The Ramp

The feel

The first 2.2 miles from the Glen Alps lot can be walked or bicycled, up to the bridge on the left for the Hidden Lake trail. You skip the lake and go up the ridge to the right of it, following a faint trail nearly all the way. It is a gorgeous alpine valley approach with a big-day feel close to town, and you are unlikely to meet many other people.

From Ship Lake Pass the mountainside does look like a ramp, and the climb gains 1,200 feet in about half a mile. The top rewards you with views of the Ship Creek headwaters and the drop toward Williwaw Lakes. The last 20 feet or so are an easy scramble where you use your hands.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 11 miles total, with 2600 ft of gain. An alpine valley approach, a steep climb up the ridge, and an easy scramble for the last 20 feet or so.

Time

About 6 hours.

Crowds and best time

You are unlikely to meet many other people. The best months are June through September.

Parking

The route starts from the Glen Alps lot.

Fees and passes

$5 per day, or an annual Alaska State Parks pass.

Dogs

Dogs are welcome on a leash.

Hazards

The last 30 ft or so are quite exposed, though the footing is good. Standing at the very top is not recommended because of extreme exposure on the north face.

Season and access

June through September.

Mingo says

Aim for June through September. On the way down, take the south side on tundra if your knees want easier walking.

Before you go

• Pay the $5 day fee at Glen Alps, or bring an annual Alaska State Parks pass.
• Bring a bicycle if you want to speed up the first 2.2 miles to the Hidden Lake bridge.
• Keep your dog on a leash.

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