Indian Valley Trail

The feel

The trail crosses Indian Creek several times as it climbs gradually through old growth forest. Higher up, brush and alder give way to a panoramic alpine landscape near Indian Creek Pass. The open terrain near the pass invites camping and exploring, and Ship Lake can be reached from the Indian Pass area.

It is a long, gradual forest-to-tundra march and the quiet backdoor into the Chugach interior. Parts of the trail can be difficult to follow in the grass and brush of the sub-alpine.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 13 miles total, with about 2000 ft of gain. Old growth forest, several creek crossings, then alder and brush giving way to alpine tundra at the pass.

Time

About 6.5 hours.

Parking

The Indian Creek Trailhead is at milepost 103 of the Seward Highway.

Fees and passes

Parking is $5 day use with a state park pass accepted.

Dogs

Allowed.

Hazards

Parts of the trail are hard to follow in the sub-alpine grass and brush. Avalanche prone areas exist near the pass.

Season and access

Bikes are prohibited. Camping is permitted only over half a mile from the trailhead or developed road, limited to 10 consecutive days; open fires are not permitted except in a camp stove for cooking.

Mingo says

Choose a snow-free day, because avalanche prone areas sit near the pass. The area is subject to trapping during winter months.

Before you go

• Leave your bike at home; bikes are prohibited.
• Carry a camp stove if you plan to camp more than half a mile from the trailhead.
• Call Fort Richardson at 384-0296 about a Recreation Access Permit before the Arctic to Indian traverse.
• Expect trapping in winter months.

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