month to hike out to Crescent Lake. Located on the Kenai Peninsula, this beautiful out-and-back trail takes you 13.3 miles into the Chugach National Forest. The first mile is pretty steep switchbacks, and where almost all that 1,581 ft elevation gain is realized, but after that, it’s mostly flat. You can take the trail to the public-use cabin and spend the night, (make sure to book it ahead of time!) or head on out after resting at the lake. The amazing Crescent Creek Trail in Cooper Landing, Alaska features some of the best hiking in the state and the weather in August makes it just about perfect. Crescent Creek Trail Head Parking, Quartz Creek Rd, Cooper Landing, AK 99572, USA

  1. September: Mount Marathon Hike - Seward

Silke Simons / AllTrails This epic trail in Seward, Alaska is a favorite all summer long, but there’s something very special about hiking it in the fall. Hit it in September before the snow falls, and watch the colors change all over the mountainside. Pack your gear because you might get wet on this 4.1-mile loop that covers over 2,923 feet of elevation gain. But the views are worth it. Head out for an incredible day on the Mount Marathon Hike in Seward. Mount Marathon Trail, Mt Marathon Trail, Seward, AK 99664, USA

  1. October: Carlanna Lake Trail - Ketchikan

Shauna S / AllTrails Hiking the Carlanna Lake Trail is like traipsing through a fairy tale. It’s known by many residents as one of the best trails in Alaska. Cross beautiful boardwalks as you explore the Tongass National Forest and pass by lakes and waterfalls. The trail is a 5.1 out-and-back hike, and you’ll gain 2,316 ft throughout the whole thing. This is a beautiful hike to do in the fall when you’re visiting Ketchikan! Carlanna Lake Trail is truly a fantastic place to spend your day. Carlanna Lake Road, Carlanna Lake Rd, Ketchikan, AK 99901, USA

  1. November: South Fork Falls - Eagle River

Elizabeth Marcucci / AllTrails Before the falls start freezing, make sure to head on out to Eagle River and soak in these powerful waterfalls. There are no leaves on the tree to block your view, and the hike is easy and mostly empty in November. Dress warmly, and enjoy this short and sweet 1.3-mile loop trail that only climbs about 180 feet in total. It’s a great way to get the blood pumping on a cold day! The sights you will get to see are definitely worth the cold you will experience on the hike to South Fork Falls in Eagle River. South Fork Falls Trailhead, 21711 Ken Logan Cir, Eagle River, AK 99577, USA

  1. December: Tanana Lakes - Fairbanks

Jessica Steinacker / AllTrails Is there anywhere more glorious than Fairbanks in the wintertime? We think not! And the Tanana Lakes Trail is an easy trail to hike, cross-country ski, or snowshoe in the winter time that will be showing off Alaska’s winter beauty. A popular 2.9-mile loop, this trail is well-loved all year, but especially beautiful during the winter season. Check out the beautiful Tanana Lakes in Fairbanks for a real winter treat this year! Tanana Lakes Recreation Area, 4400 S Cushman St Exd, Fairbanks, AK 99701, USA

Have you taken any of these seasonal hikes in Alaska throughout the year? Which one is your favorite? Do you recommend any trails we left off the list? Let us know in the comments below!

Ty Scott / AllTrails

What better way to ring in the new year than with a panoramic view of Matanuska Valley and the surrounding mountains covered in alpenglow? This beautiful hike is only 2.3 miles out and back and very peaceful in the cold winter weather. You’ll climb 721 feet in elevation, and the views are absolutely worth it. Make sure you strap on your spikes or ice grippers for the slippery parts, as you may run into a little ice on the trail. But it’s a welcome way to enjoy a brisk January day. You’ll always be glad you explored the W Butte Trail!

West Butte Trail, 15702-15704 Mothershead Ln, Palmer, AK 99645, USA

Cheryl Flores / AllTrails

Is there anywhere prettier than Eagle River Nature Center in the cold winter months? We think not! And the Road Nature Loop is an easy trail that’s fantastic for all skill levels, especially beginners. The views are loved by all! This wonderful loop trail is only .8 miles long and an easy 200 feet elevation gain throughout the whole trail. But the sights are comparable to some of the best on the planet, and with so little effort needed to soak them in. Pack up the whole family and make sure to spend a day exploring the easy trails around Eagle River Nature Center during the cold, crisp, and beautiful days of February. The Rodak Nature Loop is a true winter wonderland.

