North Face Trail Mount Alyeska
A challenging 2-mile hike with a 2000ft elevation gain, offering breathtaking summit views and a free tram ride down.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light and fewer crowds
North Face Trail Mount Alyeska
Best Time
Best light and fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging 2-mile hike with a 2000ft elevation gain, offering breathtaking summit views and a free tram ride down.
"The hike up is challenging, even for experienced hikers, but the view is worth it."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear good hiking boots or shoes with excellent grip for the steep and sometimes muddy trail.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Bring plenty of water, as the 2000ft elevation gain is strenuous and can dehydrate you quickly.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Views
Top of Mount Alyeska
Breathtaking panoramic views of mountains and the inlet, even on cloudy days. Worth the strenuous climb!
The Challenging Ascent
The entire trail
A demanding 2-mile hike with 2000ft elevation gain, featuring steep switchbacks and stair-like sections.
Tram Ride Down
Alyeska Resort Tram
Enjoy a complimentary ride down the mountain, a welcome relief after your challenging hike.
Salmon Berries & Amenities
Summit area
Enjoy seasonal salmon berries, plus access to a bar, deli, museum, gift shop, and restrooms at the top.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Climb: Prepare for the Ascent
Tram Down Bonus: A Rewarding Descent
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear good hiking boots or shoes with excellent grip for the steep and sometimes muddy trail.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Bring plenty of water, as the 2000ft elevation gain is strenuous and can dehydrate you quickly.
⬆️ Pace Yourself
It's a tough climb! Take your time, especially if you're not used to such elevation gains.
⬇️ Tram Down Option
Save your knees and enjoy the views by taking the tram down (space permitting).
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear good hiking boots or shoes with excellent grip for the steep and sometimes muddy trail.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Bring plenty of water, as the 2000ft elevation gain is strenuous and can dehydrate you quickly.
⬆️ Pace Yourself
It's a tough climb! Take your time, especially if you're not used to such elevation gains.
⬇️ Tram Down Option
Save your knees and enjoy the views by taking the tram down (space permitting).
🌦️ Be Prepared for Weather
Mountain weather can change rapidly; be ready for clouds or rain, even on a clear day.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The North Face Trail is a highly rewarding, albeit challenging, hike offering spectacular summit views. While the steep 2000ft elevation gain in 2 miles is demanding, the well-maintained trail and the bonus of a free tram ride down make it a must-do for many visitors. Amenities at the top add to the overall experience.
"Great trail, kinda steep but not too bad. 2000' in two miles. Surface is solid with lumber to keep things in place. Huge bonus! They'll let you ride DOWN the tram (space available)."
Thomas Moreau
"2000 ft elevation gain is no joke but the view is worth it along with the salmon berries, bar and deli and museum gift shop and bathrooms and free tram ride down. A must do!"
Madeline Miller
"Was on the trail today to support Let Every Woman Know Alaska, an organization dedicated to helping women who diagnosed with gynecological cancers.
The hike up is challenging, even for experienced hikers. I was able to make the over two mile and 2000 ft. of elevation gain trek in an hour and fifteen minutes…but it was tiring. If I wasn’t in a group and in a race, I would have definitely taken it slower.
The view is incredible, even on a cloudy day the mountains and Inlet dramatically pop in and out of view. The trail was muddy but not too bad. For as much as it is trafficked it is in great shape. Bring water and be ready for switchbacks and wide stair type sections that can work the strongest of knees. The race is all up, with rides offered down for free on the tram. If you are visiting and wanting exercise and a view and the fun of the tram, this is a great option.
You will pass under the ski lift and past the mid section building as you switch toward the top, don’t be fooled into thinking it is over at that first building, you still will have some hiking left after but you’ll be nearing the finish at that point.
The trail ends at the museum and gift shop. There are two restaurants and the tram (and restrooms) just up the steps and further out a trail system of the upper mountain. Check hours for everything, but know there will be ways to relax and enjoy the top once you make it there. FYI, the staff of the mountain rescue team frequently patrols all of the trails to make sure folks are safe, be sure to thank them if you run into them!"
Robin Dern
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The North Face Trail is located at the Alyeska Resort in Girdwood, Alaska. You can drive to the resort, and the trailhead is accessible from there. It's about a 45-minute drive south of Anchorage.
Yes, Alyeska Resort offers parking for visitors. It's recommended to arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.
Absolutely! The North Face Trail is a popular day trip from Anchorage, offering a challenging hike and rewarding views.
