Adventure Collective
null - Anchorage

Summer Valley & Forest Hike

Anchoragemoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3–4 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should have average physical fitness with the ability to hike on uneven terrain for several hours.

Overview

Discover the natural wonders of Alaska with this private summer hike through lush valleys and dense forests near Anchorage. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a personalized wilderness experience filled with scenic views and wildlife encounters.

Anchorage, Alaska

Summer Valley & Forest Hike

Vistas Viewed From A Valley's Vantage

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Adventure Photos

Summer Valley & Forest Hike photo 1

About This Adventure

Towering Mountains, Thriving forests, and Glacial Water


Highlights

Dates: May 1st - October 31st

Tour #1: 8 am - 1 pm Tour #2: 2 pm - 7 pm

Travel Time: 1.25 Hour (40 minutes one-way) Hiking Time: 3.75 Hours

Age recommendations: 8 & up

Distance & Elevation Gain: ~5 miles and 500 feet (or 50 flights of stairs)

Difficulty: ★★★☆☆ Easy for some & moderate for others.

• Experience hiking at Chugach State Park's Eagle River Valley & visit Barbara Falls! 🌄 • Perfect for solo travelers, couples, and families with older children. 👩👨 • Enjoy breathtaking views of towering vistas. Amazing landscapes await! • Learn about Alaska's boreal forests and glaciated valleys from a skilled naturalist. 🌲 • Opportunity for wildlife viewing including, salmon, bear, moose and birds! 🐟 • Provisions include a granola bar, apple, and cheese stick. 🍽


Description

Experience the wonders found in one of the Chugach State Park's fondest, glaciated valleys. On this tour, we will take you to both the glorious Eagle River trail system where boreal forests and salmon spawning streams are found, as well as magnificent Barbara Falls. This tour consists of two portions and is approximately 4 miles in length. The hiking isn't too strenuous, so most people can participate. However, please note the experience suggestions before signing up!

The first portion takes you to the network of forested trails found at the Eagle River Nature Center, nestled deep along the north fork of the Chugach State Park's massive Eagle River. FUN FACT! Our hike features a portion of the historic Iditarod dogsledding trail no longer in use. So, there won't be any dogs giving us a ride on this adventure, just our own two feet! Onward, we'll go through thick spruces and birches while keeping an eye out for wildlife. We may see the "American Dipper" swimming in a tributary warmed by geothermal heat; or we could see moose and small mammals like the snowshoe hare or red fox. Perhaps, even a bear!

For the second portion, we'll take a short ride to the Chugach State Park's best waterfall, Barbara Falls. What a sight to behold! This section is a short half mile walk that features incredible plants, fungus, and point-and-shoot photo opportunities around every corner. It's super rewarding and a great way to conclude our tour. Need we say more? Join today!

Experience Suggestions

No experience required, but you should be able to walk at least 6 miles on flat pavement, or 5 miles of uneven rolling terrain over the course of 4 hours. You should also be able to balance well and feel comfortable walking in muddy and slippery conditions. Some parts of the trail are steep and hilly, placing additional stress on areas of the body not impacted by level terrain. Not recommended for those with cardiac or respiratory issues/illness. May be difficult for those with joint issues.


Rates

Non-Private Rate Per Person: $159 Solo travelers are welcome to book, however please note that we have a 2 person minimum requirement for the tour to operate. In the event you are the only person on the hike, we will contact you within 24 hours prior to your tour, and provide you with the following options:

  1. Move to another time & date.
  2. Upgrade to a private hike for 1 ($318).
  3. Cancel your booking for a full refund.

Private Party Rates: Private rates start at $318 and are provided during booking. You get the whole tour to yourself or your group, plus hotel/AirBnb pick up!


Transportation

Non-Private Bookings: Pick-up is at the Egan Center on 5th Ave in Downtown Anchorage.

Private Parties: We will pick you up from where ever you are staying, as long as it is in Anchorage.

You are also welcome to meet us at the trailhead! Just let us know when checking out.

Are you ready to Explore Your Wild and experience the Alaskan wilderness? Reserve your spot now, and we guarantee you'll have a blast!

Adventure Tips

Stay Hydrated and Wear Layers

Alaskan weather can change quickly; bringing layers and plenty of water keeps you comfortable throughout the hike.

Pace Yourself on Steep Sections

Some parts of the trail include inclines, so take your time and rest as needed to enjoy the scenery.

Use Sun Protection

Even in summer, UV rays can be strong; apply sunscreen and wear a hat for protection.

Carry a Small First Aid Kit

Be prepared for minor scrapes or insect bites with a basic first aid kit inside your pack.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Moose
  • Black Bears

History

The area used to be part of traditional Alaskan indigenous lands, with trail routes historically used for trade and travel.

Conservation

Hike Alaska emphasizes Leave No Trace principles to preserve the wilderness for future generations, minimizing impact and promoting responsible outdoor recreation.

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Adventure Hotspots in Anchorage

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Sturdy Hiking Boots

Essential

Provides support and traction for uneven forest and valley trails.

Lightweight Daypack

Essential

To carry water, snacks, layers, and safety gear comfortably.

Weather-Appropriate Clothing

Essential

Breathable, moisture-wicking clothes suited for variable Alaskan summer weather.

summer specific

Sun Protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses)

Essential

Protects skin and eyes from strong UV rays during daylight hours.

summer specific