Little Coal Creek Trail

The feel

This is the northernmost trail with access to Kesugi Ridge, and it reaches Denali views in the shortest time of any of the access trails, about 1.5 hours. Lower elevations are forested, then the route opens into rolling alpine and subalpine terrain with outstanding views of Denali.

Up on the ridge there is almost no shade and little shelter from inclement weather. Black and brown bears live here, so make noise and carry bear deterrents. It works as a day hike, with no overnight pack required.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 6.2 miles total, with 1750 to 1906 ft of gain. Forest below, then open alpine tundra with Alaska Range views. Rated moderate.

Time

About 4 hours; about 1.5 hours to reach Denali views.

Crowds and best time

Parking may be crowded on weekends.

Parking

A lot at milepost 163.9 on the Parks Highway.

Dogs

Leashed in the parking lot and under voice control on the trail.

Hazards

Weather can change fast, with almost no shade or shelter on the ridge. Black and brown bears live here, and some trails close seasonally for high bear concentrations.

Mingo says

Aim for a clear day, since the Denali view is the payoff. Skip the climb on days of bad weather, because the ridge offers little cover.

Before you go

• Make noise on the trail and carry bear deterrents.
• Arrive on a weekday if you can; the lot may be crowded on weekends.
• Carry proper clothing and navigation tools in case low clouds move in.
• Call the Mat-Su Area Parks Office at (907) 745-3975 about closures.

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