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Connecting Alaskans Through the Outdoors 

Join our community to explore the wild beauty of Alaska, build confidence outdoors, and make lasting connections.

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Our Core Initiatives

TrailMates (formerly Elevated Community) is growing to provide a diverse range of experiences that go beyond the trails.

Free Community Adventures

Explore Together, Build Confidence
 

Our guided adventures bring people together to explore Alaska’s stunning trails, build confidence outdoors, and create genuine connections. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or new to the outdoors, these experiences offer a supportive environment to challenge yourself and discover the beauty of the Alaskan wilderness.
 

Each adventure is thoughtfully planned to ensure a safe, fun, and meaningful journey. Let’s hike, connect, and grow—one trail at a time.

Workshops & Skill Building

Learn, Grow, and Feel Prepared
 

Knowledge is key to thriving in Alaska’s wild outdoors. Our workshops teach essential skills like winter layering, wildlife safety, navigation, and survival basics, helping you feel confident on the trails.
 

Led by experienced community members and local experts, these hands-on sessions are fun, accessible, and designed to prepare you for any adventure.

Special Events & Social Gatherings

Celebrate Connection
 

TrailMates brings people together beyond the trails with special events like seasonal celebrations, gear swaps, and educational talks. These gatherings strengthen bonds and foster a thriving outdoor community.
 

From swapping trail stories over cocoa to sharing gear tips, these events celebrate the friendships and connections that make our community so special.

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Adventure Together, Grow Together

Building confidence, connection, and community in Alaska’s great outdoors.

Welcome to TrailMates (formerly Elevated Community), where the outdoors brings us together. Founded by Megan Militello in 2021, this community was created to empower people to explore Alaska’s wilderness with confidence and connection.

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At its heart, TrailMates is about inclusion. We believe everyone should feel welcome in the outdoors, regardless of experience, and strive to make our events accessible to as many people as possible.

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Curious about how it all began?

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Upcoming Events

Mark your calendar

  • Tue, Jul 08
    Palmer Hay Flats
    Jul 08, 2025, 8:00 PM – 9:30 PM
    Palmer Hay Flats, Unnamed Road, Wasilla, AK 99654, USA
    Come enjoy a peaceful evening on the trail with TrailMates on Tuesday, July 8th at 8:00 PM! We’re heading out for a relaxed 2-mile loop at Scout Ridge Trail in Wasilla—perfect for beginners, families, and anyone looking to unwind outdoors after a long day.
  • Fri, Jul 11
    Crow Pass Trailhead
    Jul 11, 2025, 8:00 AM – Jul 12, 2025, 12:00 PM
    Crow Pass Trailhead, 6400 Crow Creek Rd, Girdwood, AK 99587, USA
    Join us as we take on the Crow Pass Trail, a legendary 22.3-mile point-to-point route that winds from Girdwood to Eagle River through some of the most rugged and breathtaking terrain in Southcentral Alaska.
  • Thu, Jul 17
    Anchorage
    Jul 17, 2025, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
    Anchorage, W River Dr, Eagle River, AK 99577, USA
    Back by popular demand! Join Kevin for another relaxed evening hike along the stunning South Fork Eagle River Trail. This trail offers wide open views, minimal elevation, and a smooth, well-worn path—perfect for new hikers, families, and anyone looking to enjoy a mellow midweek adventure.
  • Fri, Jul 25
    Hope Point Trailhead
    Jul 25, 2025, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Hope Point Trailhead, Hope, AK 99605, USA
    Ready to take on one of Southcentral Alaska’s most rewarding ridge hikes? Join TrailMates for a full-day adventure up Hope Point, a challenging yet stunning trail that winds through lush forest and alpine terrain.
  • Sat, Jul 26
    Gold Cord Lake Trailhead
    Jul 26, 2025, 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM
    Gold Cord Lake Trailhead, 23264 Gold Cord Rd, Palmer, AK 99645, USA
    Join TrailMates for a stunning afternoon hike to Gold Cord Lake, just up the trail from the historic Independence Mine in Hatcher Pass! This 1.8-mile out-and-back trail is a family-friendly favorite, featuring an easy start, gentle switchbacks through a scenic boulder field, and a rewarding alpine l
  • Fri, Aug 08
    Sutton-Alpine
    Aug 08, 2025, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
    Sutton-Alpine, 27650 Glenn Hwy, Sutton-Alpine, AK 99674, USA
    Join us on Friday, August 8th, for a hike to celebrate connection, strength, and new beginnings during the Lion’s Gate Portal! Led by Megan Militello, we'll tackle the 2.1-mile out-and-back Lion’s Head Trail near Chickaloon.
  • Sun, Sep 21
    Coyote Lake Recreation Area
    Sep 21, 2025, 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM
    Coyote Lake Recreation Area, Jonesville Rd, Sutton-Alpine, AK 99674, USA
    This is a challenging route—expect steep climbs, rocky sections, and rugged Alaskan beauty every step of the way! The 2,339 ft elevation gain is no joke, but the payoff? Totally worth it. September’s crisp air and fall colors make this the perfect time to explore.

Stay Connected, Stay Inspired

Sign up for updates on hikes, adventures, and workshops! Let us know your interests and opt in for text alerts to stay in the loop. 🥾✨

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