Resurrection Pass Trail

The feel

This is a 39 mile backcountry trail from Hope over Resurrection Pass to Cooper Landing, climbing from 500 to 2600 feet. From the south the first 3 miles climb gradually through spruce and birch forest above the Kenai River, then the grade levels off in the wide Juneau Creek valley past lakes, muskegs and groves of aspens. After 13 miles it climbs above the trees into an alpine valley.

Eight public use cabins sit along the route, and you can fish in Trout, Juneau and Swan Lakes or climb any of the ridges that line the trail for wide mountain views. It is remote and wild country.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Point-to-point, 39 miles, climbing from 500 to 2600 feet, with 2200 to 3517 ft of gain. Forest, lake and muskeg country gives way to an alpine valley.

Time

2 to 4 days one way.

Crowds and best time

Public use is moderate.

Parking

North trailhead: at mile 15 Hope Highway in Hope turn south onto Resurrection Creek Road and travel 4 miles to trailhead parking. South trailhead: at mile 53.2 Sterling Highway turn north into the trailhead parking area.

Fees and passes

Cabins are $75 per night; no fee is stated for the trail itself.

Hazards

Two major avalanche chutes at mile 9.6 and 10. Snow can remain at higher elevations until mid-June. Bears, weather and water call for care in this remote area.

Bathrooms and water

Cabins have no running water. Boil surface water 5 minutes before drinking.

Season and access

Year-round. Closed to motorized vehicles from May 1 to November 30 and to pack and saddle stock from April 1 to June 30.

Mingo says

Plan on summer for the alpine valley, because the high ground holds snow into mid-June. The first 5 miles from the north can be icy in winter.

Before you go

• Reserve cabins at Recreation.gov or 1-877-444-6777, up to 180 days ahead; check-in and check-out are at 12 p.m.
• Bring your own bedding, cooking utensils, a cooking stove, cut firewood and an initial supply of water.
• Bring extra supplies of 2 to 5 days.
• 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.