Getting to Crow Pass Trailhead
Hiking Crow Pass Trail to Crystal Lake is our Day 6 Alaska Trip. The trailhead sits just over an hour’s drive from Hope. From here, it’s about another hour to Anchorage, and nearly another one more hour to Palmer. We planned our stay in Hope specifically to catch this trail on our way to Palmer. .
Crow Pass Trail to Crystal Lake: Details and Options
The Loop Above Treeline
Once you climb above the treeline, Crow Pass Trail splits into a loop. You have two options:
- Right trail: A gentler ascent that traverses the mountainside
- Left trail: Steeper but great for descent (though you can take it up if you prefer)
The area’s mining history has left the mountains painted in rich colors, creating a stunning backdrop for your hike.
Distance Crow Pass Trail to Crystal Lake
- Total distance Crow Pass Trail to Crystal Lake: 10km round-trip
- Trailhead: Girdwood
- Destination: Crystal Lake
- Type: Out-and-back with loop option
- Trail surface: Well-maintained hiking path
What to Expect at Crystal Lake
Crystal Lake offers pristine glacier-fed waters. My son tried dipping his feet in – just like at Lost Lake – but the water was incredibly cold! The lake area can get quite chilly. We ended up wearing all our backup clothes from our packs. We even saw a group of hikers fully geared up with hats and gloves.
Tips Hiking Crow Pass Trail to Crystal Lake
- Pack extra warm layers – temperatures can drop suddenly near the lake
- Bring gloves and a hat, even in summer
- Take pictures at the parking lot – even this spot offers amazing views
- Consider visiting Alyeska Ski Resort after your hike – it’s very close to the trailhead
- 10 Backcountry Essentials for Hiking
Post-Hike Activities
Alyeska Ski Resort
We stopped by Alyeska Ski Resort after our hike. It’s a member of IKON ski pass. The resort offers beautiful views even in summer.
Dining in Anchorage
After the hike, we headed to Anchorage for lunch. Vietnamese pho is was our choice. I tried their vegetarian lemongrass tofu – decent, though the pho was the star.
From Crow Pass to Palmer
After finishing the Crow Pass Trail to Crystal Lake hike, we drove back toward Anchorage and made a quick stop for groceries – stocking up for the next leg of our trip. With the sun still high, we continued on to Palmer, where we’d spend the night and start planning our next adventures: a bit of mountain biking and a visit to the stunning Matanuska Glacier.
Where to Stay Near Crow Pass
We started our hike at the Girdwood trailhead, which is just minutes from Alyeska Resort (under IKON pass), Alaska’s top ski destination and a great base for summer hiking too. If you’re planning to hike Crow Pass to Crystal Lake, or explore nearby trails, staying in Girdwood is the most convenient option. It’s a charming little mountain town with great food, local coffee, and plenty of cozy lodging options.
You can browse places to stay on Booking.com, whether you’re looking for a lodge at the base of Alyeska, a cabin in the woods, or a budget-friendly B&B.
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