Pinnell Mountain Trail

The feel

The Pinnell Mountain National Recreation Trail traverses a series of alpine ridge tops entirely above timberline, about 100 miles northeast of Fairbanks. Rock cairns mark the way across open tundra, with views north to the Yukon River and south to the Alaska Range. Wooden posts show the mileage from Eagle Summit to Twelvemile Summit.

It is a physical challenge. Most of the trail has at least an 8 percent grade, and in many areas it exceeds 25 percent. Switchbacks climb the steep grades, and a few miles of wooden planking carry you over boggy ground. Two shelters offer refuge from storms.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Point-to-point, 27 miles one way with 6033 ft of gain, from Eagle Summit to Twelvemile Summit. Open tundra, cairns and mileposts, switchbacks, and boggy stretches crossed on planking.

Time

About 15 hours of walking.

Crowds and best time

Quiet.

Parking

Eagle Summit is at milepost 107 on the Steese Highway, about a 2.5-hour drive from Fairbanks under good conditions. The trail ends at Twelvemile Summit, milepost 85.5.

Dogs

Allowed.

Kids

Rated hard.

Hazards

Thunderstorms and mountain fog are common in summer, and alpine weather is unpredictable.

Bathrooms and water

Water gets scarce later in summer as snowfields and small ponds dry up. Water is generally available at both shelter cabins, and it should be treated before use.

Mingo says

Treat the weather as the deciding factor, since fog can hide the ridge. Cairns and posts help, so keep your eyes on them when clouds settle in.

Before you go

• Carry a tent, because the two shelter cabins are first-come, first-served emergency shelters.
• Bring at least 2 quarts or liters of water for a day hike, or at least 3 quarts or liters if backpacking.
• Know the shelter spots: Ptarmigan Creek Shelter is 10.1 miles from Eagle Summit, and the North Fork Shelter side trail is at mile 17.8.
• Stay on the switchbacks and do not short-cut them.

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