Flattop Mountain
Anchorage, AK
A popular climb above Anchorage, steep in places, with a final scramble to a broad summit and views over the city, Cook Inlet and the Alaska Range on clear days. The trailhead lot fills quickly, so come early.
Flattop Mountain in Chugach State Park, east of Anchorage, is 3,510 feet (1,070 m) high and is considered the most frequently climbed mountain in Alaska. The trailhead is the Glen Alps parking area. According to the park authority, the route to the summit is about 1.7 miles (2.7 km) one way with roughly 1,300 feet (400 m) of elevation gain; it is rated moderate to difficult, with some scrambling near the top.
On a clear day the view stretches over Anchorage and Cook Inlet to distant mountain ranges. Allow several hours for the round trip and start early, because the parking lot can fill quickly. The mountain is popular year-round, and in fall with berry pickers. According to the park authority, a shuttle runs from downtown from mid-May to mid-November.
- Nearest town
- Anchorage, AK
- Category
- Scenic viewpoints
- GPS
- 61.1020, -149.6855
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
Cold, short days in October–April. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Nearby
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FAQs
Where is Flattop Mountain?
Flattop Mountain is in Anchorage, AK, at GPS 61.1020, -149.6855. It is about 21 mi from Girdwood.
What is there to see near Flattop Mountain?
Places worth a stop nearby: Alaska Native Heritage Center (9 mi), Anchorage Museum (10 mi), Thunderbird Falls (26 mi) and Eklutna Lake (28 mi).
When is the best time to visit Flattop Mountain?
Cold, short days in October–April. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)