Charlie Dome Trail

The feel

The trail winds through boreal spruce forest before breaking above the treeline near the summit. At the top the terrain opens completely, with 360 degree views. The Chena Hills roll out in every direction, and on a clear day the Alaska Range shows along the southern horizon.

The trail ends at the yurts on top of Charlie Dome, and it suits advanced hikers and skiers. Black bears, grizzly bears and moose inhabit the area.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 4.5 miles total, about 2.25 miles one way to the yurts, with about 1,300 ft of gain. Through spruce forest, then open above treeline near the summit. A longer option runs 3 miles one way to the end of an ATV trail.

Time

1.5 to 2.5 hours one way.

Dogs

Allowed.

Hazards

Black bears, grizzly bears and moose; make noise while hiking. Do not hike alone.

Cell signal

Limited on the trails.

Bathrooms and water

No reliable water sources on most trails; bring plenty of water.

Mingo says

Choose a clear day if the far horizon matters to you. Mosquitoes are active in summer, so cover up.

Before you go

• Tell someone your route and expected return time.
• Bring bug spray or a head net, and layers.
• To ride instead, the resort runs a guided side-by-side ATV tour up the trail, 45 minutes for $75 per person, at 9am, 11am, 1pm and 3pm, for ages 5 and up.

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