Westmark Picks for Top Day Hikes in Alaska and the Yukon

Posted in Things To Do In Alaska, Things To Do In The Yukon

Hikers in Southeast Alaska

Hikers in Southeast Alaska

There is no better way to experience the Great North than to step out into nature and take in the surroundings .. Little in this world beats the rush that accompanies scaling a mountain or discovering the view of towering glaciated peaks and crystal blue lakes. Alaska’s dense woodland forests and abundant wildlife make each hike a unique experience. Where else in the world can you encounter moose, arctic foxes, bald eagles, and diverse marine life just minutes from your hotel?

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

View of Flattop Mountain in Anchorage, Alaska

View of Flattop Mountain in Anchorage, Alaska

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.

Juneau: East Glacier Trail

The East Glacier Trail is a 2.8-mile loop off the Trail of Time near the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. Hike this moderate to intermediate trail for spectacular views of Mendenhall Glacier. Most of the trail is a gently rising path along Glacier Valley with a few switchbacks near its end. A short side-trail leads to a waterfall 1.3 miles from the trailhead. This trail is also a fun and challenging running route for backcountry runners. Ask the staff of the Westmark Baranof Hotel about other activities around Mendenhall Glacier. For your East Glacier Trail hike, stay at the historic Westmark Baranof Hotel in downtown Juneau.

Skagway: Gold Rush Cemetery and Lower Reid Falls

Tombstone of Soapy Smith in Gold Rush Cemetery. Skagway, Alaska

Tombstone of Soapy Smith in Gold Rush Cemetery. Skagway, Alaska

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.

Whitehorse – Grey Mountain Trail

Only about five miles from Whitehorse is Grey Mountain, a fun Yukon day hike with terrific view of the city and surrounding area. There are multiple trails along the mountain’s ridge that all arrive at the same place. Be sure to follow the most developed trail to prevent further erosion. One of the things hikers love about this trail is that the short mile-long walk up from the trailhead to the summit means more of the hike is up high on the ridge where you will encounter unobstructed 360-degree views. For your Grey Mountain Trail hike, stay at the Westmark Whitehorse Hotel & Conference Center.

Sitka – Sitka National Historical Park

Almost everywhere in Sitka is walking distance from the Westmark Sitka Hotel, and so is this trail! This easy one-hour walk meanders through a park commemorating the site of the Battle of Sitka, the last major battle between the Tlingit Indians and Russians in 1804, and totem poles line hiking trails throughout the park. While the walk is only 1.5 miles, we recommend taking your time walking through this rainforest and absorbing the wonderful surroundings. For your Grey Mountain Trail hike stay at the Westmark Sitka Hotel.

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.