Fans of winter hiking in Alaska have a variety of great trails to check out. If you’re in the mood for particularly scenic trail, head on over to Eagle River. The magnificent River Woods Trail is one of the best winter hikes in Alaska. It will take you through some of south central Alaska’s most beautiful winter scenery. The trail culminates in frozen river views you won’t want to miss! Make sure to put this hike on your to-do list of things to do outside in the winter in Alaska.

The River Woods Trail is in Chugach State Park , located in Eagle River.

Katie Fulmer / AllTrails You’ll hike through some of the most beautiful parts of the Chugach National Forest. The trail follows along the Eagle River, an inlet of the Cook River. In winter, this 40-mile stream is one of the prettiest frozen rivers in Alaska.

Much of this hike follows through a path of towering, snow-covered trees along both sides of the trail. It looks like an absolute winter wonderland out here.

Katie Fulmer / AllTrails It’s a mostly flat trail that has some mild, rolling hills throughout. The entire elevation gain over the whole 4.5-mile trail is only about 643 feet, making it on the easy side when it comes to winter hiking in Alaska.

The out and back hike is on a clear, well-defined path that is clearly marked and easy to follow.

Katie Fulmer / AllTrails Many novice hikers and even families with children find they can finish the hike in a little over an hour: it isn’t a difficult trek at all. There are usually moose in this area, so keep an eye out for wildlife while walking.

This hike is a fantastic beginner trail, especially if you’re new to winter hiking in Alaska.

Katie Fulmer / AllTrails Make sure to wear good, sturdy snow boots or hiking boots designed especially for winter hiking. It’s also a good idea to pack ice cleats in case some areas of the trail are particularly slippery.

This is a great place to slow down and enjoy the day. Winter in Alaska is stunning, and this is a nice, uncomplicated hike with gratifying scenery.

Katie Fulmer / AllTrails Many bring families or animals out here to take in the scenery. You may come across a few horseback riders on the trail.

You’ll find the most rewarding part of this hike is the stunning views toward the end of the trail.

Katie Fulmer / AllTrails During winter, you’ll see the frozen Eagle River cascading over debris. If you go just a little farther, you’ll come across the famous Barbara Falls. The falls freeze over beautifully in the subzero temperatures.

You’ll find the trailhead off of Eagle River Loop Road, on the Hiland Road side of Eagle River.

Katie Fulmer / AllTrails The trail is accessible all year round. It’s a popular spot that you’ll likely find well-traveled no matter what type of weather we’ve been having. The proximity to Eagle River and the quiet serenity of the area draw in many Alaskan locals to this magnificent spot.

You can get more information about the trail, including a map and photos from other seasons, from our friends at Alltrails.

Katie Fulmer / AllTrails

You’ll hike through some of the most beautiful parts of the Chugach National Forest. The trail follows along the Eagle River, an inlet of the Cook River. In winter, this 40-mile stream is one of the prettiest frozen rivers in Alaska.

It’s a mostly flat trail that has some mild, rolling hills throughout. The entire elevation gain over the whole 4.5-mile trail is only about 643 feet, making it on the easy side when it comes to winter hiking in Alaska.

Many novice hikers and even families with children find they can finish the hike in a little over an hour: it isn’t a difficult trek at all. There are usually moose in this area, so keep an eye out for wildlife while walking.

Make sure to wear good, sturdy snow boots or hiking boots designed especially for winter hiking. It’s also a good idea to pack ice cleats in case some areas of the trail are particularly slippery.

Many bring families or animals out here to take in the scenery. You may come across a few horseback riders on the trail.

During winter, you’ll see the frozen Eagle River cascading over debris. If you go just a little farther, you’ll come across the famous Barbara Falls. The falls freeze over beautifully in the subzero temperatures.

The trail is accessible all year round. It’s a popular spot that you’ll likely find well-traveled no matter what type of weather we’ve been having. The proximity to Eagle River and the quiet serenity of the area draw in many Alaskan locals to this magnificent spot.

Have you visited the River Woods Trail during the winter season? What did you think? Share your experiences in the comments! We also always love hearing about more great trails to check out, so share your candidates for “best winter hikes in Alaska.”

If you’re interested in other winter hikes in Alaska, make sure to read about why Everyone In Alaska Must Visit This Epic Waterfall As Soon As Possible!

 

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Address: Eagle River, Anchorage, AK 99577, USA

The OIYS Visitor Center

Winter Outdoor Activities in Alaska January 24, 2022 Lisa Sammons What are some more of the best winter hikes in Alaska? There are plenty of great spots for winter hiking in Alaska. Check out these 18 trails that we consider some of the most beautiful in the state, especially in the wintertime. The scenery here is magnificent, and hiking is a great way to get out and enjoy it. What are some more things to do outside in the winter in Alaska? From winter hiking to snow tubing to skiing to ice fishing, there’s a surprising amount to do outside in the winter in Alaska! Many think that those of us on the Last Frontier spend our whole winters bundled up inside warm, but winter here is one of the most beautiful and picturesque times to be outdoors. What are some more beautiful frozen rivers in Alaska? Ice fog can be so dangerous, but it’s an incredibly beautiful (if frustrating!) natural phenomenon.

 

The OIYS Visitor Center

Winter Outdoor Activities in Alaska

January 24, 2022

Lisa Sammons

What are some more of the best winter hikes in Alaska? There are plenty of great spots for winter hiking in Alaska. Check out these 18 trails that we consider some of the most beautiful in the state, especially in the wintertime. The scenery here is magnificent, and hiking is a great way to get out and enjoy it. What are some more things to do outside in the winter in Alaska? From winter hiking to snow tubing to skiing to ice fishing, there’s a surprising amount to do outside in the winter in Alaska! Many think that those of us on the Last Frontier spend our whole winters bundled up inside warm, but winter here is one of the most beautiful and picturesque times to be outdoors. What are some more beautiful frozen rivers in Alaska? Ice fog can be so dangerous, but it’s an incredibly beautiful (if frustrating!) natural phenomenon.

The OIYS Visitor Center

The OIYS Visitor Center

There are plenty of great spots for winter hiking in Alaska. Check out these 18 trails that we consider some of the most beautiful in the state, especially in the wintertime. The scenery here is magnificent, and hiking is a great way to get out and enjoy it.

What are some more things to do outside in the winter in Alaska?

From winter hiking to snow tubing to skiing to ice fishing, there’s a surprising amount to do outside in the winter in Alaska! Many think that those of us on the Last Frontier spend our whole winters bundled up inside warm, but winter here is one of the most beautiful and picturesque times to be outdoors.

What are some more beautiful frozen rivers in Alaska?

Ice fog can be so dangerous, but it’s an incredibly beautiful (if frustrating!) natural phenomenon.