Anchorage Forest & Valley Guided Hike

Explore the heart of Chugach State Park's glaciated valleys

Embark on a journey through one of the most stunning glaciated valleys in Chugach State Park! On this guided tour, you’ll experience the beauty of the Eagle River trail system, with its lush boreal forests and salmon-rich streams, as well as the awe-inspiring Barbara Falls. The tour is divided into two sections, covering approximately 5 miles, and features easy to moderate hiking suitable for most participants.

Your adventure begins at the Eagle River Nature Center, located along the north fork of the Eagle River in the heart of Chugach State Park. This area is home to a network of forested trails that wind through dense spruces and birches. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife—perhaps the “American Dipper” swimming in a warm geothermal-fed tributary, or moose grazing nearby. You might even spot a snowshoe hare, red fox, or, with a little luck, a bear!A portion of this hike follows a the historic Iditarod dogsled trail—although you won’t find any dogs pulling sleds here, just your own two feet as we explore this iconic route.

After the forest hike, you’ll take a short ride to one of Chugach State Park's most spectacular sights—Barbara Falls. This stunning waterfall offers dramatic views and is surrounded by vibrant plant life, fascinating fungi, and numerous photo opportunities. The short half-mile walk to the falls is a rewarding and scenic finale to our tour, leaving you with lasting memories and plenty of photos to treasure.