10 Family Friendly hikes near Palmer and Wasilla, Alaska
Alaska is the perfect place for outdoor-loving families. Wasilla and Palmer are located in the middle of it all and make a great jumping off spot for exploring Southcentral Alaska. The area’s lakes, rivers and hills provide plenty of opportunities for family-friendly hikes through the gorgeous Alaska landscape. From a raised boardwalk to a surprise mountain top lake, these ten family-friendly hikes will be sure to give everyone something to remember from their Alaska vacation.
Bodenburg Butte Trail
This 3-mile round trip hike is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The trail leads to the top of Bodenburg Butte, where hikers can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Chugach mountains, Knik Glacier and the Mat-Su Valley. Hikers can choose Butte Trailhead and Sandvik Family Trail which is shorter and steeper or the West Butte trail which features stairs along the steepest portions of the trail. The trail is well-defined with some steep sections, but the reward at the top is worth it.
Scout Ridge Loop Trail
This 1.5-mile loop trail offers a gentle hike through a forested area with occasional views of the Knik River Valley. The highlight of the trail is the view of the Palmer Hay Flats. This 20,000 acre wildlife refuge exists because the land dropped 10-20 feet during the 1964 earthquake turning pasture land into salt flats and marshland. Today it is a haven for moose, fish and birds. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for hikers of all ages. The trailhead is easily accessible just west of Wasilla.
April Bowl
Located in Hatcher Pass, this 2-mile round trip hike leads to a beautiful alpine meadow and lake. After an initial slightly steep climb, the trail is relatively easy to navigate, making it an excellent option for families with young children. Hikers can stop at the lake, where on a warm day you might even see locals taking a dip, or continue up the ridge to Hatch Peak. The trailhead begins at the Summit Lake Recreation Area parking lot at the crest of Hatcher Pass.
Reflections Lake
This 1-mile loop trail takes hikers through a picturesque forest around Reflections Lake. The trail is relatively flat, making it accessible to hikers of all ages. Be sure to climb the viewing platform to get a birds-eye view of the Palmer Hay Flats. And stop to enjoy the view of Pioneer Peak from the western end of the lake. The trailhead is just off the Glenn Highway south of Wasilla. On busy days you’ll find cars lining the road opposite the small parking lot.
Matanuska Experimental Farm
This 2-mile loop trail takes you through the historic Matanuska Valley Agricultural Experiment Station, where you can learn about Alaskan agriculture while enjoying views of the mountains. The trail is fairly flat and accessible for all abilities. Matanuska Lakes trail and the Experimental Farm trail are both part of the 33-mile Matanuska Greenbelt Trail System. The trail system is well-marked but keep an eye on the guideposts during your hike because these trails cross each other several times and can be confusing.
Matanuska Lakes Trail
This 3.7-mile roundtrip hike takes you through a beautiful forest to two crystal-clear lakes. The terrain is relatively flat with some rocky sections, but the scenery is breathtaking. Bring your bug spray on this hike! The trailhead is located in the Matanuska State Recreation Area, just off the Glenn Highway between Wasilla and Palmer.
Gold Cord Lake
A favorite of local families, this 3-mile roundtrip hike takes you across Fishhook Creek Valley before heading upwards through a rocky boulder pile. You’ll need to do minimal rock scrambling but the trail is defined enough for young hikers. The trail pops over the top of the boulders and leads to a stunning alpine lake with views of Pioneer Ridge. Be sure to stop and take a look at the abandoned mining cabin on your way. The trailhead can be found at the east end of the Independence Mine Parking Lot. Leave yourself time to explore the mine after your hike.
Wasilla Boardwalk Trail
Less than a mile round trip, this trail is a short but sweet hidden gem. We have rarely seen other hikers on the trail. After a short section of dirt trail, the remainder is a raised boardwalk along Wasilla Creek and through marshy wetlands. The trail ends at a raised platform with a picnic table so bring a snack and enjoy the view of the Palmer Hay Flats and Chugach Mountains before returning. The trailhead is just south of Wasilla and can be a bit tricky to find. Look for the parking lot on your left just after you cross the small bridge over Wasilla Creek.
Thunderbird Falls
This less than 2-mile round trip hike follows Thunderbird Creek and leads to a stunning 200 foot tall waterfall. The trail leading to the viewing deck is relatively flat and suitable for hikers of all ages and abilities. The more adventurous in the group will want to take the side trail which leads down to the creek and provides another view of the waterfall. This lower trail can be quite muddy so don’t wear your Sunday shoes! The trailhead is easily accessible off the Glenn Highway between Anchorage and Wasilla.