Roop Road, Roop Rd, Anchorage, AK 99577, USA

John Malanchuk / AllTrails

This easy hike is a fabulous one all year long, but we love the solitude that late winter brings. The trail brings you to the epic Thunderbird Falls waterfall, and by March the falls have melted, but there’s still snow all around you. The easy 1.8-mile out-and-back trail is rolling and offers plenty of views all along the way. The trail will be wet and snowy in March, so bring your boots and your sense of wonder. We’re sure you will agree that Thunderbird Falls Trail is one of the most scenic trails in Alaska.

Thunderbird Falls Trail, Anchorage, AK 99567, USA

Dustin Pilcher / AllTrails

Best hiked between April through September, this stunning hike will give you panoramic views of Juneau and the surrounding mountains. This 3.9-mile out-and-back trail does climb 1,889 ft in elevation, but every step is worth it. Take in the sights, try to spot the wildflowers starting to pop out, and borrow some hiking poles if you need them from the Nature Center at the top of the tram. Mount Roberts Tramway to Gastineau Peak is an epic hike with unforgettable views!

Gastineau Peak, Juneau, AK 99801, USA

Brittany Frambach / AllTrails

This epic hike takes you up close to Laughton Glacier. This 4.2-mile hike is moderate and easy to complete, especially if you grab a guide to help you on your way. You’ll only climb 856 feet in elevation gain, but the rocky field before the glacier can be a little tricky, especially in early May when there might be some snow on the ground. The best part? You’ll be taking the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad to this beautiful hike, so you’ll get the chance to really soak in the views on the way to the trailhead. Excursions start in early May and leave early in the morning. Tickets are definitely worth it for the incredible views you will get to see on the gorgeous Laughton Glacier Trail.

Laughton Glacier, Skagway, AK 99840, USA

Sunny Awazuhara- Reed / Design Pics / Getty Images

June’s one of the warmest months of the year in Alaska, and there’s no better place to beat the heat than on the Winner Creek Trail in Girdwood. Meandering through the northernmost temperate rainforest, this stunning 4.9-mile hike will take you all the way to the creek and through the gorgeous mountain landscape right outside Alyeska Resort. If you want to do the longer hike at Winner Creek Trail, make sure to start outside the Alyeska Tram because the hand tram is currently not operational. This trail covers 866 feet of elevation gain and gives you stunning views, like the waterfall at the creek!

Winner Creek Trail, Anchorage, AK 99587, USA

Glennie LeBaron / AllTrails

This unbelievable hike is located in Kachemak Bay State Park right outside of Homer. The trailhead is only accessible by water ferry, and you’ll have to cross the bay to reach the start of the hike. But this hike will blow you out of the water! You’ll follow the ridge trail for approximately 8.4 miles, out and back, and you’ll be stunned the whole way. The elevation gain is steep at 3,431 feet, and this is definitely a harder hike, but it belongs on your bucket list. Choose a sunny day if possible and be prepared to be wowed. Keep your eyes peeled for bears, as you’re in the heart of Alaska’s backcountry on the beautiful Grace Ridge Trail in Homer, Alaska.

Grace Ridge Brewing Co., 870 Smoky Bay Way, Homer, AK 99603, USA

Taylor Stack / AllTrails

This show-stopper is gorgeous all summer long, and some brave souls even trek it in the wintertime, but August is our favorite month to hike out to Crescent Lake. Located on the Kenai Peninsula, this beautiful out-and-back trail takes you 13.3 miles into the Chugach National Forest. The first mile is pretty steep switchbacks, and where almost all that 1,581 ft elevation gain is realized, but after that, it’s mostly flat. You can take the trail to the public-use cabin and spend the night, (make sure to book it ahead of time!) or head on out after resting at the lake. The amazing Crescent Creek Trail in Cooper Landing, Alaska features some of the best hiking in the state and the weather in August makes it just about perfect.

Crescent Creek Trail Head Parking, Quartz Creek Rd, Cooper Landing, AK 99572, USA

Silke Simons / AllTrails

This epic trail in Seward, Alaska is a favorite all summer long, but there’s something very special about hiking it in the fall. Hit it in September before the snow falls, and watch the colors change all over the mountainside. Pack your gear because you might get wet on this 4.1-mile loop that covers over 2,923 feet of elevation gain. But the views are worth it. Head out for an incredible day on the Mount Marathon Hike in Seward.

