Spencer's Loop

The feel

The loop winds through dense boreal forest and birch groves and along the slopes near the Hilltop Ski Area. Just 500 yards in, it passes near roaring Campbell Creek before climbing along a ridge above a seldom-visited whitewater gorge. Views reach Anchorage, Cook Inlet and Denali.

Olympian Bill Spencer helped design the route. Birders, hikers and walkers all use it, and the route also has views of the Chugach Mountains and the Campbell Creek watershed.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Loop, 4.5 to 6.2 miles, with 611 to 892 ft of gain. A rolling multi-use path through boreal forest and birch groves.

Time

About 2.5 hours.

Crowds and best time

Popular for birding, hiking and walking.

Parking

At the Hilltop Ski Area parking lot.

Dogs

Welcome, but must be on a leash.

Kids

Kid-friendly.

Hazards

Bears claim the stretch along the creek each summer when the fish return. Icy spots and muddy areas.

Season and access

In summer it is a multi-use path for hiking, trail running and mountain biking. In winter it becomes a groomed trail exclusively for cross-country skiing, one direction only.

Mingo says

Hike it in the warm months, because winter turns it into a ski-only trail. Expect mud in early spring.

Before you go

• Carry bear spray when you are near the creek.
• Park at the Hilltop Ski Area lot.
• Keep your dog on a leash.
• Share the path with trail runners and mountain bikers, who use it in summer.

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