Matanuska River Park
This park offers several hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels, all with views of the Matanuska River. The trails range from easy strolls to moderate hikes, making it an excellent option for families. The main loop is 1.6 miles leading from the parking area to the river and back. One of the trails takes you next to the Palmer Pioneer Cemetery which was established in 1936 and is the final resting place for many Palmer colonial families. The trailhead is located near the Matanuska River Park parking lot in Palmer.
11 tips for day hiking in Alaska
When hiking in Alaska, planning ahead is key. Make sure to pack plenty of water, snacks, bug spray and appropriate clothing for the weather. As my dad always told me, “plan for the worst and hope for the best.”
1. Prepare for weather. Temperatures and weather conditions can change rapidly in Alaska. Always plan for changing weather, especially if hiking up to higher elevations where it will be cooler. Pack rain gear, extra layers and a hat and gloves.
2. Wear the right shoes. Lightweight hiking boots with good ankle support or sturdy tennis shoes are a must for Alaska day hiking. Trails are often muddy so consider waterproof shoes and maybe an extra pair of socks.
3. Dress in Layers. Wear a moisture-wicking t-shirt as your first layer. A long-sleeved, sun-protective shirt is great as a second layer. Pack or wear a waterproof, breathable jacket as an outer layer. Quick dry pants are a good option with thermal long underwear as a base layer if needed.
4. Be Bear Aware. You may have seen bells sold as a bear deterrent in tourist shops. These are fine to get if you want them but any type of noise is a good idea while hiking in bear country (which is pretty much anywhere in Alaska). Most bears want to avoid humans and will leave at the sound of approaching hikers. Conversations among your hiking group will do the trick and singing is one of our favorite ways of alerting any bears to our presence. Bear spray should be an essential part of your day hiking supplies. But don’t keep it in your backpack while hiking – it needs to be easily and quickly accessible.
5. Be Moose Aware. As with bears, your best bet is making noise so you don’t surprise a moose. Give them space and don’t approach them. Be especially cautious if a mamma moose has her babies with her. She will be on high alert to any danger
6. Bring bug spray. We’re not kidding when we say the mosquitos are big in Alaska. Bug spray is a must. If you want more protection, bring a bug net that will cover your head, neck and face.
7. Bring water and snacks. You can never have enough water during a hike, especially if things don’t go exactly as planned. Bring as much water as you can carry. Pack a few snacks for energy and for enjoying while you soak in the amazing views you are sure to find.
8. Know the environment. If you are a visitor to Alaska, you may spot some unfamiliar vegetation. Watch out for Devil’s Club and Cow Parsnip. Both grow quite tall and have large green leaves. Devil’s Club is covered in thorns on both stems and leaves. Cow Parsnip contains a chemical that can cause rash, blisters and itchy, burning skin in some people.
You’ll likely come across quite a few different berries during your hikes throughout Alaska. Berry picking is a much-anticipated activity every summer for Alaskans. But unless you know what you are looking at, it is better to err on the side of caution.If you don’t know for certain what type of berry it is, avoid eating it. Hikers who want to enjoy Alaska’s wild berries should purchase a berry identification guide. Definitely avoid any white berry as all white berries in Alaska are poisonous.
9. Sun protection. The intensity of the sun on an Alaska summer day may not be as intense as in the lower 48 due to its lower angle in the sky, but when there are 18 – 24 hours of daylight, that adds up to a lot of sun exposure. Reapply sunscreen throughout the day. A hat with a brim, sunglasses and sunscreen should always be in your day hike backpack.
10. First aid kit. Another must have for any hike. Purchase a small, lightweight first aid kit at just about any store or make your own in a ziplock bag. Bandages, gauze, medical tape, and antibacterial ointment are the basics you should carry. A pocket knife and an emergency space blanket are good additions.
11. Have an emergency plan. Always let someone know where you are hiking and when you’ll be returning. Don’t expect your cell phone to get service outside of town. Stay on marked trails unless you are an experienced hiker and have a GPS or satellite transmitter.
Now that you are prepared, grab your pack and get out there to explore Alaska! Whether you’re looking for mountain views, alpine lakes, or waterfalls, you’re sure to find a hike that fits your family’s needs.
