Carle Wagon Trail

The feel

This is a quiet forest walk on a non-motorized wagon road that starts half a mile east of the Government Peak chalet. Two wooden bridges carry you over water crossings that were once impassable, built in summer 2017 for both walkers and horses.

The bridges open up country east of the main Government Peak trails. Hikers share the route with riders, since the area is open to horses and non-motorized hikers. The Backcountry Horseman Trail and the Carle Wagon trail are the two in the area that allow both.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 4.6 miles total, with 690 ft of gain, on a 1.8 mile non-motorized wagon road through forest with two bridged crossings. The high point is 1448 ft.

Time

About 2.5 hours.

Crowds and best time

Quiet.

Parking

The parking area and main trailhead are on Mountain Trails Drive, past the gate. From Palmer, take the Palmer-Fishhook Road toward Hatcher Pass, turn left onto Edgerton Parks Road at mile 7, drive one mile, then turn right onto Mountain Trails Drive.

Fees and passes

A $5 single use day pass or an annual parking pass is required at this Mat-Su Borough trailhead.

Dogs

Allowed.

Kids

Rated easy.

Hazards

Horses share the route.

Bathrooms and water

The Government Peak chalet has restrooms and water fountains when open, plus an outdoor outhouse.

Season and access

The gate at the bottom of Mountain Trails Drive opens at 8 am and closes at 10 pm.

Mingo says

Be back at your car before 10 pm, when the trailhead gate closes. Step aside and give horses room, because riders use the same wagon road.

Before you go

• Buy the $5 day pass or carry an annual parking pass.
• Plan on the gate hours of 8 am to 10 pm.
• Use the chalet restrooms before you start, as they are open only when the chalet is open.

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