Flattop Mountain

Flattop Mountain, at 3,510', is the most-climbed mountain in Anchorage and is the goal of many visitors. Despite the fact that this is the most-used trail in the area, it should not be overlooked that there have been several accidents on the mountain that have resulted in serious injury and death. The final approach requires some scrambling in the summer and potentially treacherous mountaineering techniques in the winter of most years. Certain areas of the mountain are also prone to avalanches, which has resulted in fatalities. If you are inexperienced in mountain travel, or hazardous conditions exist, I highly recommend that you try another trail or consider the alternative, Backside Flattop Trail. The route up begins at the Glen Alps parking lot, and heads up through the hemlock up to Blueberry Loop. At this junction, take either direction around Blueberry Knoll to the posted Flattop Mountain Trail turnoff. Continue up the south slopes of Flattop, which is a nice maintained trail that includes wooden steps leading to a saddle. The final approach switchbacks through talus and up to the rocky section that includes the previously mentioned scrambling. This trail has a difficult rating due to its grade and short scrambling section.