Mount Gordon Lyon Trail Anchorage

Quick facts: Distance: 6 miles Round Trip | Elevation Gain: 2,600 feet | Difficulty: Strenuous | Best Season: July – Early October

Overview

Mount Gordon Lyon, standing proudly at 3,800 feet within the Chugach State Park, offers one of Anchorage’s most rewarding and challenging hiking experiences. Nestled in the Chugach hills above the Anchorage Hillside, this trail presents a thrilling alternative to its more heavily trafficked neighbors, providing a true taste of Alaskan wilderness just a short drive from the city. Unlike popular summits like Flattop, Gordon Lyon offers a sense of solitude and rugged adventure, appealing to seasoned hikers looking for a deeper connection with the Chugach Front Range. The journey to its summit is a relentless climb, winding through dense spruce forests before bursting into expansive alpine tundra, characteristic of Alaska’s high country.

What makes Mount Gordon Lyon truly special are the unparalleled panoramic vistas it delivers. From its rocky pinnacle, hikers are treated to a breathtaking 360-degree spectacle. To the west, the entire Anchorage Bowl unfolds beneath you, stretching towards the shimmering waters of Cook Inlet, with the majestic peaks of the Alaska Range, including the distant Denali, painting the horizon on clear days. To the north, the Knik Arm snakes its way through the landscape, while the Turnagain Arm dominates the southern view, framed by endless Chugach peaks. This trail is a photographer’s dream and a soul-stirring experience for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the raw beauty of Southcentral Alaska. It’s a testament to the wild heart of Anchorage, offering a challenging ascent rewarded by views that etch themselves into memory.

Distance & Elevation

The standard route for the Mount Gordon Lyon Trail covers approximately 6 miles round trip from the typical starting points within the Hillside Trail Network. This challenging distance includes a significant cumulative elevation gain of around 2,600 feet from the Powerline Pass trail. The highest point reached on the hike is the summit of Mount Gordon Lyon itself, standing at an impressive 3,800 feet above sea level. This substantial gain over a relatively short distance is what categorizes this trail as strenuous and demands good physical conditioning.

Difficulty Rating

Mount Gordon Lyon is unequivocally rated as Strenuous. This rating is due to several key factors:

Steep Ascent: The trail involves a relentless climb with very few flat sections. Hikers will gain over 2,600 feet in just 3 miles to the summit, meaning an average grade of over 16%, with much steeper sections.
Rugged Terrain: The path can be rocky, uneven, and sometimes poorly defined, especially above the tree line. There may be loose scree near the summit, requiring careful footing.
Exposure: Once above the tree line, the trail is exposed to the elements, including strong winds, direct sun, and sudden weather changes.
Navigation: While generally discernible, the trail can become faint in places, particularly in the alpine tundra or if snow patches obscure the path, requiring good navigational skills.

This hike is best suited for experienced hikers with strong endurance, proper gear, and a good understanding of mountain safety.

Best Season to Hike

The prime season for hiking Mount Gordon Lyon is from July through early October.

July – August: This is generally the safest and most popular window. By mid-July, most of the significant snow patches have melted from the main trail, especially on the south-facing slopes. Expect lush alpine flora, longer daylight hours, but also higher chances of encountering mosquitoes in lower, forested sections (bring bug spray!).
September – Early October: A spectacular time to hike as the tundra transforms into vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. Temperatures are cooler, and bugs are typically gone. However, hikers must be prepared for rapidly changing weather, including early season snowfalls, frost, and shorter daylight hours.
Shoulder Seasons (Late May – June / Late October): Access during these months is highly dependent on snowpack. Early season hikes will likely encounter significant snowfields, requiring microspikes or crampons, and potentially an ice axe, as well as avalanche awareness for steeper slopes. Late season can bring early winter conditions, making the trail icy and dangerous without proper winter gear and experience. Always check current trail conditions and weather forecasts from sources like the Chugach State Park office or local hiking forums before attempting an off-season ascent.

Current Access Info: The trail is generally accessible year-round for experienced winter mountaineers, but for the average hiker, summer and early fall are the only safe and enjoyable times. Always check the Chugach State Park website or local weather for the latest conditions, especially regarding snow and trail closures.

