Crow Pass to Raven Glacier

The feel

Uphill switchbacks through brush lead to an old miner's road in an alpine area, and then the trail traverses the side of Barnes and Jewel mountains. Rusted remnants of the Monarch Mine camp sit off a fork of the trail, and the mine operated from 1906 to 1948. Beyond a Forest Service cabin at mile 3 is Crystal Lake, surrounded by wildflowers in July.

The alpine areas around Crow Pass are often wet, foggy and windy, so the weather can turn even in midsummer. Mountain goats live near the falls and can become angry if approached too quickly.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 8 miles with about 2100 ft of gain. Switchbacks through brush, then an old miner's road, then the alpine side of Barnes and Jewel mountains. It is the steepest part of the whole trail.

Time

2 to 6 hours round trip.

Crowds and best time

Public use is heavy.

Parking

Parking is free on the Girdwood side. From mile 90 of the Seward Highway, turn onto Alyeska Highway, turn left on Crow Creek Road after two miles and continue five miles. The road to the trailhead is narrow and winding.

Hazards

Do not venture onto Raven Glacier unless properly equipped and trained to handle a crevassed glacier. Arsenic is present in the old mine ruins area. Hypothermia is a risk even in midsummer.

Season and access

Mid June to October, with snow possible through late June. The cabin is closed November to May. Winter travel is not recommended because of avalanche danger.

Mingo says

Go from mid June through October, once the late June snow has gone. Stay off Raven Glacier itself unless you are equipped and trained for a crevassed glacier.

Before you go

• Reserve the Forest Service cabin in advance, since it is used only with a paid reservation.
• Pack warm, rainproof layers for the pass.
• Call the Glacier Ranger District at 907-783-3242.

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