Let’s go for a hike–in Talkeetna

In Alaska Travelgram by scott

Best Hiking in Talkeetna Alaska
Hiking in the shadow of Denali, near Talkeetna

Best Hiking Trails in Talkeetna with Views of Denali

Grab your hiking boots and head north to Talkeetna and Denali State Park for some of the best hiking trails in Alaska. In the upper Susitna Valley, great trails give way to spectacular Denali and the Alaska Range views on everything from day hikes to multi-day expeditions.

Hiking in Talkeetna Alaska
Views along the Talkeetna Lakes system. Photo: Alaska Nature Guides.

Family Friendly Hike – Talkeetna Lakes Trail System on Comsat Road

Close to Talkeetna, don’t miss the Talkeetna Lakes trail system. This 3.5-mile walking trail loops around X Lake and features custom benches when you are ready to take a break. It’s perfect for families or those just starting, with minimal elevation gain. It’s located on Comsat Road, about a mile and a half before town.

You can also hike around the Talkeetna Riverfront Park for views of the Talkeetna River and the mountains.

More Things To Do in Talkeetna:

A beautiful view of Byers Lake. Photo: Alaska Nature Guides.

Scenic Hike – Byers Lake Loop in Denali State Park

Further north in Denali State Park, the Byers Lake Loop is a popular hike and is relatively easy for families, although it is five miles, so plan accordingly for time. The hike around Byers Lake is known for its stunning views of Denali.

Another easy hike with great views is at Kesugi Ken Campground at Mile 135.4 Parks Hwy. From the day-use parking lot, you can access ADA-compliant trails that feature overlooks with panoramic views of Denali.

Denali and the Alaska Range views in Denali State Park are even better than in the national park. And there are numerous ways you can enjoy those views – from a kayak or canoe, on foot or on a camping trip, for example.

Hike and Camp – K’esugi Ken Campground in Denali State Park

K’esugi Ken Campground in Denali State Park offers RV and tent sites and public-use cabins (book well in advance for the cabins!). A trail system is accessible right from the campground, allowing you a simple walk to an overlook or a starting point for a longer trek. For the real adventurers, Curry and Kesugi ridges form a 35-mile ridge trail system for multi-day treks.

Public-use cabins can be rented in advance through the Alaska State Parks for overnight visits. The cross-country skiing, snow machining, and northern lights viewing are great in Denali State Park in the winter.

Don’t miss out on one of Alaska’s most underrated state parks. Stop for a day, or pack the tent for a weekend of great views and big adventures.

Talkeetna is an outdoor lover’s paradise, rich in natural beauty and opportunities for adventure. Hiking is one of the most popular things to do in Alaska, and the trails near Talkeetna and the Denali State Park range from easy day hikes to expert backpacking expeditions. 

I hope you try one or all of the hiking trails recommended in this post about hiking in Talkeetna. 

More great summertime adventures in Alaska:

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