Flattop Peaks 2 & 3

The feel

This is the hike for people who want to push past Flattop along an airy ridge. The Sunnyside Flattop trail switches back uphill to a small saddle between Flattop and Peak 2, with social trails running off toward the pointed summit of Peak 3.

Between the peaks the trail follows the ridge. It is less traveled and sometimes hard to follow, and there are views to both sides. Few people were seen past Flattop. The lower part of Peak 2 is a narrow trail with alders pushing in, and the upper parts are loose gravel. The scrambling and the exposure are real, and it is not for the wobbly.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 6 miles total, with 2500 ft of gain. Switchbacks to the saddle, then ridge walking and scrambling over Peak 2 and Peak 3.

Time

3.5 to 4 hours.

Crowds and best time

Few people go beyond Flattop. The best months are May through September.

Parking

The Sunnyside Flattop trailhead is on Upper Canyon Road about 1,000 feet before the road dead-ends, with a pay station and a small dedicated lot. If it is full, park off the side of the rough, rocky road.

Fees and passes

$5 day use, or an Alaska State Parks pass. Credit cards are accepted.

Dogs

Dogs are welcome on a lead.

Hazards

Loose gravel on the upper parts of Peak 2, scrambling and exposure on the ridge, and avalanche hazard in winter. Climbers above you on Flattop can dislodge rocks.

Bathrooms and water

No water source on the Flattop trail, so carry your own.

Season and access

Typically May to October.

Mingo says

Come between May and October. Keep your eyes open for the route along the ridge between the peaks, where the trail is less traveled.

Before you go

• Pay the $5 at the trailhead pay station, or bring an Alaska State Parks pass.
• Carry your own water for the whole route.
• Wear sturdy footwear with grip for loose gravel and scrambling.
• Bring warm clothing, because the Flattop summit is often cold and windy.

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