
Hiking in Alaska can be as easy as stepping out the door of your hotel, and we’ve compiled a few of our favorite day hikes which are easily accessible from Westmark properties around Alaska and the Yukon.Without further adieu, here are the top day hikes in Alaska and the Yukon according to Westmark Hotels!
Anchorage: Flat Top Mountain
It’s easy to spot Flat Top Mountain, nestled among numerous pointy crests in the Chugach Mountain Range, this peak is easily identified by its broad, flat top. This trail is extremely popular among locals and visitors alike thanks to its proximity to the city and ease of access. Though nearly all uphill, this is a relatively moderate hike with plenty of scenic resting stops along the way. The parking lot alone provides a view worth the short drive from the Westmark Hotel in downtown Anchorage. For your Flat Top Mountain hike accommodations, stay at the Westmark Anchorage Hotel.Fairbanks: Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge
Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge is the perfect destination for a family-friendly day trip. Share the trails, wetlands, ponds and open fields with fellow visitors as well as wildlife on this 2,000-acre state-owned refuge that is home to historic dairy buildings and farm fields, now used solely by migratory waterfowl and other wildlife. For your Creamer’s Field Migratory Water Fowl Refuge hike, stay at the Westmark Fairbanks Hotel & Conference Center.
Skagway: Gold Rush Cemetery and Lower Reid Falls
Looking to walk along the same trails used by pioneers in the Gold Rush era but don’t want to spend a week backpacking the entire Chilkoot Trail? Stay at the Westmark Inn Skagway and enjoy several day hikes right out of Skagway that showcase the history of the Klondike Gold Rush. A short forest trail behind the Gold Rush Cemetery leads to the picturesque Lower Reid Falls. This is another family-friendly hike that will leave plenty of time to explore the rest of the city’s attractions. For your Tombstone of Soapy Smith and Gold Rush Cemetery hike, stay at the Westmark Skagway Inn.Dawson City – Ridge Road Heritage Trail
Right outside of Dawson City, Yukon and a short drive from the Westmark Inn Dawson City is a 20-mile route that explores the mining history of the Yukon. Ridge Road Heritage Trail is a recreation route built during the Klondike Gold Rush and the first wagon road built by the Yukon Government. In 1996 the road was designated a Yukon Territory Heritage Trail. Today it is used for hiking, backpacking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Though it takes two to three days to complete the entire trail, you can make a short day hike out of this outstanding trail by starting from one of the trailheads and walking for a few hours before turning back. For your Ridge Road Heritage Trail hike stay at the Westmark Inn Dawson City.