Matanuska Peak

Matanuska Peak is a classic Alaskan hike: intensely steep, partially off trail, unparalleled vertical gain, and unlimited views. This 10.4 mile hike gains nearly 5,700 vertical feet, much of which is concentrated in the last mile's scree ascent to the summit. The payoff for this difficult climb is 360-degree views of the Chugach and Talkeetna ranges, including several dramatic glaciers and hundreds of peaks named and unnamed.

The trailhead is easily accessible near Palmer, AK, although there is only space for a few vehicles in the small lot. The trail begins on a flat doubletrack trail for 0.2 miles, but this is short-lived as it quickly turns left onto a steep and rooty trail that weaves through the forest and devil's club for another 1.9 miles and 1700 vertical feet before emerging into the alpine tundra. The grade levels off for a bit and then climbs gradually for around 1.6 miles; in late summer and early fall several types of alpine berries including blueberries, crowberries, and bunchberries are populous along this section of the trail. Soon the trail turns left and begins climbing the steep 3,000 feet remaining to the summit. This section of the climb begins with loose Chugach scree, which can be slippery and frustrating, but the trail is relatively easy to follow in this section. The last thousand feet or so of the climb transition to more large talus, which generally provides firmer footing, but the trail becomes ambiguous here at many points. There are few trail markers, so some basic routefinding ability is needed.

Once the 6,131-foot summit is reached, the views astound in every direction. The Knik Arm, Palmer, and the ascent route can be seen to the west. To the north, Hatcher Pass and the Talkeetna range. To the south and east, the Chugach mountains stretch for miles, including views of Mount Marcus Baker and Marcus Baker Glacier.

The descent is via the same route. Be cautious of rockfall as there may be climbers still ascending. Also, although much of this hike is in alpine terrain, wildlife is still present, and bears and moose can be present in the area, so be sure to use proper bear awareness and safety.