Rendezvous Peak

The feel

The trail starts at Arctic Valley Ski Area and passes beneath the ski lifts. The first mile to the saddle is a relatively gentle climb. After the saddle it traverses half a mile along the ridgeline, then turns sharply right and becomes steeper, but it is still manageable even for young children. It is known to be muddy in sections.

From the 4,101 foot summit you see the Anchorage Bowl, Cook Inlet, Knik and Turnagain Arms, Mount Foraker and Denali. The old Nike missile site, Site Summit, is visible but off limits.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 3.3 to 3.5 miles total, with 1400 to 1,446 ft of gain; about 1 mile to the saddle on a gentle grade, then a steeper push to the summit.

Time

2 to 3 hours.

Crowds and best time

Arrive early on summer weekends to find a parking spot.

Parking

Park in the upper lot at Arctic Valley Ski Area, at the end of about 6 miles of unpaved washboard road that is often rutted.

Fees and passes

$5 per vehicle for the day, paid at the kiosk in the upper parking lot. Alaska State Parks passes are not accepted.

Dogs

Dogs are welcome on a leash.

Kids

Manageable even for young children.

Hazards

Muddy sections. The access road crosses military land, with fines for trespassing, and Site Summit is off limits.

Bathrooms and water

Public toilets at the trailhead.

Season and access

June to October, with March through October also named as a good window. The Arctic Valley gate is open 6am to 10pm. Mountain biking and all motorized use are closed.

Mingo says

Hike from June to October, the typical season. Leave the valley before the gate closes at 10pm.

Before you go

• Bring $5 for parking at the kiosk, since State Parks passes do not work here.
• Be out through the gate by 10pm; it opens at 6am.
• Expect delays on the road during live fire exercises, when traffic flows every 20-30 minutes in each direction. Report longer waits to JBER Range Control at 907-384-6230.
• Carry bear spray.

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