Crow Pass & Crystal Lake Hike

The hike to Crow Pass and back via Crystal Lake is a breathtaking adventure that showcases the stunning beauty of the Chugach Mountains. This 10-mile round trip hike takes you through diverse landscapes, including dense forests, alpine meadows, and rugged mountain terrain.

While the official Crow Pass Trail is 26-miles long point to point trail, we recommend embarking on a day hike through its most scenic 10-mile part to the Crow Pass and back.

Starting at the Crow Pass Trailhead near Girdwood, the trail leads you along the scenic Crow Creek Valley, offering picturesque views of waterfalls, wildflowers, and wildlife along the way. As you ascend towards Crow Pass, you'll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys, including Barnes Mountain and the iconic Raven Glacier.

Make sure to take a short detour to Crystal Lake, a pristine alpine lake nestled amidst towering mountains. The tranquil beauty of the lake and the surrounding scenery provide a perfect spot to rest, have a picnic, and soak in the serenity of the wilderness.

Hiking to Crow Pass and Crystal Lake is an unforgettable experience that immerses you in the natural wonders of the Chugach Mountains. It's an opportunity to challenge yourself, witness breathtaking scenery, and create lasting memories of Alaska's pristine wilderness.