Blueberry Knoll Loop

The feel

The loop starts from the Glen Alps lot and climbs to a knoll with panoramic views of the Chugach. It begins easy, then turns steep for about a half mile, with little shade on the way up. The trail sits at 2197 ft and tops out at 2654 ft.

It is a gentler option than Flattop. Moose are sometimes seen along the way, and in the fall the hillside is a great place to pick blueberries.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Loop, 1.5 to 1.6 miles, with 324 to 456 ft of gain, starting easy and then climbing a steep half mile to the knoll.

Time

0.5 to 1 hour.

Crowds and best time

Best time of year is April 1 to November 30.

Parking

The trail starts from the Glen Alps lot, at the end of Toilsome Road.

Fees and passes

$5 day use. All Chugach State Park trails require a day-use parking pass or decal.

Dogs

Welcome on a leash.

Hazards

A steep climb with little shade. Some snow depending on the time of year. Moose are sometimes seen, and bear spray is worth carrying.

Season and access

Best from April 1 to November 30.

Mingo says

Go in fall, when the blueberries are ripe along the loop. For a winter hike, bring spikes or snowshoes.

Before you go

• Pay the $5 day-use fee or display a parking pass or decal.
• Carry bear spray.
• To reach Glen Alps, take O'Malley Road toward the mountains, turn right on Hillside Drive, left at Upper Huffman, then follow Toilsome Road to the end.

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