Trailhead & Parking

Mount Gordon Lyon is typically accessed via the extensive Anchorage Hillside Trail Network. A common and convenient starting point is the Glen Alps Trailhead, which provides access to Powerline Pass and subsequent routes.

Address/GPS Coordinates:
Glen Alps Trailhead (Chugach State Park)
Glen Alps Road, Anchorage, AK 99516
GPS: 61.1009° N, 149.7042° W

Parking Fee: Yes, a Chugach State Park day-use parking fee is required. As of current, it’s typically $5 per vehicle per day, or you can use an annual Alaska State Parks pass. Ensure you have cash or a valid pass displayed.

Directions from Downtown Anchorage:

From downtown Anchorage, head south on A Street (which becomes New Seward Highway/AK-1 S).
Take the O’Malley Road exit and turn left (east) onto O’Malley Road.
Continue on O’Malley Road for approximately 3.5 miles.
Turn right onto Hillside Drive.
Follow Hillside Drive for about 1.5 miles, then turn left onto Upper Huffman Road.
Continue on Upper Huffman Road for roughly 1.5 miles until it dead-ends at the Glen Alps Trailhead parking lot.

From the Glen Alps Trailhead, follow the well-maintained Powerline Pass trail east for approximately 1.5-2 miles. The turn-off for Gordon Lyon is not always explicitly marked but typically involves branching off the Powerline Pass trail towards the north/northeast after passing the main O’Malley Peak access, heading into the valley before ascending Gordon Lyon’s south ridge. Consulting a detailed topo map or GPS is crucial for navigating the various braided trails in this area.

What to Bring

Hiking in Alaska requires careful preparation due to rapidly changing weather and remote conditions. For Mount Gordon Lyon, ensure you have these Alaska-specific items:

Bear Spray: Crucial for personal safety. Carry it in an easily accessible holster and know how to use it.
Layered Clothing: Essential for unpredictable weather. Think moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid-layer (fleece or puff jacket), and a waterproof/windproof outer shell. Even on sunny days, the summit can be cold and windy.
Waterproof Hiking Boots: Sturdy, ankle-supporting, waterproof boots are a must for potentially muddy sections, creek crossings, and lingering snow.
Navigation Tools: A physical map (Chugach State Park map) and compass, along with a GPS device or a reliable smartphone app with downloaded offline maps (e.g., Gaia GPS, AllTrails Pro). Cell service is unreliable.
Plenty of Water: At least 2-3 liters per person for this strenuous hike. Filtering options are advisable if you need more.
High-Energy Snacks: Fuel for a long, demanding climb.
Headlamp or Flashlight: Even for day hikes, unexpected delays or weather changes can extend your time on the trail.
First-Aid Kit: Comprehensive kit for blisters, cuts, sprains, and other common trail ailments.
Sun Protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat. UV reflection off snow and water can be intense.
Emergency Shelter/Bivy: A lightweight emergency blanket or bivy sack can be a lifesaver in case of unexpected exposure.
Bug Spray: Especially in early summer in lower, forested sections.
Trekking Poles: Highly recommended for stability on steep ascents/descents and rocky terrain, and for creek crossings.

Wildlife to Watch For

The Chugach State Park is teeming with Alaskan wildlife, and Mount Gordon Lyon’s varied terrain provides habitat for several iconic species.

Bears: Both black bears and grizzly (brown) bears inhabit the Chugach Front Range. Black bears are more common in the lower, forested areas near the trailhead and along Powerline Pass. Grizzly bears can be found anywhere, including above tree line. Be bear aware: make noise, carry bear spray, and know how to react in an encounter.
Moose: Often spotted in the brushy valleys and forested sections, particularly along Powerline Pass. While generally docile, moose can be aggressive, especially cows with calves. Give them a wide berth.
Dall Sheep: These majestic white sheep are often seen on the higher, rocky slopes and ridges of Chugach peaks. Keep an eye out for them once you break above the tree line on Gordon Lyon. They blend remarkably well with the rocks.
Eagles: Both bald and golden eagles soar overhead, especially around the high peaks. Look for them circling thermals or perched on distant snags.
Ptarmigan: These camouflaged birds (will change feather color with seasons) are common in the alpine tundra. Listen for their distinctive calls.
Marmots and Pikas: Small, vocal rodents that inhabit the rocky areas above tree line.