Mount Marathon Trail, Mt Marathon Trail, Seward, AK 99664, USA

Shauna S / AllTrails

Hiking the Carlanna Lake Trail is like traipsing through a fairy tale. It’s known by many residents as one of the best trails in Alaska. Cross beautiful boardwalks as you explore the Tongass National Forest and pass by lakes and waterfalls. The trail is a 5.1 out-and-back hike, and you’ll gain 2,316 ft throughout the whole thing. This is a beautiful hike to do in the fall when you’re visiting Ketchikan! Carlanna Lake Trail is truly a fantastic place to spend your day.

Carlanna Lake Road, Carlanna Lake Rd, Ketchikan, AK 99901, USA

Elizabeth Marcucci / AllTrails

Before the falls start freezing, make sure to head on out to Eagle River and soak in these powerful waterfalls. There are no leaves on the tree to block your view, and the hike is easy and mostly empty in November. Dress warmly, and enjoy this short and sweet 1.3-mile loop trail that only climbs about 180 feet in total. It’s a great way to get the blood pumping on a cold day! The sights you will get to see are definitely worth the cold you will experience on the hike to South Fork Falls in Eagle River.

South Fork Falls Trailhead, 21711 Ken Logan Cir, Eagle River, AK 99577, USA

Jessica Steinacker / AllTrails

Is there anywhere more glorious than Fairbanks in the wintertime? We think not! And the Tanana Lakes Trail is an easy trail to hike, cross-country ski, or snowshoe in the winter time that will be showing off Alaska’s winter beauty. A popular 2.9-mile loop, this trail is well-loved all year, but especially beautiful during the winter season. Check out the beautiful Tanana Lakes in Fairbanks for a real winter treat this year!

Tanana Lakes Recreation Area, 4400 S Cushman St Exd, Fairbanks, AK 99701, USA

You’re bound to work up an appetite after completing this epic list of hikes, so make sure to hit these 10 great restaurants in Alaska that belong on your dining bucket list. You will definitely be glad you did!

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The OIYS Visitor Center

Best Hikes in Alaska December 21, 2022 Danielle Schwartz What are the best easy hikes in Alaska? The best easy hikes in Alaska are perfect for taking your whole family out, including the little ones.

Perseverance Trail in Juneau Creamer’s Field Migratory Wildlife Refuge in Fairbanks Russian River Falls Flattop Mountain at Glen Alps in Chugach State Park Carter Lake Trail outside Moose Pass Horseshoe Lake Trail in Denali National Park Tonsina Trail to Cathedral Falls

  What are the best state parks in Alaksa? The best state parks in Alaska are full of natural beauty. Check them all out:

Wood-Tikshik State Park Point Bridget State Park Chilkat State Park Kachemak Bay State Park Denali National Park

The OIYS Visitor Center

Best Hikes in Alaska

December 21, 2022

Danielle Schwartz

What are the best easy hikes in Alaska? The best easy hikes in Alaska are perfect for taking your whole family out, including the little ones.

Perseverance Trail in Juneau Creamer’s Field Migratory Wildlife Refuge in Fairbanks Russian River Falls Flattop Mountain at Glen Alps in Chugach State Park Carter Lake Trail outside Moose Pass Horseshoe Lake Trail in Denali National Park Tonsina Trail to Cathedral Falls

  What are the best state parks in Alaksa? The best state parks in Alaska are full of natural beauty. Check them all out:

Wood-Tikshik State Park Point Bridget State Park Chilkat State Park Kachemak Bay State Park Denali National Park

The OIYS Visitor Center

The OIYS Visitor Center

The best easy hikes in Alaska are perfect for taking your whole family out, including the little ones.

  • Perseverance Trail in Juneau
  • Creamer’s Field Migratory Wildlife Refuge in Fairbanks
  • Russian River Falls
  • Flattop Mountain at Glen Alps in Chugach State Park
  • Carter Lake Trail outside Moose Pass
  • Horseshoe Lake Trail in Denali National Park
  • Tonsina Trail to Cathedral Falls

 

What are the best state parks in Alaksa?

The best state parks in Alaska are full of natural beauty. Check them all out:

  • Wood-Tikshik State Park
  • Point Bridget State Park
  • Chilkat State Park
  • Kachemak Bay State Park
  • Denali National Park