Purinton Creek Trail

The feel

Purinton Creek Trail is part of the historic Chickaloon-Knik-Nelchina Trail System, a long multi-use route off the Glenn Highway. In early summer Dall sheep almost always give birth low on the mountain sides, and moose are there all the time.

The creek itself heads on Anthracite Ridge and flows southwest to the Matanuska River. Runners, bikers and ATV riders use the trail as well as hikers, and crossing Boulder Creek takes care.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Point-to-point, 12.9 miles with 2486 ft of gain, rising from 2350 ft to 4836 ft. Rated hard. Boulder Creek has to be crossed.

Time

About 7 hours.

Crowds and best time

Early summer brings Dall sheep low on the mountain sides.

Parking

The Purinton Creek Trailhead is at Glenn Highway mile 90.7. Parking and camping are prohibited on the private property the trail crosses.

Hazards

Be careful crossing Boulder Creek. Moose are always around.

Season and access

The trail begins at approximately mile 89.5 of the Glenn Highway.

Mingo says

Go in early summer if you want the Dall sheep. Take the Boulder Creek crossing slowly.

Before you go

• Do not park or camp on the private property along the trail.
• Plan a full day, since the route is point-to-point and rated hard.
• Give moose room, since they are there all the time.

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