Mount Marathon

The feel

Mount Marathon is the route of Seward's July 4th race, and the hiking trail climbs the same mountain but does not go to the peak. It starts on an old jeep road through almost a mile of mossy rainforest, crosses the brushy and often wet Bench Trail, and then climbs the Skyline Trail along the ridge to Race Point.

Race Point is a false summit that is clearly visible from downtown Seward. The views look over Resurrection Bay, and the footing on the Skyline is steep with loose scree.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back of 4 to 6 miles with 2,930 to 3000 ft of gain, in three parts: the Jeep Trail, the Bench Trail and the Skyline Trail, ending at Race Point.

Time

About 3.5 hours.

Crowds and best time

Typical season is June to September.

Parking

The trailhead is a small yellow gate marked "Mount Marathon Hiking Trail" at Monroe Street and First Avenue.

Fees and passes

No parking fee.

Hazards

Past Race Point the footing is loose and dangerously sketchy. The Bench Trail is brushy and wet, and it is easy to surprise moose or bears there. The runners' trail starts at a different trailhead and is not recommended.

Season and access

Typical season is June to September; in winter bring spikes or snowshoes.

Mingo says

Plan this for June through September, and turn around at Race Point. Make plenty of noise on the Bench Trail so wildlife hears you coming.

Before you go

• Use the small yellow gate at Monroe Street and First Avenue, not the runners' trailhead with the many warning signs.
• Wear sturdy footwear and bring hiking poles.
• Stop at Race Point, since continuing upward means loose, dangerously sketchy footing.

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