6 Hikes With the Best Sunset Views in Alaska

There are endless opportunities to catch a sunset view in Alaska. Personally, I love getting out and finding a good sunset hike in Alaska where I can be secluded and immersed in the state's natural beauty. Now that the days are getting longer, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite sunset hikes that you can add to your bucket list this year. 

I’ve tried to keep all of these hikes to a reasonable length — hiking for miles in the dark can be dangerous. Make sure you’ve got the best hiking gear when you tackle these treks, including a good headlamp and an AllTrails + account.

1. Flattop Mountain Trail

• Location: Anchorage, Alaska
• Length: 2.8 miles
• Difficulty: Hard

You’ll find this Alaskan sunset hike in Chugach State Park. Clocking in at nearly three miles, this loop trail will certainly challenge you. The last bit will have you scrambling to the summit, and you’ll need both hands free. Bring a backpack so you can store a water bottle, snacks, and any other hiking gear you may need.

2. Mount Baldy Loop

• Location: Eagle River, Alaska
• Length: 2.9 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate

The Mount Baldy Loop is also located in Chugach State Park and is slightly easier to navigate. Traction cleats will come in handy on this trail, as it can be fairly steep and slippery in the winter. The beginning of the trail passes through the old Wallace Homestead — which is private property — and it’s important to stay on the trail. No side quests, guys!

3. Lena Point Trail

• Location: Juneau, Alaska
• Length: 0.9 miles
• Difficulty: Easy

This Alaskan sunset hike is a short and sweet stroll with minimal elevation gain. It leads you around Lena Point, with beautiful waterfront views almost the entire way. This is an excellent beginner-friendly, kid-friendly, and dog-friendly trail — so bring the whole squad!

4. Sugar Loaf Ridge

• Location: Denali National Park, Alaska
• Length: 4.1 miles
• Difficulty: Hard

You’ll be working your calves on this one, but the panoramic views will be worth it! The trail begins at the Grand Denali Lodge and then steeply climbs to the summit. Hiking poles are recommended!

5. Homer Spit Trail

• Location: Homer, Alaska
• Length: 8.6 miles
• Difficulty: Easy

Taking a walk down the Homer Spit Trail is easily one of the most beautiful walks you’ll ever take. You don’t have to do the entire 8.6 miles; just park and start wandering. Watching the sunset bounce off of the mountains and the water is just mesmerizing. Bonus points if you can find the swing set and watch the sunset from there! 

6. Turnagain Arm Trail

• Location: Hope, Alaska
• Length: 3.4 miles
• Difficulty: Hard

There are a few different trails that showcase the beauty of Turnagain Arm. The Rainbow Trailhead to Windy Corner Trailhead is 3.5 miles and potentially comes with goat sightings!

Share this article with someone you want by your side as you tackle one of these sunset hikes in Alaska. For more spectacular views, check out these sunrises and sunsets in Alaska.