Donnelly Dome

The feel

Donnelly Dome is a short, steep climb to a landmark dome south of Delta Junction, with sweeping views of the Alaska Range and the Tanana Valley. It is probably the most popular high country hike in the Delta region.

On the north route, a very steep and slick portion climbs through thick alder, then a broad ridge leads to the summit. The south route has a wide parking area right off the highway. The trail is very steep with some loose rock, and quite a few people have gotten lost here. Toward the top it is often quite cold and windy.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Hard. 2.3 to 2.5 miles out and back, with 1338 to 1650 ft of gain, topping out at 3909 ft. Very steep, with some loose rock. The north route has a slick portion through thick alder and then a broad ridge to the summit.

Time

About 2 hours. Allow half a day.

Crowds and best time

Probably the most popular high country hike in the Delta region.

Parking

North route: about 17 miles south of Delta Junction on the Richardson Highway, turn right onto Dome Road, then drive about 2.6 miles on gravel to a gravel pit parking area on the left. South route: about 20 miles south of Delta Junction, with a wide parking area right off the highway.

Fees and passes

A Sikes Act recreational access permit is required and is free. Hikers 16 years or older must check in to area TA 531 on the USARTRAK iSportsman site.

Hazards

Very steep, with loose rock, and quite a few people have gotten lost. Chinook winds blow hard from the south, and it is often cold and windy near the top. The slick alder section is not recommended in wet weather. The area is U.S. Army training land, and a red flag at the start of Dome Road means it is closed to public use.

Season and access

A red flag at the start of Dome Road means the area is closed to public use for military training. A Sikes Act permit is required.

Mingo says

Check the mountain wind forecast before you drive out. If high or even moderate Chinook winds are expected, pick another day. Skip the north route in wet weather.

Before you go

• Get your free Sikes Act permit and check in to TA 531 on the USARTRAK iSportsman site before you hike; the Delta Junction area check-in number is 907-873-3181.
• Look for a red flag at the start of Dome Road on the north route, which means the area is closed to public use.
• On the south route there is no signage showing where Army land begins, so check in before you leave the parking area.
• Pack a windproof jacket and binoculars.

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