Twin Peaks Trail

The feel

Twin Peaks Trail starts at Eklutna Lake in Chugach State Park and goes straight uphill. Switchbacks climb steeply through the trees, and the views of the lake open up behind you with every turn. The route is out and back, rated hard, with 1,800 to 2,000 ft of gain from a trailhead at 1,090 ft.

Above treeline the ground turns to sub-alpine tundra, steep and vertical near the peaks, with no flat ground to camp on. The top of the route reaches 2,890 ft and ends at a big alpine overlook. Dall sheep are almost a given on the slopes above, so keep an eye on the rock as you climb. A first come, first served state campground sits at the trailhead, which makes the lake a natural base for the day.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 2.5 to 5 miles, rated hard, with 1,800 to 2,000 ft of gain. Steep switchbacks lead to sub-alpine tundra, and the maintained trail ends at the second bench.

Time

About 2 hours. The drive from Eagle River is about 0.7 hours.

Crowds and best time

The peaks are reached June through September.

Parking

Parking is at the Eklutna Lake trailhead, where a first come, first served state campground also sits.

Fees and passes

$5 day use, exact change, or a $60 annual pass. Confirm current rates with Chugach State Park.

Dogs

Dogs are allowed.

Hazards

The ground is steep and vertical near the peaks, with no flat ground to camp on.

Season and access

The peaks are reached June through September. Lower maintained trails are open year-round.

Mingo says

Plan your climb for June through September, when the peaks are reachable. Lower maintained trails stay open year-round if you want a gentler day. Scan the slopes above you for Dall sheep as you climb.

Before you go

• Bring exact change for the $5 day use fee, or a $60 annual pass.
• Confirm current fees with Chugach State Park before you drive out.
• Plan on about 2 hours of hiking, plus a drive of about 0.7 hours from Eagle River.
• Do not plan to camp on the climb, since there is no flat ground; use the state campground at the trailhead.

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