Angel Creek Hillside Trail

The feel

The trail stays high and contours the hillside, with many scenic views of the valley and surrounding hills. It is a multi-use trail shared with ATVs, bikes and horses, and it leads to the Upper Angel Creek Cabin.

The trail begins at the Upper Chena Dome Trailhead at mile 50.5 of Chena Hot Springs Road. Allowed uses include hiking, biking, horseback riding, snowmobiles, skiing and dog mushing, so expect a mix of users.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Point-to-point, 10 miles one way to the Upper Angel Creek Cabin, with about 600 ft of gain. The grade averages 8% and never exceeds 10%.

Time

About 4.5 hours.

Fees and passes

$5 day use.

Dogs

Allowed, and pets are allowed at the cabin under control.

Hazards

The lowlands are extremely wet and not advised for hikers.

Bathrooms and water

Cabin water is only seasonally available, from snow or creek.

Season and access

Year-round access except during spring break-up, when motorized trails close April 20 through May 24 and only hiking is allowed.

Mingo says

Avoid the break-up weeks, when the motorized trails close. Any other month works, since the cabins are reachable year-round apart from break-up.

Before you go

• Call the Northern Area office at (907) 451-2698 for trail opening dates.
• Reserve the cabin, which is required for 1 to 5 guests and stays of up to 5 nights.
• Bring your own wood for the cabin wood stove.
• Check in and out at 12:00pm.

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