Government Peak Loop

The feel

Portions of the trail run through the trees and can be quite steep, with two picnic tables along the way. About halfway up, at around 2,500 ft, a signed offshoot leads east to another picnic table with views of a small waterfall.

Above treeline the trail opens up and becomes slightly less steep. At the top the payoff is a far-reaching alpine view of Knik Arm, a vast valley floor and the Knik Glacier, with the countless ridges of the Talkeetna Mountains at your back.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Loop, 6.4 miles, with about 3740 ft of gain, rated hard. The trail travels through forest for 3.5 miles until it reaches the start of an incline, then the slope is unrelenting. The start can be confusing, so follow the signs through the cross-country ski trails to the singletrack trail.

Time

About 5 hours.

Parking

The trailhead is the Government Peak Recreation Area. From Palmer take the Palmer-Fishhook Road toward Hatcher Pass, turn left onto Edgerton Parks Road at mile 7, drive one mile, then turn right on Mountain Trails Drive. No camping or overnight parking is permitted.

Fees and passes

$5 per day or a $40 annual pass.

Dogs

Keep dogs on a leash, clean up after your pet and stay on the trail.

Hazards

Steep sections through the trees; the slope up is a test of endurance.

Bathrooms and water

The chalet offers restrooms.

Season and access

The gate at the bottom of Mountain Trails Drive opens at 8 a.m. and closes at 10 p.m.

Mingo says

The view from the top is the payoff. Read the signs closely at the start, where the ski trails make the route confusing.

Before you go

• Have $5 for the day, or carry the $40 annual pass.
• Be out before the gate closes at 10 p.m.
• Keep your dog on a leash.

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