2.8
(14)
50
riders
Lower Hemlock Burn Loop
00:57
9.41km
210m
Mountain biking
The Lower Hemlock Burn Loop offers a distinctive mountain biking experience in Chugach State Park, known for its fast, flowy, and smooth terrain. You'll encounter numerous rollers and berms as you navigate the trail, with impressive views of the Anchorage bowl and the Chugach mountains unfolding around you. It's an easy 5.8-mile (9.4 km) ride with 686 feet (209 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 56 minutes, making it a great option for a quick, fun outing.
To ride this loop, you'll likely start from the Prospect Heights Trailhead, which provides convenient parking. While the trail is multi-use, mountain bikers are encouraged to follow a one-way downhill flow from Glen Alps to Prospect for a better and safer experience. Always be mindful that you're in bear country, so keep an eye out for wildlife like bears and moose.
This trail stands out as one of the few in Chugach State Park specifically designed with mountain biking in mind, constructed between 2020 and 2021. It serves as a preferred downhill route, helping to manage bike traffic on other paths like the South Fork Rim Trail. The loop connects to the wider Hillside trail system, offering possibilities for extended rides and linking to other trails if you're looking for more adventure.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
87 m
Prospect Heights Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
518 m
South Fork Rim Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
4.75 km
Hemlock Burn Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
When biking in Chugach State Park (and actually all of Alaska) you should always know how to handle wildlife encounters and consider carrying bear spray for extra protection.
Tip by
9.41 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
9.13 km
287 m
Surfaces
9.13 km
287 m
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Elevation
Highest point (530 m)
Lowest point (340 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Saturday 15 August
20°C
11°C
24 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 7.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Lower Hemlock Burn Loop suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Lower Hemlock Burn Loop is rated as 'easy' and is specifically designed for beginner to intermediate mountain bikers. It features smooth, flowy singletrack with rollers and berms, making it an accessible and enjoyable ride without highly technical challenges.
How long does it typically take to complete this mountain bike loop?
The Lower Hemlock Burn Loop is approximately 9.4 kilometers long and generally takes about 55-60 minutes to complete on a mountain bike, depending on your pace and stops for views.
What is the terrain like on the Lower Hemlock Burn Loop?
The terrain is characterized by fast, flowy, and smooth singletrack. You'll encounter rollers and berms that add to the fun of the descent. It's designed for an engaging ride without overly technical features.
What kind of views can I expect on the trail?
You can expect amazing views of the Anchorage bowl throughout the ride. The trail is designed with good viewsheds, offering scenic vistas of the surrounding landscape.
What wildlife might I encounter along the route?
The area is known for its Alaskan wilderness, so it's common to spot wildlife such as bears and moose. Always be aware of your surroundings and practice safe wildlife viewing.
Where can I park to access the Lower Hemlock Burn Loop?
The loop typically starts from the Prospect Parking Lot, which provides direct access to the Prospect Heights Trailhead. From there, you'll bike up the South Fork Rim Trail to begin the loop.
What is the best time of year to ride this loop?
Given it's a mountain biking trail in Chugach State Park, the best time to ride is generally during the snow-free months, typically from late spring through early fall (May to October), when the trails are dry and clear.
Is the Lower Hemlock Burn Loop dog-friendly?
Yes, dogs are generally allowed on trails within Chugach State Park, including the Lower Hemlock Burn Loop. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users.
Are there any permits or fees required to access the Lower Hemlock Burn Loop?
While there are no specific permits required for the trail itself, you will need to pay a parking fee to use the parking lots within Chugach State Park, such as the Prospect Parking Lot. An annual Alaska State Parks parking pass is also available.
Does the Lower Hemlock Burn Loop connect to other trails?
Yes, the Lower Hemlock Burn Loop is part of a larger network. It connects to the South Fork Rim Trail and the White Spruce trail, allowing for varied route options. It also integrates with the broader Hillside trail system, offering possibilities for longer rides. The route itself also passes through sections of the Hemlock Burn Trail and the Mountains to Sea trail.
What makes this trail unique for mountain biking?
The Lower Hemlock Burn Loop is notable because it's one of the few trails in Chugach State Park specifically purpose-built with mountain biking in mind. It features a sustainable design with flowy elements like rollers and berms, making it a world-class, multi-use, and family-friendly experience.
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