Crow Pass Trailhead

We had a fantastic 8mile out & back hike to past Crystal Lake to Raven Glacier. It was a mostly sunny day, a little windy in spots, with moderate trail traffic. Incredible views, especially at the glacier, but all along the trail. We even got to see a black bear in the distance on a mountain side. Loved it!

Crow pass is probably one of my favorites in views when overcast and so green. We did not walk far into the path, maybe a mile or two. The berries were pretty, but with the sign we chose not to pick any. We originally came because we heard there was salmon berries. The experience and views were too great not to enjoy, but the one car road was a bit scary because we had a smaller vehicle than the huge vans we had to pass. It wasn't easy to pass without getting into the dirt or bushes just so their vehicle could pass. With so many turns we could not see when a vehicle was coming most of the time. There is a lot of parking and some picnic tables at the start of the trail with restrooms. Our only issue was that one car wide road getting to the trailhead.

Challenging hike on a good trail. Always take bear spray. Three easy creek crossings with stepping stones(didn't even get feet wet). Follow the path to the right at top of pass(left path is to lake & cabin(reservation required) to reach the 3500 foot Crow Pass. Beautiful glacier views. 7 miles round trip.

Hiking the Crow Pass Trail to Raven Glacier was a challenge but in the best way! The ascent is significant (2000 + feet) but it is gradual and the views are spectacular throughout most of the hike. The lake is a nice place to stop and relax or picnic. There is a public use cabin for rent there that looked great. The route leads over a couple small streams and the path from the lake to the glacier is a soggy, so keep that in mind when choosing footwear. It also is a bit windy so a jacket or sweatshirt would be a good idea. Not much shade on this walk, so sunscreen and hats are also recommended. I was glad to have my poles but they aren’t necessary if you are pretty sure footed. I understand this is the hardest part of the long trail that continues to Eagle River (24 miles). I am so glad to have this one under my belt, I look forward to doing the entire traverse soon.

As an introductory Alaska hike, I found the trail views stunning and not too difficult for a hiking novice. We were able to get to the glacier overlook area and back down in four hours, going at a somewhat leisurely pace. There is a cabin which can be reserved not too far from the glacier, in a lovely little spot next to a small lake, swathed in the mists. There are a few waterfall and creek crossings on the way to the glacier and even with caution wet feet are likely. Many folks brought dogs along. We did spy a black bear far across the ravine but it wasn't close enough to cause concern.