Spring Hike Up Flattop
Hiking in Alaska can sometimes be unpredictable, especially in the mountains. This early spring hike was a mix of snowy trails, mud, rocks, dust and lots of high winds. Getting out and summiting a local hill can still be a great time, despite the spring conditions.
On this hike, we’re just 20 minutes from downtown Anchorage on a very popular local mountain known as Flattop. During the summer months, this 1.5 mile (one way) hike is often busy with hikers, backpackers, mountain bikers, families and even tourists.
The appeal of Flattop is its close proximity to town and the amazing view you get at the top. While it is an easy hike for the first half, I would highly recommend a good pair of hiking boots for the upper portions of the hike. Once you get past the saddle portion of the hike, the terrain becomes very rocky and eventually becomes a bit more like mountain climbing than hiking.
No matter your ability, Flattop is a great place to get out and gain some elevation for some spectacular views. So, without further adieu – enjoy the show!
Resources:
- Flattop Mountain Shuttle
Roundtrip from downtown Anchorage for $22 - Large Map of the Flattop Trail System
(5.9mb JPG image)
Tags: anchorage, chugach state park, hike, southcentral, videos
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Flickr Photos
May 23, 2009
Good time!
Naturally with all the great sunshine we’ve had over the past weeks, the day we go we’re served hurricane force winds and freezing cold weather. Seriously though – Flattop is a great local mountain to get your hiking legs going on.
Enjoy all!
Scott
May 26, 2009
I did this hike on the last day of my 10 day trip to Alaska a couple years back. It was FANTASTIC! Beautiful views just a few minutes away from downtown. Unfortunately the weather was overcast and rainy my entire visit, except that last day.
With the beautiful weather on that final day I was able to hike Flattop as well as a great view of Mt. McKinley in the distance. I left later that night on a red eye. Great times.
Apr 29, 2010
How about hiking clothes reviews for the back country? Great shows!
Takisha