By now, it’s absolutely no secret that Fall season on The Kenai, Alaska’s Playground is (hands down) breathtakingly beautiful. But when you add in the natural beauty that Alaska offers with Alaska’s premier year-round destination, Alyeska Resort… the possibilities for fun and excitement are endless.

Image Courtesy of Alyeska Resort Facebook Page
So if you are someone who’s ever had a tough time figuring out what exactly to do when the weather is “in between seasons,” we are here for you. What does that mean exactly? “In between seasons” on Alaska’s Playground means that it is too chilly to venture outside without a few extra layers on, generally the fishing is slowing down, and it feels like it is cold enough to snow, but there is no snow on the ground as of yet so winter sports (skiing, sledding, snowboarding, etc.) are out of the question.

Image Courtesy of Alaska from Scratch
This “in between season” is often times referred to as Fall in Alaska. The ongoing joke is that Alaska only has two seasons; Summer and Winter. But in actuality, we do have a beautiful Fall season in Alaska. It is usually just short and sweet, with very chilly “feels like snow weather” temps that fill the days and nights. Golden light and crisp air is ever-apparent this year in the town of Girdwood, AK as you head to Alyeska Resort. Notice some of the snow-capped mountains.

Image Courtesy of Alyeska Resort Facebook Page
One activity that is perfect for Fall season in Alaska is Hiking & Trekking. Why? Because although the weather is chilly, once you get your body in motion and begin to work up a little sweat, the low temp is actually something that quickly becomes very enjoyable and incredibly welcoming. Some even opt for shorts and t-shirts this time of year when hiking at Alyeska Resort simply because they know that they are bound to get in a great workout.

Image Courtesy of Alyeska Resort Blog
Fall Hiking & Trekking from Alyeska Resort is a great time for individuals and families to enjoy. Convinced? If not, continue on to read more about some incredible trails for beginners and experienced hikers alike. With all the incredible options and fascinating views, we are certain that you will be putting a trek from Alyeska Resort on your bucket list ASAP.
Winner Creek Trail: The most accessible hiking trail is Winner Creek, which begins near the base of the aerial tram. This trail offers a leisurely way through a lush rainforest environment. The first half-mile of the trail is on boardwalk surface; after that point, the trail becomes an easy dirt path with some uneven surfaces in places. Near the two-and-a-half-mile mark on this hike, there is a beautiful river gorge with a bridge and hand tram that allows you to pull yourself across the creek.

Image Courtesy of Emily Style
Upper Winner Creek Trail: Less developed than Winner Creek Trail. Start on Winner Creek Trail and follow signs to Upper Winner Creek. This trail contours the valley along the South side of the creek for approximately 8 miles of outstanding views and level tread.

Image by Blain Anderson
Winner Creek Extension Trail: Access the trail from the hotel pond courtyard. The path will end at Verbier Way near Challenge Alaska.

Image by Blain Anderson
The North Face Trail: The 2.2 mile steep, advanced trail starts right from the hotel. Featuring a mix of road and single-track with switchbacks, the North Face trail ascends the 2,000 vertical foot slope of this classic ski terrain. Hikers, who make it to the top, can take a complimentary descending ride on the aerial tram too.

Image from Alaska Hike Search
Upper Tram Terminal Trails: Advanced trails

Image from Alaska Daily News
South Bowl Trails: Intermediate to advanced trails

Image Courtesy of EpicEric
Multi-Use Nordic Loop: Multi-use trail can be accessed at end of Arlberg Avenue by The Hotel Alyeska.
Girdwood to Indian Bike Path: Easy walking on a paved bike path provides a mellow out-and-back trail
Here is map provided by www.Alaska.org with some more detail of where the Girdwood to Indian Bike Path goes.

Image Courtesy of Alaska.org
If you are looking to spend a day outside, enjoying all that Alaska’s Playground has to offer… we highly recommend a hike from Alyeska Resort! Keep in mind that these are just hikes from the resort. There are a TON of more options if you’d like to take a hike somewhere in Girdwood Valley area or the Portage Valley area. Click on the link to explore all that there is to offer. And of course, feel free to contact us directly by submitting a comment below if you have any questions or would like further suggestions. Get out and PLAY, and reward yourself with soaking up a view that most can only dream of seeing in their lifetime. Hurry, before the snow fly’s! #hikeAK

Image Courtesy of Ed Clapper