Always maintain a respectful distance from all wildlife and never feed animals.

Trail Highlights

The Mount Gordon Lyon Trail offers a continuous stream of visual rewards, culminating in its magnificent summit views.

Mile 0-1.5 (Glen Alps to Powerline Pass Junction): The initial stretch along Powerline Pass is a relatively gentle, wide trail. While not the most dramatic, it offers initial views of the Anchorage Hillside and the vastness of the Chugach foothills. This section is often busy with other hikers and bikers.
Mile 1.5-2.5 (Ascent through Forest): After branching off Powerline Pass, the trail begins its steep ascent, initially winding through dense spruce and birch forests. While views are limited here, the shade provides a welcome respite, and the quiet forest offers a chance to spot smaller wildlife. Keep an eye out for wildflowers in summer.
Mile 2.5-3.0 (Breaking Above Tree Line & Alpine Tundra): This is where the magic truly begins. As you gain elevation, the trees thin out, giving way to open alpine tundra. The trail becomes more rugged, but the views start to open up dramatically. You’ll be treated to sweeping vistas of neighboring peaks and the vast Chugach wilderness. This section is often carpeted in vibrant fall colors by September.
Mile 3.0 (The Summit – 3,800 ft): The pinnacle of the hike! From the summit of Mount Gordon Lyon, you are rewarded with unparalleled 360-degree panoramas.
- West: The entire Anchorage Bowl, stretching to Cook Inlet, with the majestic Alaska Range and even Denali visible on clear days.
- North: The winding Knik Arm and the vastness of the Chugach Mountains extending north.
- South: The stunning Turnagain Arm, framed by dramatic peaks, with glimpses of the Kenai Peninsula beyond.
- East: A sea of Chugach peaks, stretching endlessly into the wilderness. This is a prime photo opportunity!

Tips & Warnings

Hiking Mount Gordon Lyon, like any Alaskan trail, demands respect for the environment and preparation for the unexpected.

Weather Changes Rapidly: “Four seasons in a day” is not an exaggeration in the Chugach. A sunny morning can quickly turn into a windy, rainy, or even snowy afternoon, especially at higher elevations. Always pack for all conditions.
Creek Crossings: Depending on the route chosen from the Hillside network and recent rainfall or snowmelt, you might encounter minor creek crossings. These are usually manageable but can be higher and swifter in early summer. Waterproof boots are essential.
Avalanche Risk: While primarily a summer trail, attempting Gordon Lyon in shoulder seasons (late fall, winter, early spring) carries significant avalanche risk on its steeper slopes. Do not attempt without proper avalanche training, gear (beacon, shovel, probe), and checking the Chugach National Forest Avalanche Information Center (CNFAIC).
Bear Encounters: Be vigilant. Make noise while hiking, especially in dense brush. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Hike in groups if possible. Store food properly.
Navigation is Key: The trail can be faint or braided in places, particularly above the tree line. Always carry a map and compass, and a GPS device with downloaded maps. Do not rely solely on cell service, as it can be spotty or nonexistent.
Steep and Strenuous: This is a challenging hike. Be honest about your fitness level. Take breaks, stay hydrated, and turn back if conditions or your energy levels warrant it. There is no shame in a safe retreat.
Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you pack in. Stay on designated trails to prevent erosion. Do not disturb wildlife or natural features.
Stay Hydrated and Fueled: The continuous climb requires consistent energy intake. Bring more water and snacks than you think you’ll need.

Nearby Trails

Looking for more adventures in the Anchorage Hillside? Check out these other fantastic trails on AnchorageHikes.com:

Flattop Mountain Trail: Anchorage’s most popular summit, offering a shorter, though still challenging, climb with iconic views.
Wolverine Peak Trail: Another strenuous climb in the same region, offering similarly rewarding panoramic views and a great alternative to Gordon Lyon.
Powerline Pass Trail: A longer, less steep, and highly accessible trail perfect for running, biking, or a more relaxed hike with stunning valley views.
Little O’Malley Peak Trail: A popular Hillside hike offering a great workout and fantastic views of the Anchorage Bowl and Turnagain Arm, often accessed from the same trail network.