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)

Season Greetings,

Welcome to the Winter edition of the Hike of the Week! This hike takes us just outside the city of Anchorage on upper hillside to the Silver Fern Spur Trail. This trail system is your connection to a variety of incredible hikes into the Chugach Park System. Silver Fern Trail is a 1.3 mile trail that connect with Gas Line trail, which if taken will lead you up to Powerline trail, Flattop Mountain and beyond!

We’re taking a short loop today, which totals at 2.6 miles long. To sum up this hike: Close to town, scenic, not strenuous, but has potential if hiked at a faster pace, and never very crowded!

Music from today’s show:
Jack Erdie
“Winter Wildflowers”
www.jackerdie.com

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Happy Hiking!
Scott