Crow Pass Trail
Table of contents
Route Description for Crow Pass Trail
The hike on Crow Pass Trail is a great route. Combine this with a Tram ride at Alyeska Resort for a great day out near Anchorage.
The Crow Pass Trail is a good hike with a steady elevation gain and a good quality trail. Bears are common in surrounding territories, so have your bear spray with you and ensure you learn about bear safety beforehand. In addition, we suggest against hiking during the snowy season, as the trail has a high risk of avalanches.
Start your hike to Crow Pass by taking the trail from the carpark. After around 0.8 km of walking through lush vegetation, you will rise above the treeline. This is where Crow Valley starts, and the views of surrounding mountains are amazing.
Shortly, you will reach a junction. Both paths lead to the same point, so you can take either. The difference we have noticed is that the left path takes you closer to beautiful waterfalls, however the one on the right is more pleasant to walk on. You will pass Brenner Mine at this point.
After almost 1.6 km these trails will merge back into one and you will pass along Crow Pass Cabin that sits near Crystal Lake.
Continue for a short while and you will reach Crow Pass where you can observe amazing views of the valleys, surrounding peaks and beautiful Raven Glacier. If you want, you can even walk closer!
Return the same way you came.
Trail highlights
Raven Glacier
Raven Glacier sits at an impressive 762 m tall and is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the Chugach Mountains. The highest parts of the Raven Glacier provide a mountaineering route called the Raven Headwall that leads to a famous glacier called Eklutna, which is located on the other side of the mountains.
If you hike the Crows Pass, about 4.8 km in from the trailhead, you will see the most spectacular views of Raven’s Glacier. If you continue another mile, you can actually touch the toe of the glacier and get an up close look at its gnarled and rugged shape and texture.
Find other amazing hikes around Anchorage:
Insider Hints for Crow Pass Trail
- Spend night camping at Crown Pass Cabin.
- If you’re up for adventure, you can take a one-way backpacking trip to Eagle River. This 22.4mi long trail is very challenging, but so rewarding! It includes crossing rivers, climbing ladders, going through thick foliage and passing through bear habitats.
- Approaching the Raven Glacier is definitely worth it – you can even touch it!
Getting to the Crow Pass Trail Trailhead
From Girdwood, take the North turn on Crow Creek Road. After around 7.0mi you will reach the dead-end. That is where you will find the trailhead.Route Information
When to do:
June - October
Pets allowed:
Yes - On Leash
Family friendly:
No
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Out and back
Crow Pass Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews
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