Government Peak Climb

The Government Peak Trail is a scenic trail that runs through the trees and up to the alpine tundra near the Hatcher Pass Recreational Area. The Government Peak Climb is an uphill only race that is typically held on the first Saturday in June. The race trail gains about 3500 ft. over 3 miles to a final elevation of 4,781 ft. with the best times coming in at about 42 minutes.

The Government Peak Climb race is the 3rd race in the annual Alaska Mountain Runners Grand Prix series. Entry fees range from $30-50, depending on how early you sign up.

This trail has an intermediate / black diamond rating for its steep grade.

The Government Peak Trail starts at the Government Peak Recreation Area and climbs up to the southernmost ridge in the Talkeetnas. The Recreation Area was established in 2012 and provides access to a network of cross-country ski trails in addition to the peak trails. There are multiple ways up to Government Peak, but this route is the most commonly used route and holds the annual race.

The beginning of the trail can be somewhat confusing but paying careful attention to the signage will help you navigate through the cross-country ski trails to the singletrack trail that takes you through the grassy fields and up the south slopes of Government Peak. Portions of the trail run through the trees can be quite steep, but there are two picnic tables along the way to provide rest stops. About halfway up, at around 2500 ft., there is a signed offshoot that takes you east off the trail and to another picnic table with views of a small waterfall.

Above treeline, the trail opens up and becomes slightly less steep. A large brown structure (too big for a weather station?) signifies that you are nearing the summit. The summit brings your first views into the Hatcher Pass area and the Talkeetna Mountain Range.