Rendezvous Peak Trail in the beautiful Chugach National forest is a popular trail for those who live in the Anchorage area. Just a 25 minute drive from downtown Anchorage, this hike is a stroll up 1,300 feet of elevation. Head out to Rendezvous Peak for endless vistas of the Anchorage Bowl and down to the ocean. The amazing thing is that the view can be seen after a hike of less than two hours. Once you are up in the sky, you just keep chasing peaks along the Chugach mountains. This easy hike is a great for everyone.
Interactive Map to the the Rendezvous Peak Trialhead here.
Take the scenic Arctic Valley Road seven miles up Rendezvous Peak to the top. You can park in the parking lot to access the trail with a $5 donation to the Alpenglow Ski Resort. The trailhead is at the very end of the road.
Arctic Valley Ski Area Official Facebook The washboard conditions on the drive up Arctic Valley Road can be rough on a low clearance vehicle. Just go slowly and enjoy the view.
The trail from the Arctic Valley side is an easy hike that is 1.5 miles each way, rising 1,300 feet in elevation throughout. The conditions are best from April to September.
Michael Hayes | Flickr The road travels through military land on the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER). You will travel through the Arctic Valley Gate which is open from 0600-2200 (6 AM – 10 PM). Please obey all traffic signs. Be prepared for road closures if the base is on alert.
The hike starts at tree level and leads you upward to a ridge with a staggering view in less than 2 hours. There are a series of trails to choose from, but it is recommended that hikers stay on the Rendezvous Peak Trail.
Benjamin Ashmead | Alltrails.com Whatever you do, DO NOT approach the military equipment visible from the trail. The area is fenced off and on private military land. They are required to dispatch security and detain those who trespass in this area, so save everyone a headache by sticking to the trail.
The peak explodes with wildflowers in June and July. There is also an alpine meadow filled with wild Alaskan blueberries in August.
Scott Sheard | Alltrails.com
Dogs are allowed on the trail as long as they are kept on leashes. People use the area for hiking, trail running, wildflower identification, and birding.
Megan Tracy | Alltrails.com
At 1.5 miles out to the edge, this hike is 3 miles total and most of the way you can see the amazing view. This hike is great for kids or a nature trip with a group.
Benjamin Ashmead | Alltrails.com
If you head out in April or May, it is important to know about avalanches and how to determine the risk on any given day. If there is too much snow on the ridge, do not attempt the hike.
Benjamin Ashmead | Alltrails.com
It can snow any time of year in the mountains in Alaska, so always be cautious and bring layers, even on this easy, short day hike.
Lindsay Miksch | Flickr
The highest peak provides views of the Anchorage Bowl and Cook Inlet, Ship Creek Valley, and South Fork Eagle River. On a clear day, you may even see Denali!
Kristen Reardon | Flickr
Spend a day in the Chugach Mountains for a refreshing hike on the Rendezvous Peak Trail. You’ll love this incredible trail that offers a bird’s eye view of the Anchorage Bowl.
Ashley Lang | Flickr
Check out more fun trail is in Alaska in 15 Incredible Hikes Under 5 Miles Everyone In Alaska Should Take.
Arctic Valley Ski Area Official Facebook
The washboard conditions on the drive up Arctic Valley Road can be rough on a low clearance vehicle. Just go slowly and enjoy the view.
Michael Hayes | Flickr
The road travels through military land on the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER). You will travel through the Arctic Valley Gate which is open from 0600-2200 (6 AM – 10 PM). Please obey all traffic signs. Be prepared for road closures if the base is on alert.
Benjamin Ashmead | Alltrails.com
Whatever you do, DO NOT approach the military equipment visible from the trail. The area is fenced off and on private military land. They are required to dispatch security and detain those who trespass in this area, so save everyone a headache by sticking to the trail.
Scott Sheard | Alltrails.com
Megan Tracy | Alltrails.com
Lindsay Miksch | Flickr
Kristen Reardon | Flickr
Ashley Lang | Flickr
Have you been to Rendezvous Peak Trail? Tell us about it in the comments below!
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