The Chugach Mountains stretch roughly 250 miles across south-central Alaska, forming the rugged backdrop immediately east of Anchorage. Unlike Alaska’s more remote ranges, a large chunk of the Chugach is genuinely easy to reach for a day trip or afternoon hike.
Getting There
Chugach State Park, one of the largest state parks in the U.S. at about 495,000 acres, sits right on Anchorage’s eastern edge, with several trailheads reachable in 20 to 30 minutes from downtown. The Glen Alps and Prospect Heights trailheads are the most popular starting points and get busy on summer weekends. Further east and south, the range extends into Chugach National Forest, accessible from the Seward and Glenn Highways.
What to See and Do
Flattop Mountain, reached from the Glen Alps trailhead, is one of the most-climbed peaks in Alaska thanks to its short (about 3-mile round trip), non-technical route and panoramic views over Anchorage and Cook Inlet. The park also has longer backcountry routes for backpacking, and in winter, Alyeska Resort and several backcountry zones in the range draw skiers and snowboarders. Wildlife viewing, mountain biking, and berry picking are all popular in the more accessible front-country trails near Anchorage.
Wildlife
Dall sheep are often visible from the road along Turnagain Arm and from front-country trails, along with black and brown bears, moose, and, less commonly, wolverines deeper in the range.
When to Go
Front-country trails near Anchorage are accessible from late spring through fall, with many hikers going as early as May depending on snowmelt and as late as October. Winter access is possible on established routes for snowshoeing and backcountry skiing but requires proper gear and avalanche awareness.
