Rabbit Lake Trail — Anchorage Alaska Hiking Guide 2026

Welcome to AnchorageHikes.com, your ultimate guide to exploring the breathtaking trails surrounding Alaska’s largest city. Today, we’re diving deep into one of the Chugach Front Range’s most beloved and rewarding adventures: the Rabbit Lake Trail Anchorage Alaska. This iconic hike offers stunning panoramic views, diverse wildlife, and the serene beauty of a high alpine lake, making it a must-do for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re seeking a challenging day hike or a memorable photographic journey, the path to Rabbit Lake promises an unforgettable Alaskan experience. Prepare to be inspired as we navigate every aspect of this incredible trail, from its winding path to the best times to visit and what essential gear you’ll need.

Getting There — Trailhead & Parking

The journey to Rabbit Lake begins at the popular Glen Alps Trailhead, located within Chugach State Park, just a short drive from downtown Anchorage.

Directions from Anchorage:

From Seward Highway, take the O’Malley Road exit and head east. Continue on O’Malley Road for about 4 miles until you reach a roundabout. Take the first exit onto Hillside Drive. Follow Hillside Drive for approximately 2.5 miles, then turn left onto Upper Huffman Road. Drive another 1.5 miles up Upper Huffman Road until you reach the Glen Alps parking lot at the very end of the road.

Parking:

The Glen Alps parking lot is large but can fill up quickly, especially on sunny summer weekends. There is a daily parking fee of $5.00, payable at a self-service kiosk (bring exact cash or check, or pay via the ParkMobile app). An Alaska State Parks annual parking pass is also accepted. Restrooms (outhouses) are available at the trailhead, along with picnic tables and interpretive signs. This is a very popular starting point for many Chugach Front Range trails, so be prepared for crowds, especially at the beginning of the hike.

Trail Description — Mile by Mile

The Rabbit Lake Trail Anchorage Alaska offers a varied and consistently scenic experience. Here’s a mile-by-mile breakdown of what to expect:

Mile 0 – 1.5: The Powerline Pass Gateway

Your adventure starts at the Glen Alps Trailhead. For the first mile and a half, you’ll be hiking along a wide, well-maintained gravel path that is part of the extensive Powerline Pass Trail system. This section is relatively flat with a gentle, almost imperceptible incline. It’s popular with hikers, runners, and mountain bikers. The views here are already spectacular, looking out over the Anchorage bowl, Cook Inlet, and the distant Alaska Range on clear days. You’ll pass several smaller trails branching off, including the route up to Flattop Mountain. Stay straight on the main Powerline Pass trail.

Mile 1.5 – 3.0: Ascending Above the Pass

Around the 1.5-mile mark, you’ll reach a clear junction where the Powerline Pass Trail continues straight (east), and the Rabbit Lake Trail branches off to the right (south). A wooden sign typically marks this turn. From here, the trail narrows significantly, becoming a single-track dirt path that begins a more consistent ascent. The terrain becomes rockier, and you’ll encounter more pronounced ups and downs. This section offers incredible views back towards Powerline Pass and the surrounding peaks, including Wolverine Peak to your left. You’ll traverse along the side of a ridge, often with a steep drop-off to your right.

Mile 3.0 – 4.5: Alpine Traverse to the Lake

As you continue, the trail opens up into true alpine tundra. The trees become sparse, giving way to low-lying shrubs, grasses, and wildflowers in summer. The views become even more expansive, with the vast Chugach wilderness unfolding around you. This section involves more sustained climbing, switchbacks, and rocky sections. You’ll navigate over exposed ridges, often feeling the full force of any wind. Keep an eye out for Dall sheep grazing on the slopes above. The air here feels crisp and clean, a true taste of the high country. As you near the lake, you’ll cross a final ridge, and the stunning blue waters of Rabbit Lake will come into view, nestled in a cirque of towering peaks.

Mile 4.5 – 9.0: Rabbit Lake and Return

Reaching Rabbit Lake is a truly rewarding experience. The lake itself is pristine, reflecting the surrounding mountains beautifully. There are several spots along the shore to sit, relax, and enjoy a well-deserved snack or lunch. Many hikers choose to explore around the lake, finding a quiet spot to soak in the scenery. Some adventurous souls even brave a quick dip in the icy waters. Remember to leave no trace and pack out everything you pack in. After enjoying the tranquility of the lake, you’ll retrace your steps back down the same path to the Glen Alps Trailhead. The descent offers a different perspective on the landscapes, and you might spot wildlife you missed on the way up.

Difficulty Rating — Is Rabbit Lake Trail Right for You?

The Rabbit Lake Trail Anchorage Alaska is generally rated as Moderate to Strenuous. Here’s why: