Trail description:

The ultimate Chugach hike! Crow Pass starts on the outskirts of Girdwood, near Turnagain Bay, and eventually leads all the way to the nature center on the outskirts of Eagle River. The first 3 miles of the hike is all uphill (although it's not very steep for the most part). After about a mile and a half, ruins of an old mine can be seen, followed shortly afterwards by a spectacular rocky chasm with several waterfalls. Be carefull here; it's steep and there's plenty of loose rock. A little ways past the chasm, the trail splits left and right; ethier way is fine to take because both trails merge again. A small lake known as Crystal Lake can be seen on the left once the high point is reached. From here the trail heads almost entirely downhill. Raven Glacier soon appears; the view is rather up-close and looks amazing. Raven valley will descend for a few miles until eventually the environment gradually changes back into a forest setting. A bridge is reached at one point which crosses another relatively dramatic, surging waterfall. Raven valley eventually merges with the larger Eagle River valley. This is a good place to set up camp, ideally before one of the most memorable parts of the hike - fording! (see the picture for more details) After crossing the river, the trail follows the valley west, which makes up almost half of the total hike. The trail splits and re-joins a few times; the best rule is to stay to the right, which is higher up, as the trails on the left can be bogged down and inaccessible due to water. There are some places which may require additional water crossing, on either route. Near the end of the trail, several wooden posts will let you know that you're almost finished. Eventually, the trail ends at the Eagle River Nature Center.

Difficulty:

Somewhat tough simply due to length. Fording also bumps the difficulty up - this is not a trail for pre-adolescent folk in any case. The elevation gain itself is moderate for the first few miles, then slightly downhill and easy after that.

Directions:

From Anchorage, head south on the New Seward Highway, past city limits, for about 45 minutes, until the city of Girdwood is reached. You should see a large gas station; turn left, and follow this road for about 2 miles. As soon as the road begins to curve right, look for Crow Creek Road on your left and turn. This should be a gravel road; after a while it will fork. Take the right fork (uphill) until a parking area is reached. The trail begins on the far side of the parking lot.

Additional Information:

This trail can be done in a day (if you're crazy), but I'd highly recommend making it at least an overnighter. The last section after the ford can seem to drag on, as the scenery is great but doesn't change a whole lot. Also, make sure to arrange on some way to leave the nature center beforehand. You can leave a vehicle there, but I'd recommend arranging a telephone call with someone for a pickup, as you won't have to pay the $5.00 parking fee.