Taking a Hike

This is Flattop. Took 1.5hrs to get up.

Yesterday we decided to hike Flattop Mountain. Everyone told us it's a great, easy, day hike. It's the most popular hike in Anchorage, due it's close proximity to the city and fantastic views. On a typical summer day the trail is packed with tourists. We figured since cruise season is almost over, there wouldn't be too many people out and about. It wasn't packed, but we had to wait a while in the parking lot to find a spot.

We took our time.

This was about halfway up.

The trail starts at 2000' and features a 1500' elevation change to finish at a cool 3500', and a walk of 3.1 miles out and back. The hiking book Abby and Brent gave us listed the hike as moderate to difficult, harder at the end when the hike changes from following a trail to scrambling up the mountain. Turns out the book was right. A mile into the trail the going gets rough. The trail essentially disappears into the side of the mountain, leaving us to pick and climb our way up the rocks.

The final climb only took about 20 minutes and was probably the most fun segment. I don't think I'll ever outgrow playing on the rocks. The views from the top were unbelievable.

Looking down towards the Turnagain Arm

This marks the top of the mountain

It was an awesome hike. Probably not the best one to start out with, especially since we're both out of shape, but definitely worth it. Next week we'll hike again, but something much flatter. Hopefully next week we'll see some wildlife when we hike the Albert Loop Trail.

To you it was a great view...