Stiles Creek Trail

The feel

Stiles Creek Trail starts at mile 31.6 Chena Hot Springs Road and ascends gently to a ridgeline that parallels the road, with pleasant valley views at several spots. It is a quieter, less-visited alternative to the recreation area's better-known climbs. The trail runs through paper birch, aspen and white spruce, and moose browse along it. In late summer, highbush cranberries dot the trail.

After 1.75 miles the trail levels out and climbs gently to a hilltop view of Chena Dome. The next five miles are a series of small ridges and saddles. Mile marker 7 is a flat, open area with a great view of the Chena Dome Trail. At mile 12.8 a scenic overlook makes a pleasant place to camp overnight.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Moderate to strenuous, with 1700 to 1900 ft of gain. A gentle ascent to a ridgeline, then a series of small ridges and saddles. The Stiles Creek Cabin sits at 8 miles from the lower trailhead.

Time

About 7.5 hours.

Crowds and best time

A quieter, less-visited alternative to the better-known climbs in the recreation area.

Parking

The lower trailhead is at mile 31.6 Chena Hot Springs Road. The upper trailhead is behind the shooting range at mile 36.4.

Bathrooms and water

There is no water source near the Stiles Creek Cabin, so pack in your own.

Season and access

Open year round for hiking, biking, horseback riding, skiing and snowmobiling. Motorized trails are closed, except for hiking, from April 20th through May 24th.

Mingo says

Come in late summer for the berries and the moose. At spring break-up, only hikers may use the trail.

Before you go

• Pack in all the water you need, since there is no water source near the Stiles Creek Cabin.
• Reserve the Stiles Creek Cabin ahead; reservations are required.
• Camp away from the trail, pack out what you pack in, and bury human waste away from the trail.
• Call the Northern Area office at (907) 451-2695 for the spring closure dates.

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