The trailhead is typically accessed from the base of Alyeska Resort. Follow signs for the hiking trails.
While driving is the most common method, some shuttle services may operate from Anchorage to Girdwood/Alyeska Resort. It's best to check local transport providers for current options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the North Face Trail itself is free to hike. However, you will need to pay for the tram ride down if you choose that option.
Tram hours vary seasonally and can be affected by weather. It's crucial to check the official Alyeska Resort website for the most up-to-date operating schedule before your visit.
There is no entrance fee for the North Face Trail. It's a public access trail.
The trail is generally accessible during the summer months when snow has melted. Winter ascents are for experienced mountaineers only and require proper gear.
While the trail is open, it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety and visibility. Always check resort operating hours for the tram.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike is about 2 miles with a 2000ft elevation gain. It can take anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours to ascend, depending on your fitness level and how often you stop.
This trail is considered difficult due to its steepness and elevation gain. It's a strenuous workout.
Expect a well-maintained trail with lumber to keep things in place, featuring steep switchbacks and wide stair-like sections. It can be muddy at times.
Restrooms are available at the top of the mountain at the museum and gift shop area. There are no facilities along the ascent.
At the summit, you'll find a museum, gift shop, restrooms, a bar, and a deli. You can also access further trail systems.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are dining options at the summit, including a bar and a deli, perfect for refueling after your hike.
You are welcome to bring your own snacks and water for the hike up. There are also places to purchase refreshments at the summit.
The summit typically offers casual dining options like sandwiches, snacks, and beverages.
While there aren't designated picnic areas, you can enjoy your own snacks with the stunning views.
Yes, Alyeska Resort has several dining establishments at its base, offering a range of culinary experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
Every turn offers a new vista! The switchbacks provide unique angles, and the summit offers expansive panoramic shots. Don't miss the views under the ski lift.
Absolutely! The views from the summit are described as incredible, even on cloudy days, making the challenging hike worthwhile.
Early mornings or late afternoons (golden hour) often provide the best light for photography, though the dramatic scenery is impressive anytime.
Yes, the tram ride down offers fantastic photo opportunities of the surrounding landscape and the trail you just conquered.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A sturdy tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions or long exposures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more family-friendly experience at Alyeska Resort, explore the shorter, flatter trails around the base or enjoy the amenities at the summit without completing the strenuous hike. The museum and gift shop at the top can also be engaging for kids.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own water and snacks to save money. If you're looking for an intense workout with incredible views without a hefty price tag, this trail is a fantastic option.
🏃♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
Many runners aim for personal best times, with some completing the ascent in under 40 minutes. The trail offers a fantastic opportunity to test your cardiovascular fitness and leg strength. Remember to properly warm up and cool down, and consider the tram for an easier descent to aid recovery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The North Face Trail: A Hiker's Challenge
Many hikers describe the climb as challenging, even for experienced individuals. The effort, however, is widely considered to be rewarded with incredible views from the summit. The trail is well-maintained, considering its popularity and the challenging terrain. It's a popular spot for events and races, highlighting its status as a significant physical challenge.
Key Takeaways for Hikers:
* Fitness: Be prepared for a significant physical challenge.
* Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots with good traction are essential.
* Hydration: Carry ample water.
* Pacing: Allow sufficient time and don't rush the ascent.
Summit Experience: Views and Amenities
Visitors can find a museum, a gift shop, and restrooms at the top. For those looking to refuel, there's a bar and a deli offering refreshments and snacks. This makes the summit a destination in itself, allowing hikers to relax and soak in the surroundings after their strenuous climb. Additionally, further trail systems extend from the upper mountain, offering opportunities for more exploration for the truly adventurous.
Summit Highlights:
* Spectacular Views: Unobstructed vistas of the surrounding Alaskan landscape.
* Convenient Amenities: Museum, gift shop, restrooms, bar, and deli.
* Extended Trails: Options for further exploration beyond the main summit area.
The Alyeska Tram: A Scenic Descent
It's important to check the tram's operating hours before your hike, as they can vary seasonally and are subject to weather conditions. This ensures you can plan your descent effectively. The tram ride is often described as a huge bonus and a must-do for visitors who have completed the hike.
Tram Down Tips:
* Check Hours: Verify operating times on the Alyeska Resort website.
* Space Permitting: Be aware that it's not guaranteed if the tram is full.
* Enjoy the Views: The descent offers a unique photographic opportunity.
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