Easy hikes and walks in Matanuska-Susitna Borough
4.6
(103)
1,453
hikers
85
hikes
Easy hiking trails in Matanuska-Susitna Borough traverse a diverse landscape shaped by glaciers, boreal forests, and mountain ranges. The region is characterized by glacier-carved valleys, expansive forests, and alpine passes, framed by the Chugach and Talkeetna Mountains. Hikers can explore areas with prominent features like the Matanuska Glacier and numerous glacial lakes. This south-central Alaskan area offers a variety of terrain for outdoor activities.
Best easy hiking trails in Matanuska-Susitna Borough
- The most popular easy hiking route is Edge Nature…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
24
hikers
1.76km
00:31
50m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
1.85km
00:43
200m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
12
hikers
2.62km
01:04
250m
150m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
7
hikers
6.74km
01:47
60m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
2.34km
00:40
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
3.09km
00:47
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
4.92km
01:15
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
4.78km
01:19
80m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
1.81km
00:47
250m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
4.82km
01:31
190m
190m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Matanuska-Susitna Borough
Easy hikes in the Talkeetna Mountains
Easy hikes around Fishhook
Easy hikes in Independence Mine State Historical Park
Easy hikes around Willow
Easy hikes around Knik River
Easy hikes around Tanaina
Easy hikes around Butte
Easy hikes around Buffalo Soapstone
Easy hikes around Gateway
Easy hikes around Talkeetna
Other adventures in Matanuska-Susitna Borough
Tips from the Community
Ascending Hatch Peak from the east is a pretty easy hike up a narrow ridge trail. If you choose to make a full loop and continue back down into the bowl along the western ridgeline, be prepared for hiking on big pieces of loose rock and large, jagged scree.
0
0
A short and relatively challenging hike with a breathtaking view of the Matanuska Glacier! A must on Route 1! The hike starts below the AT&T mast. There is a gravel parking lot there. The barrier says no entry. If you find a phone number, just give AT&T a quick call and let them know that you want to do the hike up Lions Head - that's what I read in various hiking recommendations. (We didn't see a sign with a phone number and just went.) The hike is very steep and at times quite muddy. Hiking poles can be very helpful. The climb is rewarded with a spectacular view of the huge Matanuska Glacier. Due to the steepness, I would recommend planning 2-3 hours depending on your fitness level.
0
0
From Bodenburg Butte you have a great 360° view of the surrounding mountains and the Knik Glacier, which feeds the Knik River of the same name. The butte itself was also formed by glacial activity. The panoramic view is definitely worth the strenuous climb (including a staircase with 527 steps).
0
0
Matanuska Lakes State Recreation Area is just one part of the huge swath of green space known as the Matanuska Greenbelt. There are several trailheads accessible to the south of Long Lake, a loop trail around Long Lake itself, and tie-ins with other parts of the Matanuska Greenbelt trail system, including the Crevasse Moraine trail system to the north.
1
0
If you like running stairs, this is the destination for you. The trail up this 874 feet (266 m) butte has hundreds of stairs on it. It's also very popular with hikers and has very little room to pass, so if you're planning to run you might want to aim for a less-crowded time of day. (During the day on weekdays is usually a fairly safe bet. This trail is almost never entirely empty, but it's less likely to be crowded during the day.)
1
0
A small sign marks the actual pass here, and there is a small parking area with just enough room for a few cars. Just on the other side of the gravel road you'll find a trailhead for the family-friendly hike up to April Bowl, which in a normal year contains three small lakes. If you're feeling rugged, you can also hike up a rocky ridgeline to the obvious summit of Hatch Peak, which looms over the bowl.
1
0
At just 874 feet (266 m) in elevation, you might not expect much from Bodenburg Butte. But it sits like an island in the middle of flat farmland, so climbing up to the rocky top of the butte — via a trail that is roughly 25% stairs — provides really beautiful views of the lush farmland around you and the nearby mountains.
1
0
The Matanuska Lakes State Recreation Area is located behind the city. There are many beautiful lakes, accessible both in summer and winter with the right equipment.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are there in Matanuska-Susitna Borough?
The Matanuska-Susitna Borough offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 50 routes available for exploration. In total, there are 90 hiking routes across all difficulty levels in the region.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough?
Easy hikes in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough traverse a diverse landscape shaped by glaciers, boreal forests, and mountain ranges. You'll find glacier-carved valleys, expansive forests, and striking alpine passes, framed by the Chugach and Talkeetna Mountains. Many trails offer views of prominent features like the Matanuska Glacier and numerous glacial lakes.
Are there any easy loop trails in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough?
Yes, the region features several easy loop trails perfect for a relaxed outing. Consider the Long Lake Loop, the Tigger Lake Loop, or the Z Lake Loop for scenic circular walks. Another option is the Lane Basin Loop.
Can I bring my dog on these easy trails?
Many easy trails in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific trail regulations before you go. Generally, dogs are welcome on leash, especially on less strenuous paths. Please remember to pack out all waste.
Are there family-friendly easy hikes suitable for children?
Absolutely. The easy hiking trails in Matanuska-Susitna Borough are generally suitable for families with children. Routes like the Edge Nature Trail, which offers panoramic views of the Matanuska Glacier, are short and engaging for younger hikers. Lakeside loops are also often a good choice for families.
What natural attractions can I see along easy hiking routes?
You can encounter several natural attractions on easy hikes. The Edge Nature Trail provides stunning views of the Matanuska Glacier. The West Butte Trail leads to the summit of Bodenburg Butte, offering 360-degree views. You might also find trails near beautiful lakes like Red Shirt Lake or Byers Lake.
When is the best time of year to go easy hiking in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough?
The best time for easy hiking in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough is typically from late spring through early fall (May to September). During these months, trails are generally clear of snow, and the weather is milder, making for more comfortable conditions. Some trails may be accessible in winter for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
Are there any easy trails that offer views of Denali?
While Denali itself is outside the immediate Mat-Su area, some trails within the borough, particularly those in Denali State Park or near Talkeetna, can offer excellent distant views of North America's tallest peak on clear days. Check local conditions for the best viewing opportunities.
Where can I find parking for easy hiking trails?
Most established trailheads for easy hikes in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough offer designated parking areas. Popular spots like the Matanuska Glacier State Recreation Site (for the Edge Nature Trail) and the Bodenburg Butte trailhead (for the West Butte Trail) typically have parking available. Some areas, especially within state parks, may require a day-use fee.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Matanuska-Susitna Borough?
The easy trails in Matanuska-Susitna Borough are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 80 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning scenic views, the accessibility of the trails, and the unique experience of hiking in a glacier-carved landscape.
Are there any easy trails near the Matanuska Glacier?
Yes, the Edge Nature Trail is an excellent easy option located right at the Matanuska Glacier State Recreation Site. This 1.1-mile trail provides panoramic views of the glacier, allowing you to experience its grandeur up close without a strenuous climb.
Are there any easy trails in the Hatcher Pass area?
Hatcher Pass offers breathtaking alpine scenery, and you can find easy trails there. The Hatch Peak and April Bowl Trail is an easy 1.6-mile path that provides access to alpine views and glacial lakes within this stunning mountain pass area.
What are some short, easy hikes for a quick outing?
For a quick and easy outing, consider trails that can be completed in under an hour. The Edge Nature Trail is about 30 minutes, and the West Butte Trail typically takes around 40 minutes. These are perfect for enjoying the scenery without committing to a longer trek.
Most popular routes in Matanuska-Susitna Borough
Most popular attractions in Matanuska-Susitna Borough
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Check out more Hikes throughout Matanuska-Susitna Borough below and find the perfect route in your destination.
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
