00:14
854m
10m
Hiking
The Thompson Pass Pack Trail offers an easy hike through Alaska's alpine environment. You will cover a short distance of 0.5 miles (0.9 km), gaining just 22 feet (7 metres) in elevation, which typically takes about 14 minutes to complete. As you walk, you can experience the transition from mossy…
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
637 m
176 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
610 m
237 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Sunday 24 May
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11 %
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This route was planned by komoot.
The Thompson Pass Pack Trail runs from Mile 19.6 to Mile 25.7 of the Richardson Highway. Accessible trailheads are available along this stretch, making parking straightforward at various points.
Yes, portions of the trail are described as accessible for hikers of various skill levels and an easy walk, making it suitable for leisurely strolls and families with kids. However, some routes in the broader Thompson Pass area can be more challenging.
The trail is generally considered dog-friendly. While specific leash regulations aren't detailed, it's always best practice to keep your dog on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers.
The trail offers stunning colors in the landscape, including reds, oranges, yellows, and lush greens depending on the season. Summer and early fall are ideal for hiking, offering breathtaking mountain landscapes and opportunities to see alpine wildflowers. Keep in mind that Thompson Pass is known for extreme snowfall in winter.
Based on available information, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for individuals to hike the Thompson Pass Pack Trail.
The trail traverses diverse ecosystems, from mossy forests to alpine tundra. You can expect breathtaking mountain landscapes, glacier-clad spires, and wide-open, unimpeded views. Some sections may involve pond-dotted tundra benches.
This trail follows a portion of the historic pack trail built by the Army Corps of Engineers between 1899 and 1901. It was famously used by Klondike Gold Rush miners as part of the Valdez-Eagle Trail, connecting Valdez to Interior Alaska.
Hikers may encounter alpine wildflowers, hear marmots, and potentially spot bears. The diverse ecosystems, from forests to tundra, support a variety of flora and fauna.
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the 95 (Alaska) trail.
The trail offers front-row views of the Chugach Mountains and glaciers like Worthington Glacier. The elevation of Thompson Pass itself provides access to impressive alpine environments with stunning panoramic views. You might also see picturesque features like Blueberry Lake.
Thompson Pass is renowned as the snowiest place in Alaska, with an average of 500 inches (13 meters) of snow annually. While this makes it a winter sports destination, hikers should be prepared for potential rapid weather changes, especially in the alpine environment, even outside of winter.