Hillside Trail System in Chugach State Park

Chugach State Park's 495,000 acres of forests, lakes, mountains and valleys are at Anchorage's doorstep - and the welcome mat is out. Just a 20-minute drive from downtown places you on the edge of a trail system offering quiet solitude and wilderness beauty in every season.

The trail system offers established trails as well as general travel routes of variety degrees of difficulty. There are trails for summer hiking and those for winter outdoor sports. Some of the trails intended for summer use can be poor candidates for winter use due to avalanches and other natural hazards. Access to the trailheads is shown on the map inside. Upper Huffman is the only snow vehicle access point.

Variety is the pleasure of the outdoor recreationist, but one person's choice of activities may conflict with another's. Please be considerate of other park users, and confine your recreational choices to appropriate areas and seasons. Following a few simple rules and helpful hints outlined in this brochure can mean a better recreational experience for you and for others.

Safety is of paramount importance to all users of the Hillside Trail System. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the park. Extreme weather, including strong winds, rain, snow, and extreme cold may be encountered in any season, and changes can take place with little notice. Be prepared by carrying adequate food and clothing to protect yourself from the elements. Know basic winter survival techniques, and don't overextend your skills and equipment.

Picnic sites are provided at the scenic Susitna View Picnic Area located at Upper Huffman. Individual picnic tables are secluded at sites among the trees. Please, no open fires.

If you are planning on overnight or an extended trip into the back country, leave a trip plan or itinerary with family or friends. Give information about your route, departure and return times, and a description of the clothing you'll be wearing. Be sure to contact them when you return.

Avalanches can occur anywhere, but gullies, steep snow-covered slopes, and areas below steep ridges are particularly susceptible. The majority of avalanches happen shortly after heavy, sustained snowfalls. The Hillside Trail System is in an area if minimal avalanche danger, but off-trail travel on or near gullies and chutes should be avoided. Some trails, such as Powerline Pass, are not recommended for use during periods of high avalanche danger.

Park rangers are good sources of current avalanche information. If a member of your party is caught in an avalanche, first use your own resources for rescue, then go for professional rescue help.

Suggested Trips in the Hillside Trail System.

Flat Top Mountain Shuttle
The Flattop Mountain Shuttle provides van transportation from downtown Anchorage to the Glen Alps trailhead and back for only $22.

Chugach Hillside Brochure and Map

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