TRAIL & MOUNTAIN RUNNING IN PALMER

Hit the Ground Running

There is no better place to go running than in Palmer.  Many of Palmer’s hiking trails are perfect for trail running.  Be it through the woods, hills, or over mountain peaks, there are plenty of routes for all ages and skill levels.  Whichever trail you choose is sure to be a breathtaking experience.

Featured Running Trails

Alcantra Trail

Alcantra Trail
Name
Alcantra Trail
Website
https://www.matsugov.us/trails/alcantra-trails
Phone
(907) 861 - 8578
Category
, , , , , ,
Description

This 1.6 mile trail is fully paved and perfect for people of all ages.  Though just outside Palmer, it offers a variety of activities such as disc-golf, running, biking, and even Nordic skiing in winter.

For directions and additional information, please contact the Matanuska-Susitna Borough Community Development Department of click on the website link above.

Crevasse-Moraine

Crevasse-Moraine
Name
Crevasse-Moraine
Website
https://www.matsugov.us/trails/crevasse-moraine
Phone
(907) 861 - 8578
Category
, , , , , , ,
Description

The Crevasse-Moraine trail system features over 6 miles of interconnected trails and is is open year round.  These trails run along what was once a glacier bed and ranges widely in difficulty from trail to trail.

For directions and additional information, please contact the Matanuska-Susitna Borough Community Development Department or click on the website link above.

Government Peak Summer Trail

Government Peak Summer Trail
Name
Government Peak Summer Trail
Website
https://www.matsugov.us/trails/gpra-summer
Phone
(907) 861 - 8578
Category
, , , , , ,
Description

Government Peak offers popular summer hiking trails just north of Palmer.  The Main trail to the peak can be daunting, though it offers some of the best views of the area all the way to the Knik Glacier.  Multiple trails for biking and horseback riding also traverse the area.  Note that the parking area is open from 8 AM to 8 PM, so be careful not to get locked in.

For directions or additional information, please contact the Matanuska-Susitna Borough Community Development Department or click on the website link above.

Lazy Mountain Trails

Lazy Mountain Trails
Name
Lazy Mountain Trails
Website
https://www.matsugov.us/trails/lazy
Phone
(907) 861 - 8578
Category
, , , , ,
Description

Two trails, the Lazy Moose Trail and Lazy Mountain Trail, are the primary ascent of the mountain.  The former is a longer, winding trail with moderate slopes and an easier climb, while the latter is much shorter and more difficult as it offers the straightest path to the peak.  From the top you can see the Chugach and Talkeena Ranges.

For directions and additional information, please contact the Matanuska-Susitna Borough Community Development Department or click on the website link above.

Matanuska Peak Trail

Matanuska Peak Trail
Name
Matanuska Peak Trail
Website
https://www.matsugov.us/trails/matpeak
Phone
(907) 861 - 8578
Category
, , ,
Description

This trail is just over 4 miles long from end to end and showcases phenomenal views of the Matanuska and Knik rivers, and of Cook Inlet.  The climb starts out easy, but increases in difficulty as you go, and you will certainly want to bring appropriate attire for changing weather.

For directions and additional information, please contact the Matanuska-Susitna Borough Community Development Department or click on the website link above.

Morgan Horse Trail

Morgan Horse Trail
Name
Morgan Horse Trail
Website
https://www.matsugov.us/trails/morgan
Phone
(907) 861 - 8578
Category
, , , , ,
Description

This trail offers an easy forested 2 mile trek through the woods around Lazy Mountain.  It also features three access points, year-round availability, as well as public restroom and picnic areas.

For directions and additional information, please contact the Matanuska-Sustina Borough Community Development Department or click on the website link above.

Palmer Moose Creek Railroad Trail

Palmer Moose Creek Railroad Trail
Name
Palmer Moose Creek Railroad Trail
Website
https://www.matsugov.us/trails/pmc
Phone
(907) 861 - 8578
Category
, , , , , ,
Description

A beautiful, non-motorized trail that follows an old railroad bed along the Matanuska River.  The trail can be started either from downtown Palmer, or Moose Creek, and runs approx. 6 miles from end-to-end.

For additional information, please contact the Matanuska-Sustina Borough Community Development Department or click on the website link above.

Pioneer Ridge-Austen Helmers Trail

Pioneer Ridge-Austen Helmers Trail
Name
Pioneer Ridge-Austen Helmers Trail
Website
https://www.matsugov.us/trails/pioneer
Phone
(907) 861 - 8578
Category
, , , ,
Description

A rugged, mountainous trek for the experienced outdoors-man. This 12 mile trail ascends to over 6,000 feet above the Valley.  While you can complete this hike over a single day with enough planning, it is encouraged you make camp and spread it out over at least two. The climb is challenging and requires firm knowledge and safety skills to complete; however, the views from the top are one of a kind.

For directions and additional information, please contact the Matanuska-Borough Community Development Department or by clicking on the website link above.

Reed Lakes Trail

Reed Lakes Trail
Name
Reed Lakes Trail
Website
http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/hatcherpass/hatcherpass.htm
Category
, , , , , , ,
Description

This trail, approximately 9 miles round trip, follows an old mining road in Hatcher Pass.  You will hike over 2,000 feet of elevation gain and witness the tarn that feeds Reed Lake, gorgeous waterfalls, the lake itself, and Reed Creek flowing down the mountain.

For directions and additional information click on the website link above or alaska.org/detail/reed-lakes-trail.

 

West Butte Trail

Map provided by MSB Community Development Department
Name
West Butte Trail
Website
http://matsugov.us/trails/westbutte
Phone
(907) 861 - 8578
Category
, , , ,
Description

If you're looking for a quick, middling difficulty hike with phenomenal views of Palmer and the surrounding valley, you cannot beat the West Butte Trail.  Situated only 10 minutes outside the city, this trail traverses the 800+ foot Bodenburg Butte and is maintained by the Matanuska-Susitna Borough.  It features several benches, a shaded ascent, and is topped by a view Lazy Mountain, Pioneer Peak, Matanuska Peak, the Knik Glacier, the Talkeetna Range, and more.

For additional information, contact the Matanuska-Susitna Borough Community Development Department or by clinking the website link above.