The arrival of springtime in Alaska also means that the local wildlife starts spreading its wings. Sit back and enjoy the sights and sounds of local birds as they do their thing.

Music credits:
Artist: Tracy Jane Comer
Title: “Rondo”
Web: www.tracyjanecomer.com

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Every once in a while, we see very beautiful spring days like we did on this hike. It’s early in May and we’re heading out for a light hike (or a walk in the park) around Anchorage’s Campbell Tract. This time of year it’s not uncommon to have face to face encounters with bears, so we were definitely on guard!

This hike began at the park entrance to the Far North Bicentennial Park via Abbott Loop Community Park which is right in the heart of Anchorage. From this entrance you can connect with the Campbell Tract trails run by the BLM or Bureau of Land Management. So, that’s a mouthful of parks and acronyms…basically, we’re taking a mild hike inside Anchorage’s “central park” which can be accessed from many points around the city.

Our end goal was the parking area near the BLM Learning Center – where we only two months previously we captured dog teams and mushers passing through. The BLM/Campbell airstrip is the finish line for the ceremonial start of the Iditarod.

The bottom line:
If you’re looking for an easy hike or a really great place to ride your bike, definitely check out these trails!

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More information
BLM Campbell Tract Official Site
Anchorage Municipality Website “Healty parks, healthy people”

This past weekend I while producing our next two shows we shot in Kennicott and Wrangell-St.Elias, I reached a point of needing fresh air! I had the right hike in mind! Unfortunately, the Hatcher Pass road over to Summit Lake was still closed, which is usually open early June. Spring is still coming to most areas above 2000 feet, so it’s something you’ll need to consider if you’re hiking this weekend.

Now on with the Hike!

As an alternative hike and there’s plenty to be had in Hatcher Pass, I decided to take a hike up in an area that I’ve not visited in well over 15 years! Like I said in the video, most people stop at the top of the first hill, which is great because it’s obtainable for anyone! Venturing further back should be nothing to fear at all… It’s all very easy and flat. Those of you in shape, you’ll be tempted as I was to spend the day exploring the higher ridges and peaks!

There’s no doubt in my mind that I’m going to return this summer again, and probably make a camping an overnight out of the adventure. Care to join?!

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Park Fee: Free Parking (before the park fee entrance)

Hiking Time: Open to your pace and choice destination.
Elevation: Starting 3110 feet to Summit 4038 feet

That’s a Hike!

Question for the Hike of the Week viewers:
How many of you would enjoy doing a monthly meetup hike? I’m also considering potential 2 day trip I have in mind. Let me know!

Spring is here and we’re all ready to get out and do some hiking!
There’s still a bit of snow on the ground, but with all the spring sunshine it’ll be gone in a flash. To get in shape, get some elevation under your belt, and finally get some good color on that pasty white skin check out this hike!

Archangel Valley road is closed to vehicles until summer, but for now it’s a groomed hard packed snow trail perfect for skiers, snow machines, and hikers! We’re coming back this summer to do some serious hikes, and the Reed Lakes hike is top of the list! We’ll be overnighting there with a run up to bomber glacier. Can’t wait!

Here’s how to get there from Anchorage:
- Take the Glenn Highway from Anchorage South to Palmer.
- Two miles past the city of Palmer turn left on Palmer-Fishhook Road
- Fishhook Road becomes the Hatcher Pass Road
- Travel on this road even as you enter the park area.
- Hatcher Pass Rd. is about 15 miles from Palmer.

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Park Fee: Free Parking

Hiking Time: Allow 3 hours roundtrip (taking your time..)
Elevation: Starting 2150 feet to Summit 2400 feet

That’s a Hike!
See our other hikes at: www.alaskapodshow.com/hikeoftheweek