Rippy Trail

The feel

Rippy Trail runs along the mountain side above the Knik River Valley. It was built to sustainable trail standards and finished in 2014. It crosses Jim Creek on a 55 foot bridge at the mouth of a sheer rock-walled canyon, then loops back on itself.

The views take in Pioneer Peak, Knik Arm, Knik Glacier and the nearby wetlands. Hikers, runners, mountain bikers and ATV riders all use it.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, about 5.7 miles total with 967 ft of gain, ending in a turnaround loop after the Jim Creek bridge. Rated moderate.

Time

About 3 hours.

Crowds and best time

Often busy with motorized traffic on weekends. Other times it can offer solitude for hiking, running and mountain biking.

Parking

The Jim Lake parking lot, a minimally developed state lot at the north end of Jim Lake, reached by the minimally maintained Maud Road Extension.

Dogs

Trapping takes place on this trail, so dog owners should be aware.

Hazards

Motorized traffic is common, and trapping takes place on the trail.

Season and access

Open all year. The trail starts after the shooting range, at a curve where the road turns south down to Jim Lake.

Mingo says

Go on a weekday if you want quiet. Weekends bring motorized traffic along the trail.

Before you go

• Plan for the Maud Road Extension, which is minimally maintained.
• Keep dogs close, because trapping takes place on this trail.
• Just after the Jim Creek bridge, the Chain Lakes Trail continues for pedestrian use.

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