Wasilla sits in the heart of the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, surrounded by mountain ranges, wetlands, and lakes. Hiking opportunities here range from short, family-friendly boardwalks to challenging alpine ascents in nearby Hatcher Pass. Trails highlight Alaska’s diverse landscapes—wetlands rich with birdlife, scenic lakes, steep ridges, and valleys carved by glaciers.

Easy & Family-Friendly Trails

• Wasilla Creek (Chuqilntnu) Boardwalk Trail
  A 0.4-mile boardwalk loop over wetlands with interpretive signs and wildlife viewing platforms.
  Palmer Hay Flats State Game Refuge, Wasilla, AK
• Lake Lucille Loop
  A gentle 1.5-mile loop around Lake Lucille in Wasilla City Park. Close to downtown, great for families.
  1401 S Lucille St, Wasilla, AK 99654
• Scout Ridge Loop Trail
  A short 1-mile paved trail in the Palmer Hay Flats offering sweeping views of wetlands and the Chugach Mountains.
  Scout Ridge Loop, Wasilla, AK

Moderate Trails with Great Views

• Bodenburg Butte (The Butte)
  A short but steep 1-mile climb with stairs built into sections. Panoramic 360-degree views of farmland and mountains at the summit.
  Bodenburg Loop, Butte, AK 99645
• Reflections Lake Trail
  An easy 1-mile loop around a scenic lake, just off the Glenn Highway south of Palmer. Features boardwalks and a viewing tower.
  Reflections Lake, Palmer, AK 99645
• Crevasse Moraine Trails
  A system of interconnected loops totaling 7–10 miles. Options range from easy walks to more challenging routes in the Matanuska Greenbelt.
  Crevasse Moraine Trailhead, Palmer, AK 99645

Day Hikes & Backpacking Routes

• Gold Mint Trail
  A 16-mile out-and-back hike in Hatcher Pass following the Little Susitna River to the historic Mint Hut. Great valley scenery, glaciers, and a solid backpacking option.
  Gold Mint Trailhead, Palmer, AK 99645
• Reed Lakes Trail_