🗺️ Trail Route Map
Topo map data © OpenTopoMap / OpenStreetMap contributors · View All Alaska Trails →
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure to Peak 2, a prominent gem in Anchorage’s Front Range, offering breathtaking panoramic views that stretch from the bustling city across Cook Inlet to the towering Alaska Range. This iconic trail, nestled within the vast Chugach State Park, is a favorite among locals and visitors seeking a challenging yet incredibly rewarding alpine experience. Peak 2, while not the highest peak in the immediate area, provides a strenuous workout with significant elevation gain, culminating in vistas that make every step worthwhile. It’s a true taste of Alaska’s rugged beauty, accessible right from the edge of its largest city.
Generally considered a difficult hike due to its steep ascent and often rugged terrain, the journey to Peak 2 is best undertaken by those with a good level of physical fitness and prior hiking experience. The round-trip distance from the Glen Alps trailhead is approximately 7-8 miles, with an elevation gain of around 2,300-2,500 feet, climbing to a summit elevation of roughly 4,500 feet. While challenging, the trail is well-trodden for most of its length during the summer months (June through September), which is the ideal time to visit when wildflowers carpet the tundra and snow has largely receded. Prepare for a full day of hiking, typically taking 4-7 hours depending on your pace and how long you linger at the summit to soak in the views.
Trail Description
Your journey to Peak 2 begins at the popular Glen Alps Trailhead, a gateway to numerous Chugach Mountains adventures. The initial section of the hike follows the wide, well-maintained Powerline Pass trail, a relatively gentle gravel path that gradually gains elevation. You’ll enjoy expansive views of the Anchorage bowl and the Knik Arm even from this lower elevation. After approximately 1.5 to 2 miles, you’ll reach a prominent fork in the trail. The Powerline Pass trail continues straight, while a less defined, steeper social trail veers right, heading directly uphill towards the saddle between Peak 2 and Peak 3.
🗺️ Nearby Trails You Might Like
→ Peak 3 Trail
→ O’Malley Peak Trail
→ Little O’Malley Peak Trail
→ Mount Magnificent Trail
📥 Download Free Alaska Trail Guides
Get 8 printable PDF guides delivered to your inbox — free.