Andrew Lekisch Trail

The feel

The trail is a series of little loops with many steep ups and downs, so it feels rolling. At the highest point a foot path leads out to a view of the inlet, with Turnagain Arm, Potter Marsh and the Seward Highway off to the right.

The trail also has views of Cook Inlet and Denali. The trail is named for a promising high school athlete who died in Chugach State Park in 1987.

What to expect

Route and terrain

A loop of 4.7 to 5.3 miles with 626 ft of gain, rated moderate, made of little loops with many steep ups and downs. It starts from the tunnel under Raspberry Road.

Time

About 2.5 hours.

Crowds and best time

Open year-round, and bikes also use the trail.

Parking

The upper parking lot is closer to the chalet and its restrooms.

Fees and passes

No fee for parking.

Dogs

Dogs on leash are allowed outside of ski season.

Hazards

The trail can be overgrown and wet in the morning, and bikes share it. Moose are common in the park.

Bathrooms and water

Bathrooms are available, and the upper parking lot is closer to the chalet and its restrooms.

Season and access

The trail is for skiing only during the winter. After ski season it is open to bikes and walkers.

Mingo says

Come after ski season ends, when the trail opens to walkers and bikes. Early morning or late evening is when moose are most likely to be out.

Before you go

• Park for free, and be out before the gate west of the Raspberry Road trailhead is locked at about 10 PM.
• Use the signed shortcuts back to the chalet, marked 1.3 km, 2.9 km and 5 km, if you want to cut the loop short.
• Keep your dog on a leash.

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