McHugh Creek Wayside

The feel

McHugh Creek is a day use area on the mountain side of the Seward Highway at Mile 111.7, with picnic tables, charcoal barbecues and latrines. The middle parking lot sits higher than the rest and looks out over Turnagain Arm. A paved walkway with a railing and seating overlooks McHugh Creek as it empties into Cook Inlet.

The trailhead is also a link in the Turnagain Arm Trail, which parallels the highway and railroad below and follows a support route made during the building of the railroad in the 1910's. Views of the Arm and the first spring wildflowers are the draw for walkers.

What to expect

What it is

A day use area in Chugach State Park with picnic sites, a paved overlook walkway and a trailhead on the Turnagain Arm Trail.

Crowds and best time

The lot is smaller than the one at Glen Alps and fills on peak summer weekends. Arriving before 9am avoids the crowd.

Parking

On the east, mountain side of the Seward Highway at Mile 111.7, fifteen miles south of Anchorage. The middle lot has spots that overlook the Arm.

Fees and passes

$5 per vehicle per day. Overnight parking needs two days ($10). A calendar-year annual decal is $60.

Bathrooms and water

Toilets and latrines on site.

Season and access

ADA accessible. From the trailhead, the Turnagain Arm Trail runs 3.3 miles to Potter and 4.2 miles to Rainbow.

Mingo says

Come on a weekday or arrive before 9am, since the lot fills on summer weekends. Spring is the time for the first wildflowers along the trail.

Before you go

• Bring $5 for the day's parking, or an annual decal.
• Call Chugach State Park at (907) 345-5014 with questions.
• Bring food if you plan to use the picnic tables or charcoal barbecues.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.