Twin Peaks (Eklutna)

The feel

The trail switchbacks up through cottonwood, birch and spruce that limit the views at first. About 1 mile up there is a look down the 8-mile length of Eklutna Lake. After the last switchback the trail turns north into the Twin Peaks Valley, and the views open up over the last 0.75 miles.

It ends at an alpine meadow framed by the Twin Peaks and Goat Rock, with a bench overlooking the valley. Dall sheep are often spotted above timberline. Late summer brings berry picking, and on an autumn day the tundra slope glows bright red.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 5.5 miles total, with 1700 ft of gain, climbing from 970 ft to 2670 ft. A steep trail with loose footing in some areas, ending in open tundra.

Time

About 3.5 hours.

Crowds and best time

Late summer and autumn bring berries and fall colors.

Parking

Take the Eklutna exit at Mile 26 of the Glenn Highway and follow the park signs ten miles to Eklutna Lake. Park in the large signed lot to the left.

Fees and passes

$5 daily parking fee, or an annual day use pass.

Hazards

Steep trail with loose footing. The scramble up East Twin Peak beyond the bench follows a steep gully and is beyond most hikers.

Mingo says

Aim for late summer through autumn, when the berries ripen and the tundra turns red. Plan on a steady, steep climb rather than a stroll.

Before you go

• Pay the $5 daily fee or bring an annual day use pass.
• Take the Eklutna exit at Mile 26 of the Glenn Highway and follow the park signs ten miles to Eklutna Lake.
• Stop at the bench at the trail's end unless you are ready for the steep gully up East Twin Peak.

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