California Creek Trail

Most people will start this trail behind the Hotel Alyeska and parking is available there if you're not a guest spending the night. This trail can be broken down into 3 segments and the first section is .75 miles along many sections of boardwalk. It's all very flat and keeps you dry when the surroundings are rather wet. We have seen some cool things in the past along this section - moose tra...

Mount Alyeska is an out-and-back where you may see local wildlife located near Girdwood, Alaska.

The trail begins at sea level and winds its way through the forest gradually, occasionally allowing a peek at the Turnagain Arm behind you. Once out of the treeline, the trail becomes much steeper, around dirt and rocks, but with the summit in sight it's easy to continue on, despite that stinging burn in your calves. There's an outhouse within the first 5 minutes of the trailhead. Last chance...

You'll see tons of animals including bald eagles, bears, moose, muskox, lynx, reindeer, and wolves!  It's a conservation center so they have a great mission.  It is located in Portage Valley and is surrounded by the Chugach Mountain Range and the Turnagain Arm Inlet.   Open 7 days a week, 10 am to 6 pm with last entry at 5 pm. You do have to buy tickets, which you can do ahead of time online or...

This hike must be done in the deep of winter! Around February, Portage Lake is often frozen solid-solid enough to make walking safe.  Hikers, bikers, skiers, skijourers, and snowshoers will form a 3 mile trail out to Portage Glacier.  This trail is appropriate for children. For younger children, they can be easily pulled in a sled if you so desire.  Starting at the Begich Boggs Visitor Center (...

To begin on this adventure, you first have to find the trailhead. Drive out on the highway to Girdwood, and turn left at the sign that says "Portage Glacier". Towards the end of the road, it Ys and you take a right, then another right. Follow this road, and the first parking lot on your right is the one for you. Unfortunately there are no bathrooms here, but if you're a true adventurer you won'...