Top 5 Hikes With Kids

Top 5 Hikes With Kids

They’ve got short legs, short attention spans and a need for some nature exploration - now where to take them? Our criteria for a good kid hike is little elevation gain, easy to turn around or finish quickly and possibly stroller friendly. These are in no particular order because each hike has something unique and everyone has their own favorites. This list  will give you a starting point if you don’t know where to begin. Before going out, make sure you know how to deploy your bear spray and don’t forget that at home. 

Portage Creek: Trail of Blue Ice (7.1 miles) - A little drive south of Anchorage right before the tunnel and the town of Whittier is this scenic paved trail. This trail is fairly flat and good for a family bike ride. A great addition to a day trip before or after visiting the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Stroller Friendly.

Thunderbird Falls: (1.8 miles) - 25 minutes North of JBER is Thunderbird Falls. This little hike starts with a fairly steep hill that can have you worried if you thought you were in for an easy hike - but don't worry, that’s the steepest part of the entire path. This is a quick walk to the waterfalls with a bench at the viewing point to take a break and enjoy nature. Stroller friendly.

Gold Cold: (1.5 miles) - This trail is located right off of Independence Mine in Hatcher Pass. This trail is a little more technical and not stroller friendly. Independence Mine is a fun place to learn some history of the area and see the amazing views Hatcher Pass has to offer. This would be a good trail for hiking boots as it can be rocky and muddy in parts. This is the perfect spot for some true exploration. After a day of exploring in the mountains we like to stop at Little Miller’s Ice Cream for a post hike treat.

South Fork Falls: (1.3 miles) - Known as Barbara Falls to the locals. This is a nice family friendly trail with more waterfall rewards at the end. This trail is located in Eagle River about 20 minutes from JBER. The trailhead is tucked back at the end of cul-de-sac. There is no parking inside the circle of the cul-de-sac. Remember to be mindful of the neighbors who live in the area. Make sure to bring your bear spray for this hike. 

Reflections Lake: (1.1 miles) - This is the perfect walk for little legs. Kids love the fun viewing tower about halfway around the 1 mile path around the lake. This path is very flat and stroller friendly. When the leaves start turning color for our short fall season this is the most stunning hike. There’s also a pavilion close to the parking area for a little picnic at the end. 

Happy hiking!