10 of the best hiking routes in Alaska
Perhaps no other US location has the diversity of Alaska when it comes to hiking.
From casual strolls to hardcore alpine scrambling, the state proves itself over and over again as a destination of choice for trekkers. Those seeking solitude should venture out of the main city centers and tackle trails not usually traveled by the casual Alaska visitor. Staff at one of four public lands information centers in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Tok, and Ketchikan can assist hiking enthusiasts with all the details related to trails, permits and safety, and provide insight into transportation to remote locations.
Many of Alaska’s trails are also directly connected to its rich culture and history as well, offering a bonus for hikers through interpretive displays or guided opportunities to become more familiar with the largest state in the US. From wandering a national park trail lined with traditional totem poles to witnessing the retreat of an ancient glacier, hiking here means a real-time education into the cultural and environmental aspects that make each region unique. From casual strolls to strenuous scrambles and climbs, here's our guide to Alaska's best hiking trails.