Hike the Twin Peaks Trail

Anchorage, Alaska

5.0/5

based on 2 reviews

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Details

Distance

2.6 miles

Elevation Gain

1800 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Josh Hollandsworth

Easy to access glacial lake with amazing views from above, located about 40 minutes from downtown Anchorage. Eklutna Lake is glacier fed, making the water a rich turquoise color.

The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains that host a variety of interesting wildlife. If you look closely, it is not uncommon to see a Dall's sheep or two on the mountain side. At the western edge of the lake, you will find the parking lot and trailhead. There are picnic tables and a bathhouse located next to the parking lot if you choose to hang out by the lake for the day.

If you decide to go hiking, you can follow the trailhead from the parking lot all the way to the top of the Twin Peaks trail. The hike is just under 3 miles and offers some amazing views. Most people take frequent breaks at the designated lookout points to have a seat and enjoy the view. Check out this link for a trail map and more details: http://dnr.alaska.gov/Assets/uploads/DNRPublic/parks/maps/eklutnalaketrailguide.pdf

*It is very unlikely that you will have cellphone reception unless you climb up the mountain, so be prepared to enjoy the peaceful solitude for a few hours.

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Chillin

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Hiking

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Dog Friendly

Easy Parking

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Forest

Lake

Picnic Area

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Reviews

Natalie F

Hike the Twin Peaks Trail

07/31/20

Awesome hike close to Anchorage. Get started early and then when you are done relax by the lake! $5 parking charge (another reason to get there early, this place fills up). We also did Pepper Peak Trail in addition to this. Love this lake!

5.0

Xander Walsh

Hike the Twin Peaks Trail

04/29/18

Clearly marked trail head a minute from parking lot. Obvious, easy but steep old road bed that brings you into the steep upper valley south side twin peaks. There is a bench where the trail narrows to single track at tree line. From there it’s alpine and you can go to Salt and Pepper peak or twin peaks. Look for sheep.

5.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Hike the Twin Peaks Trail

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Leave No Trace

Nearby

Explore Eklutna Lake

Thunderbird Falls

Hike the Pioneer Ridge-Austin Helmers Trail

Explore the Knik Arm's Ice Fields

Camp at Chugach State Park

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