A bird sitting on a nest of eggs.

Hiking Near North Lakes, Alaska

Shorter Routes icon

Shorter Routes

These hikes keep it under 5 miles and climb less than 1,500 feet, making them ideal for quicker outings or lower-key days. Perfect for a morning stretch, a casual afternoon, or getting outside without committing to a big push. Don’t let the stats fool you — many still pack in great views and rewarding moments.

Pioneer Loop

Hike Route

Pioneer Loop

Fall Colors
moderate
1.21 mi
+80 ft
Independence Mine State Historical Park

Hike Route

Independence Mine State Historical Park

Views
easy
1.08 mi
+209 ft
Thunderbird Falls

Hike Route

Thunderbird Falls

Family Friendly
moderate
1.84 mi
+507 ft
Gold Cord Lake Out-and-Back

Hike Route

Gold Cord Lake Out-and-Back

Birding
moderate
1.77 mi
+524 ft
Albert Loop

Hike Route

Albert Loop

Birding
moderate
3.09 mi
+489 ft
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Adventurous Routes

These routes go beyond 10 miles and are built for days when you want to cover more ground and push a little deeper. Expect longer distances, more effort, and bigger payoffs — whether that’s remote terrain, summit views, or a full-day challenge. Ideal for hikers looking to go farther and stay out longer.

Reed Lakes Trail

Hike Route

Reed Lakes Trail

Commonly Backpacked
strenuous
10.27 mi
+2,412 ft
South Pioneer Peak Hike

Hike Route

South Pioneer Peak Hike

Views
strenuous
12.65 mi
+6,843 ft
Eklutna High Ridge Traverse

Hike Route

Eklutna High Ridge Traverse

Lake
strenuous
24.49 mi
+10,833 ft
Baldy to Mile High

Hike Route

Baldy to Mile High

Views
strenuous
28.22 mi
+13,374 ft
Crow Pass / Eagle River Trail - Iditarod National Historic Trail

Hike Route

Crow Pass / Eagle River Trail - Iditarod National Historic Trail

Commonly Backpacked
strenuous
22.18 mi
+3,239 ft

Other Nearby Routes

Not finding what you're looking for? These additional nearby hikes offer more ways to get outside and explore the area. With a mix of lengths, difficulty levels, and terrain, you're likely to find something that fits your plans for the day. And remember, you can always use the onX Route Builder to create your own adventure from scratch.

Government Peak Climb

Hike Route

Government Peak Climb

Views
strenuous
5.47 mi
+3,847 ft
Matanuska Peak Route

Hike Route

Matanuska Peak Route

Views
extreme
9.52 mi
+5,595 ft
East Twin Peak Route

Hike Route

East Twin Peak Route

Lake
strenuous
7.48 mi
+4,436 ft
Twin Peaks Trail

Hike Route

Twin Peaks Trail

Lake
strenuous
5.79 mi
+1,897 ft
Baldy-Blacktail Hike

Hike Route

Baldy-Blacktail Hike

Birding
strenuous
7.11 mi
+3,047 ft
Mount Magnificent Route

Hike Route

Mount Magnificent Route

Views
strenuous
5.88 mi
+3,401 ft