Kick Off Spring In Alaska With These 7 Scenic Hikes Under Two Miles
Alaska is undoubtedly home to some pretty amazing hiking trails across the state. But many of the most famous ones can be really hard, have difficult skill levels, and be geared towards experienced hikers. For those new to hiking, or with a shorter amount of time to spend on a trail, we’ve compiled a list of the best hikes in Alaska under two miles. There’s truly a little something for everyone on this list!
1. Potter Marsh Trail — 1.0 miles, Anchorage, Alaska
The Potter Marsh Trail isn't just visually stunning, it's also wheelchair accessible. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll down the boardwalks off the Seward Highway. This raised wooden walk goes over right over a river that salmon run through. But that's not the only wildlife you'll see — bring binoculars for the incredible amount of birds you'll encounter, but you won't need them for the moose that frequent the area. When it comes to amazing boardwalk trails in Alaska, Potter Marsh Trail belongs at the top of the list.
2. Rodak Nature Loop — 0.8 miles, Eagle River Nature Center
Eagle River Nature Center, 32750 Eagle River Rd, Eagle River, AK 99577, USA
This easy trail in Eagle River is a nice, easy loop for the whole family. The trail brings you all the way down to a platform observation deck, where the views in the valley are absolutely stunning. This is an excellent area for wildlife viewing. Make sure you check in with the Visitor's Center so they can let you know what has been spotted recently. Learn more about this stunning nature center in Alaska.
3. Reflection Lake Trail — 1.1 miles, Palmer, Alaska
This gorgeous trail loops right around the beautiful Reflection Lake. With scenic vistas at every turn, this is a perfect easy afternoon stroll. The trail is well maintained, and the views of Pioneer Peak are a showstopper. There is plenty of parking and a lookout tower for you to explore. There's a lot to love about this easy loop trail in Alaska.
4. Gold Creek Flume Trail — 1.4 miles, Juneau, Alaska
Another beautiful boardwalk on our list! This trail is also wheelchair accessible. Follow this out and back trail in Juneau to see some beautiful sights, including waterfalls. The wooden planks are raised above the old mining grade. With no elevation gain, this is truly a great hike for the new hikers in your family. Learn more about Gold Creek Flume Trail in Alaska.
5. Parks Highway Bike Trail — 1.0 miles, Denali, Alaska
This paved path follows along the scenic Nenana River to Nenana Canyon. It is an excellent stroll that connects the business district in Nenana Canyon to the Park Entrance. An easy stroll, there's a less than 5 percent grade for you to deal with, so you can focus on the gorgeous views instead. Learn more about planning your trip along the famous Parks Highway in Alaska.
6. Birch Hill Blue Loop Trail — 1.1 miles, Fairbanks, Alaska
This is a nice, easy forest loop located in the Birch Hill Recreational Area in Fairbanks. In the winter this is a highly trafficked cross country ski trail, but in the spring, summer, and fall you can enjoy taking a leisurely ramble through this gorgeous forest. For more information about this trail, including a map and directions, check out the AllTrails listing.
7. Beluga Slough Trail — 1.2 miles, Homer, Alaska
Beluga Slough Trail, Beluga Slough Trl, Homer, AK 99603, USA
Last but not least on our list of the best hikes in Alaska is Beluga Slough Trail. This beautiful trail starts at a parking lot at the beach. This easy trail meanders along the ocean and besides the estuary. The boardwalk is flat, and there are picnic tables for you to rest at and bird watch. You'll see plenty of wildlife, with many sightings of Bald Eagles reported. The mountains across the bay are a beautiful scene to take in during your walk.
What are you waiting for? Lace up those hiking boots and explore Alaska’s scenery — without the long, difficult trails. Do you agree that these are some of the best hikes in Alaska? If so, be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you!
Address: Potter Marsh, Anchorage, AK 99516, USA
Address: Eagle River Nature Center, 32750 Eagle River Rd, Eagle River, AK 99577, USA
Address: Palmer, AK 99645, USA
Address: Gold Creek Flume Trail, Juneau, AK 99801, USA
Address: Denali, Alaska, USA
Address: Beluga Slough Trail, Beluga Slough Trl, Homer, AK 99603, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
best hikes in Alaska
March 06, 2022
Beth C.
What are some of the top natural wonders in Alaska?
It’s no secret that Alaska is one of the most naturally-stunning places in the world. Brimming with epic mountain peaks, fjords, rivers, and lakes, the Last Frontier is truly bucket-list-worthy. No matter if you’ve lived there your entire life or are simply planning a quick visit, you’ll likely want to know about the top natural wonders in Alaska. Well, we’ve got you covered! In fact, we’ve even put together a natural wonders road trip through Alaska. Some of the destinations on this list include Eagle Creek Nature Center in Eagle River, Eklutna Lake, Matanuska River Lookout, Matanuska Glacier State Recreation Site, the Boreal Forest as seen from the Glenn Highway, the Copper River, Worthington Glacier from the Richardson Highway, Horsetail Falls, and Valdez Glacier Lake. Curious to learn more? For all the details, check out our previous article: The Ultimate Alaska Natural Wonders Road Trip Is Right Here – And You’ll Want To Do It.
Address: Potter Marsh, Anchorage, AK 99516, USA
Address: Eagle River Nature Center, 32750 Eagle River Rd, Eagle River, AK 99577, USA
Address: Palmer, AK 99645, USA
Address: Gold Creek Flume Trail, Juneau, AK 99801, USA
Address: Denali, Alaska, USA
Address: Beluga Slough Trail, Beluga Slough Trl, Homer, AK 99603, USA
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Megan McDonald is a writer, photographer, and owner of an Alaska-based media company. She spends her free time traveling with her husband and daughter, and loves to see and experience new things!
