Trail description:

The trail to Gull Rock is a unique coastal hike located on the opposite side of Turnagain Bay from Anchorage. It leads its way through forested terrain throughout the entire duration of the hike. Occasional breaks in the trees reveal views of the bay and the mountains lining the other side (part of the the Southern Chugach). A few streams are crossed with the help of man-made bridges along the way. Shortly after making its way around a steep mountainside cove, the trail ends at a small campsite overlooking a sharp cliff. Take a left here and carefully scramble down the semi-rocky terrain off to the side to reach a grassy hillside with a view of Gull Rock (see below for more details).

Difficulty:

An easy-going hike; there is virtually no elevation gain at all. In addition, the path is well maintained and easy to follow. Just keep the entire length of the trail in mind before giving it a try.

Directions:

From Anchorage, head south and follow the Seward Highway around Turnagain Arm. After heading inland, continue following the highway until a well marked sign indicates a turnoff for Hope. Take the route to Hope, and then, after reaching the town, continue on the same road until a campground is reached. The trail starts on the far side, where a sign marks the starting point of the trail.

Additional Information:

Gull Rock, a small rocky island nestled below the final vantage point, is actually not the destination of the trail itself. Accessing it is difficult, and can only be attempted at low tide when a connecting series of rocks briefly surfaces. It also requires an approach from the right (not the left as described above) - along with bushwhacking, scrambling, bolder-hopping, and wading through waist deep water - and is thus not recommended for an average person to even attempt. On a separate note, practice bear safety while hiking here. Bears frequently inhabit low-lying coastal areas, and are much harder to spot in forested terrain compared to the higher elevations that many other trails in this region exhibit.