Chugach National Forest sprawls across more than 6.9 million acres of rugged mountains, dense forests, and rushing waterways just east of Anchorage. If summer calls for multi-day backpacking with a punch of Alaskan wildness and manageable logistics, this is the place. Here, the wilderness is fiercely itself — rivers dare you to cross, ridges challenge your stamina, and alpine meadows reward each step with breathtaking views.

1. Crow Pass Trail Loop
Distance: Approximately 26 miles
Elevation Gain: Around 4,000 feet
Terrain: A mix of forested valleys, rocky passes, and glacial moraines. Expect river crossings with variable currents.
Crow Pass is a classic multi-day route that balances challenge and reward. Begin near Girdwood, just a short drive from Anchorage, and trace the trail through old mining ruins, glacier-fed rivers, and wildflower-covered knolls. The trail pushes steadily upward to the pass itself — a vantage point that stretches across the Chugach peaks and spills toward the Harding Icefield. Campgrounds are established and spaced conveniently, but watch for sudden weather swings.

2. Resurrection Pass Trail
Distance: 39 miles one-way
Elevation Gain: Cumulative around 3,600 feet
Terrain: Well-maintained forest trails with several creek crossings and moderate ascents.
Starting near Hope, this trail is perfect for those who want a longer journey with reliable trail conditions and plenty of secluded campsites. The forest here feels alive — trees sway as if whispering secrets, and streams bubble with a steady flow that seems eager to accompany your pace. Wildlife sightings are common, from moose to bald eagles. It's less alpine but rich in quiet wilderness.

3. Turnagain Pass to Bird Ridge Traverse
Distance: 18 miles
Elevation Gain: Approximately 2,100 feet
Terrain: Mix of dense spruce forests transitioning to open ridges, with occasional steep sections.
This route, stretching from Turnagain Pass to Bird Ridge, offers a combination of technical sections and sweeping views. The forest here feels tactile, branches brushing hikers as the terrain narrows before finally bursting open onto panoramic overlooks. It requires careful footing but rewards your focus with eagle-eye views of Cook Inlet's waters and the distant Kenai Peninsula.

Practical Pointers: Hydration is key – filter water from glacial-fed streams, but test for clarity and flow. Footwear needs a sturdy outsole and waterproofing—wet roots and rocky sections are standard. Aim for early summer to avoid mosquito bursts and late snow patches. Start hikes early in the day to maximize daylight and avoid afternoon showers, which often surge through the mountains like a rushing force.

Any multi-day trek here requires respect for the wild and readiness. Weather can sharpen its edge unexpectedly; layers and quality rain gear are essential. Nightfall grows quickly, and campsites are exposed, so plan your stopping points carefully. The rewarding views and vibrant ecosystems will justify every step challenged by terrain and weather. The Chugach doesn’t just challenge—it demands dialogue between you and the land, where every ridge and river has a role to play in your adventure.