Alyeska North Face

The feel

The trail starts behind the tram building at the Hotel Alyeska as an unpaved maintenance road, then climbs a series of switchbacks up what is double black diamond ski terrain in winter. It is wide and well defined. About two-thirds of the way up it steepens, chains are placed as handholds, and wooden stairs help near the upper tram pocket. It crosses underneath the aerial tramway several times.

From the upper face at least six glaciers come into view. The trail ends below the tram station at a flight of metal stairs into a building with restaurants, restrooms and a small museum, and most people grab a bite or a beer at the Bore Tide Deli.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 4.4 to 5 miles with 2000 to 2,075 ft of gain. The 2.2 mile trail mixes road and single-track with switchbacks, climbs 2,000 vertical feet to the Upper Tram Terminal, and has a few boggy, wet spots.

Time

About 3 hours.

Parking

Most people park in the Alyeska Resort lot and walk to the tram building. No parking fee.

Fees and passes

The ride down the tram is complimentary for hikers who make it to the top.

Hazards

Steep, with chains placed as handholds two-thirds of the way up, and the trail is rated hard.

Bathrooms and water

Restrooms are in the building at the top.

Season and access

June to October, hiking only. In winter it is ski terrain. On 14 June 2023 it was closed due to high snow pack.

Mingo says

Hike it from June to October. Plan around the tram schedule so you have a ride down.

Before you go

• Check the tram schedule before you start. The ride down is allowed if space allows, and there is no guarantee the tram is operating.
• Call the Tram Ticket Office on the second floor of The Hotel Alyeska at 907-754-2275.
• Expect the tram ride down to take seven minutes.

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