East Twin Peak Trail

The feel

The Twin Peaks Trail leaves the Eklutna Lake trailhead and climbs fast on an old road bed with excellent footing, passing a park bench and reaching a second one at treeline. Above timberline you reach an alpine meadow framed by Twin Peaks and Goat Rock, where Dall sheep are often spotted.

East Twin is the highest and most accessible of the three Twins, and it sees only two or three dozen ascents a year. The reward is the whole Eklutna valley underfoot.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 8.2 miles total, with 4812 ft of gain. The first 2.6 miles climb 1800 feet on an old road bed, then the main south gully brings a lot of scree. The high point is 5838 ft.

Time

About 6.5 hours out and back; car to summit takes 3 to 6 hours.

Crowds and best time

Only two or three dozen ascents a year.

Parking

Park near the boat launch at Eklutna Lake. Take the Eklutna or Thunderbird Falls exit from the Glenn Highway about 26 miles north of Anchorage and follow signs to the lake.

Fees and passes

$5 per day at the trailhead unless you have an annual parking pass. A state park pass is accepted.

Dogs

Allowed.

Hazards

Rockfall danger in the south gully, and a lot of scree. If the north face is icy, the final steps can be sketchy.

Season and access

Summer and fall. The mountain is managed as part of Chugach State Park, and park regulations apply.

Mingo says

Plan this for summer or fall. Helmets are advisable on this mountain.

Before you go

• Bring exact change for the $5 day fee, or carry an annual parking pass.
• Wear a helmet; rockfall is a danger in the south gully.
• If the north face is icy, the final steps to the summit can be sketchy.

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