Turnagain Pass Trail

The feel

This is a segment of the Iditarod National Historic Trail that starts at the top of Turnagain Pass. From the rest area the trail climbs steadily through spruce and hemlock forest, then rises above the alders and pitches steeply up to a viewpoint at the northwest end of Kickstep Mountain's ridge.

The second half is subalpine and open, with rolling terrain and views of Tincan Mountain and the range around it. There is room to wander off the trail, and hardened campsites with bear boxes make it possible to stay out. The pass draws mountain bikers, backcountry skiers, snowboarders, Nordic skiers and fat-tire bikers.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 6.3 to 6.5 miles total, with 800 to 2,457 ft of gain. Forest and steady climbing at first, then a steep push to the viewpoint and rolling subalpine ground. High point 1300 ft, start elevation 970 ft. Rated hard.

Time

3 hours to 4 h 24 min.

Crowds and best time

The trail is popular with mountain bikers, backcountry skiers, snowboarders, Nordic skiers and fat-tire bikers. The nearby Tincan pullout fills often.

Parking

The Center Ridge parking lot and rest area is on the east side of the Seward Highway at the top of the pass. The Tincan pullout sits on a curve with high highway speeds.

Dogs

Allowed, on a leash.

Hazards

A steep climb to the viewpoint. Carry bear spray. The Tincan pullout is on a curve with high highway speeds.

Bathrooms and water

Restrooms at the Center Ridge rest area.

Season and access

Year round. Access is from the Seward Highway at the top of Turnagain Pass.

Mingo says

The trail is open year round, and it is closed to over-the-snow motorized use. The west side of the pass is the snowmachine side, with a lot that is often crowded in season.

Before you go

• Park at the Center Ridge lot and rest area, not the Tincan pullout on the highway curve.
• Pack bear spray and keep your dog on a leash.
• Tell someone your plan before you start up the ridge.
• Staying overnight? Use the hardened campsites, which have bear boxes.

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