Near Point

The feel

Forest switchbacks pop you onto open tundra, and you quickly climb above the trees to a panorama of the city and Cook Inlet. From the rounded alpine knob at the top you can see Anchorage, the Alaska Range, Denali, Mt. Susitna, Wolverine Peak and Canyon Creek.

Below treeline the trail is muddy, and above it you walk on a mix of snow, bare rock and tundra. In late summer people carry a blueberry bucket up here, since berry picking is part of the fall hike.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 6.8 miles total, with 2100 to 2300 ft of gain, climbing from 1070 ft to 3041 ft. Forest switchbacks, then open tundra and rock.

Time

About 4 hours.

Crowds and best time

Best from June to September.

Parking

From Basher Drive, turn onto Kalmia Drive, left on Shivalik Circle, then first right onto Aletha's Mountain Way and park in the designated spots. If they are full, park at the Dome Trailhead and walk up the road. The Prospect Heights lot is another way in.

Fees and passes

The Stuckagain Heights lot is free. The Prospect Heights lot charges $5, exact amount, and an annual pass is $60.

Dogs

Dogs are welcome. On the trail they must be under control, and in the parking lot they must be on a leash.

Hazards

Mud below treeline, snow and ice above it. Spikes help on packed snow and ice.

Bathrooms and water

Bring your own water, because there are no real water sources after the bridge on the Prospect Heights route.

Season and access

Open year-round. Best from June to September.

Mingo says

Aim for June through September. Save a late-summer day for the berries.

Before you go

• Bring your own water for the whole climb.
• Pack traction spikes if you go in spring or after snow.
• Carry exact change for the $5 Prospect Heights lot, or use the free Stuckagain Heights spots.

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