Resurrection Pass North to Caribou Creek

The feel

The trail leaves the road end near Hope on a level path with some steeper grades and switchbacks. It is well maintained, though it can be muddy in places and downed trees can slow you down. The first 15 miles pass through dead trees killed by spruce bark beetle.

Moose and bears share the country, and the trail is popular with hikers and mountain bikers.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 14 miles with about 900 ft of gain; 7 miles one way to Caribou Creek Cabin. Level path with some steep grades and switchbacks, well maintained but muddy in places.

Time

About 6 hours.

Crowds and best time

Public use is moderate.

Parking

At mile 15 on the Hope Highway, turn south onto Resurrection Creek Road and drive 4 miles to the trailhead parking. The last mile is not plowed in winter.

Fees and passes

The cabin costs $75/night plus a non-refundable Recreation.gov service fee.

Hazards

Bears and moose; rapid weather changes; downed trees on the trail year round; dead beetle-killed trees are a major fire hazard.

Bathrooms and water

An outhouse at the cabin. No running water there, so bring water or boil surface water 5 minutes before drinking it.

Season and access

Open year-round. The trail is closed to motorized vehicles May 1 to November 30 and to pack and saddle stock April 1 to June 30.

Mingo says

Pick a dry day, because the trail can be muddy and the weather changes quickly. If you stay at the cabin, bring extra supplies in case a storm stretches your trip.

Before you go

• Reserve the cabin at Recreation.gov or 1-877-444-6777, up to 180 days ahead. Check-in and check-out are at 12 p.m.
• Bring sleeping bags and pads, a cook stove, cooking gear and food. The cabin has no mattress, bedding, utensils or cut firewood.
• Call the Seward Ranger District at (907) 288-3178, Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.

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