Mount POW/MIA Trail

The feel

The trail leaves Eklutna Lake Road and goes straight up. The first 200 vertical feet are very steep, then the path reaches a long meadow before climbing on to the ridge. The ridge has two high points: Gold Star Peak, with a memorial, and about 1/3 mile further the true summit, where a POW/MIA flag flies.

At the top there is a register and a plaque, and a picnic table sits about 100 feet northwest of the summit when there is little or no snow. The mountain was formally named in 1999 to honor servicemen who were prisoners of war or missing in action. Most people day hike it, and many people are on the trail without it feeling crowded.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 4.6 miles with 2982 ft of gain, rated hard. A steep trail marked with survey tape for about the first 1/2 mile, then a long meadow, then the ridge to Gold Star Peak and the summit.

Time

About 4 to 5 hr round trip.

Crowds and best time

Many people hike it without crowding, and it is busier on Memorial Day weekend. Best from May through October.

Fees and passes

Parking at power pole 74 is free.

Dogs

Dogs are welcome but must be on a lead.

Hazards

Parts of the trail are almost impossible to climb when wet with mud. The wind can be fierce and very cold, and weather can change quickly.

Bathrooms and water

There is no water along the trail, so bring all you need.

Season and access

Best from May through October. From the Glenn Highway north of Anchorage, take the Eklutna Exit at Mile 26 and follow signs toward Eklutna Lake. The trail starts just after mile 4.5 on Eklutna Lake Road.

Mingo says

Pick a dry day with a clear sky. Wet mud makes parts of the climb nearly impossible, and cloud takes away the views that make the summit worth it.

Before you go

• Park in a pullout about half a mile before or after the trailhead, such as at power pole 74, and look for the climb at power pole 85.
• Carry all your water and a warm layer for the wind.
• Skip campfires: fires aren't permitted.

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