Crow Pass Traverse

The feel

The traverse runs on foot from the Crow Creek Trailhead in Girdwood to the Eagle River Nature Center, along the Iditarod National Historic Trail. The trail is on foot only and crosses Raven Creek on a bridge over Raven Gorge.

About halfway, you ford Eagle River. The crossing is 150 to 200 feet across, and the water runs from knee-high to waist-high from day to day. Most people take two to three days, and moose and bears use the Eagle River and Raven Creek valleys.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Point to point, 21 to 23.1 miles with about 2100 ft of gain from the Girdwood end. Moderately difficult, with some scrambling and river fording.

Time

Most people take two to three days. A one-day traverse needs at least 12 hours for the average hiker.

Parking

Free at the Girdwood end and $5 a day at the Eagle River Nature Center. There is no public transportation to either trailhead.

Hazards

The Eagle River water is extremely cold. Glacial rivers swell under hot sun or heavy rain and are usually lowest in the early morning. Moose and bears live in the valleys, so announce your presence.

Season and access

Late June through September. Winter travel is not recommended because of high avalanche danger on the Girdwood side.

Mingo says

Plan the river for early morning, when glacial water runs lowest. Skip winter, when the Girdwood side carries high avalanche danger.

Before you go

• Cross only at the marked ford sites with white posts. Test depth with a walking stick and never cross barefoot.
• Arrange a ride or a second car, because no public transportation reaches either trailhead.
• Open fires are prohibited except in a metal fire ring at a designated campsite or on the gravel bars of Eagle River, so bring a portable camp stove.
• Chugach State Park: 907-345-5014. Eagle River Nature Center: 907-694-2108.

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