Crow Pass Hiking Guide
Crow Pass is the southern gateway to one of Alaska's great trails, the historic route that crosses the Chugach from Girdwood to Eagle River. You don't have to do the whole traverse to get the best of it: the climb from the end of Crow Creek Road to the pass itself passes old mining ruins, waterfalls and alpine meadows before topping out beside Raven Glacier and Crystal Lake. It is a big day hike with a real mountain payoff.
The Hike to the Pass
The Forest Service lists the Crow Pass Cabin, near the pass, at 3 miles and about 2,080 feet of gain from the Crow Creek Road trailhead, making a round trip of about 6 miles. The trail climbs steadily through brush and meadows, past mine ruins and over talus to the pass. This guide covers the day hike, not the full 20-plus-mile traverse to Eagle River.
At the Top
At the pass, Raven Glacier spills down beside the trail and Crystal Lake sits in the rocky basin. The Forest Service rents the Crow Pass Cabin from June to October, and it makes a good destination or shelter from weather. Beyond the pass, the trail enters Chugach State Park and continues north toward Eagle River.
Avalanche Season
The Forest Service warns that hazardous avalanche conditions may exist on this route as early as October and well into June. Outside summer, check the Chugach National Forest Avalanche Information Center before going and carry appropriate gear. In early summer, snow can still cover the upper trail.
Wildlife and Weather
Bears and moose live throughout the area; carry bear spray and make noise in the brush. Weather at the pass can be much colder and windier than in Girdwood, and cloud can roll in fast. Carry rain gear, warm layers and a map.
Getting There
The trailhead is at the end of Crow Creek Road in Girdwood, off the Seward Highway at about mile 90, roughly 45 minutes south of Anchorage. Local sources list the trailhead parking as free. The trail starts in the Chugach National Forest and crosses into Chugach State Park at the pass.
Hiking tips for Crow Pass
- Plan the day hike to the pass — the full traverse to Eagle River is 20-plus miles.
- Check avalanche conditions outside summer; danger can last from October into June.
- Carry bear spray and make noise in the brushy lower sections.
- Pack warm layers and rain gear for the pass, which is colder than Girdwood.
- Book the Crow Pass Cabin in advance if you want to stay overnight.
Nearby trails to explore
- Byron Glacier
- Bird Ridge
- Flattop Mountain
Hike this trail with TrailMates
Crow Pass is one of the great day hikes near Anchorage. Use TrailMates to find hikers for a Girdwood trip up to the glacier. Download the TrailMates app to connect.