The Most Romantic Hiking Trails in Alaska for a Valentine’s Day Adventure

Alaska in the winter is unlike anywhere in the Continental U.S., with a rugged, untouched beauty that makes it an unforgettable place to explore, experience, and fully immerse in one of the last vestiges of true wilderness. But it's also a beautiful spot to kick the romance into high gear, especially if you and your other half are into outdoor adventures. After all, what screams "I love you" more than a backdrop of towering snowcapped mountains touched by alpenglow, a wall of icy waterfalls and glaciers frozen in time, or the glittering expanse of a vibrant alpine lake?

Science suggests that working up a sweat is a bit of an aphrodisiac, so this Valentine's Day, why not jumpstart the romance fireworks with a quick trek through Alaska's winter wonderland scenery? We've rounded up a few easy hikes that are perfect for two, but avoided diving too deep into risky territory (we want to make sure you can still make those dinner reservations, after all!).

1. Mount Baldy Trail, Chugach State Park

The Mount Baldy Loop in Chugach State Park is a phenomenal place to catch a sunset, and winter just so happens to be prime time to tackle it with your special someone! This short and sweet hike is even doable for families (just over 1,000 feet in elevation gain), and comes with a fantastic payoff at the summit: sweeping, 360-degree views of the Eagle River Valley and its surrounding peaks. Microspikes are a must here, especially if you plan to reach the summit, but we also recommend trekking poles to help navigate the slick route down. However, if you're not feeling the full 3-mile loop, reaching the summit is not a requirement. You'll also find side options along the way that lead to pretty overlooks, rock fields, and frozen ponds without hoofing it up the final (admittedly steep) ascent.

2. Thunderbird Falls, near Chugiak

Surprisingly accessible but with a breathtaking final destination, especially in the off-season, experiencing Thunderbird Falls near Chugiak is what winter dreams are made of. Tucked away in the Knik River Recreation Area, this powerful 200-foot waterfall is known to freeze over in the height of winter, creating a dramatic, glacier-like scene. The short, 2-mile trail meanders through a quiet, tranquil forest, offering lush, woodsy views and peeks of the Knik River below before opening up into a stunning waterfall alcove. There's a viewing area here that's perfect for sitting side-by-side to drink in the sights or even enjoying a light lunch before heading back.

3. Eklutna Lakeside Trail, Chugach State Park

You'd be hard-pressed to find a lake in Alaska that doesn't look positively surreal in winter, yet somehow Eklutna Lake manages to wow year after year. The Eklutna Lakeside Trail invites winter adventurers to explore its 12.7-mile stretch along a serene, frozen lake backed by the Chugach Mountains in Chugach State Park. This trail is all about the details: icy cliffs shimmering in the sunlight, snowy trails perfect for snowshoeing or skiing, and moose that might wander into view. It’s easygoing but long enough to feel like you’ve escaped into true wilderness. This is a phenomenal spot to stop and take some cute, postcard-worthy photos together!

4. Near Point Trail, near Anchorage

If strolling hand in hand through dense old-growth trees sounds like your perfect day-date outing, the Near Point Trail is a fantastic option. Spikes are a must on this trail if you're going to attempt to connect to other trails in the area, but aren't typically necessary on the main route. After gently climbing through dense forested landscapes and meandering alongside a pretty creek, this trail leads to spectacular views of the area, including Anchorage, the Alaska Range, Denali, Wolverine Peak, and Canyon Creek—depending on how far along the ridge you continue.

5. Trail of Blue Ice, Portage Valley

Portage Valley is a hopping destination during the warmer months, for good reason. The Portage Highway, a 5-mile strip through Portage Valley, is typically full of travelers hoping to catch a glimpse of the ice-blue glaciers that give the Trail of Blue Ice its distinctive name. But come winter, this family favorite natural area finds new life and endless quiet under fresh blankets of snow. For couples looking for an easy mixed-use trail to explore in Southeast Alaska, this 7-mile hike is a classic jaunt through unmarred solitude and scenery. Charming footbridges, lakes, the trail’s namesake hanging glaciers, and numerous creeks crisscross the trail, peeking through the thick brush. Slap on some skis or snowshoes (or even rent a pair of fat bikes), and you and your boo will have miles of ever-changing scenery to enjoy!

Love is in the air but so is winter's icy grip—and with it, an enchanting world of snow-flocked trees and bucket-list-worthy sights! This Valentine's Day, whether with your better half or your favorite platonic BFF, embrace the cold, savor the scenery, and welcome the holiday with a dose of Alaska's great outdoors.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own Alaska adventure using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner. And if you are searching for even more bucket-list-worthy hikes in Alaska, check out more than a dozen of our favorite trails in the Last Frontier.