Bird Ridge Grudge Match Hike Recap: TrailMates Crush the Climb to the Summit

Megan Militello
Jun 17
3 min read

Updated: Jul 1

Group of hikers celebrating on a rocky summit with snow-capped mountains in the background. Bright, clear day with joyful expressions.

A Redemption Hike to Remember

On Saturday, June 14th, TrailMates returned to Bird Ridge for what leader Pete Devaris fittingly dubbed the “Bird Ridge Grudge Match.” After two previous hikes were canceled due to extreme winds, this third attempt held something different in the air—determination, camaraderie, and just the right conditions to make a summit dream a reality.

With a solid crew of 18 hikers, we tackled one of the most challenging trails in the Anchorage area: 4.4 miles roundtrip and a whopping 3,261 feet of elevation gain. Every foot climbed was matched with jaw-dropping views, gasps for breath, words of encouragement, and those heart-thumping reminders of why we choose to do hard things together.

It wasn’t just about reaching the top—it was about reclaiming it.

A Big Group, A Small-Group Feel

TrailMates hikes often draw a beautiful mix of first-timers and seasoned trekkers, and this hike was no exception. Many hikers mentioned they were new to the group, or labeled themselves as “slow.” But in Pete’s words:

“All I heard was hiker. All that matters is hiker. The right pace is your pace. Exclusively yours.”

From the get-go, the group spread naturally along the steep, winding trail—each person finding their rhythm while still very much a part of the whole. At one point, our community of climbers stretched nearly a mile across Bird Ridge. And yet, 18 started—and 18 made it to the summit. No one left behind. No one quit.

Two people stand triumphantly on a rocky peak, arms raised, with snow-capped mountains and a bright blue sky in the background.

The hike wasn’t easy. For some, it was the hardest hike they’d ever done. But challenge is what made the celebration so much sweeter.

“This team really dug deep to pull this one together,” Pete said. “I’m just stunned that everybody made it.”

Summit Vibes and Celebration

Though the group was stretched across the ridge by the final push, the energy at the summit was palpable—if not a little dispersed. With hikers arriving in staggered waves, it was tough to snap a traditional summit photo. Still, the view and the feeling? Unforgettable.

Pete brought champagne to celebrate the long-awaited summit, but with a few late arrivals and limited supplies, not everyone got a sip. (Next time, Pete promises to stash bottles in everyone’s packs—just in case.)

Two hikers in hats sit on a rocky peak with snowy mountains in the background, overlooking a valley and water on a clear, sunny day. — Daughter + Mom Team!

Community member, Sandy, shared afterward:

“Thanks Pete for hosting this amazing hike. This hike almost kicked my hiney but my goal was to make it to the top—and with the help of my awesome daughter and boyfriend, the goal was achieved.”

That’s what TrailMates is about: support, perseverance, and celebrating every single person at their own pace.

And while this hike came with the physical burn of 3,000+ feet of climbing, it also offered that mental clarity and heart-lifting power that only the mountains can give.

Why We Do Hard Things—Together

The Bird Ridge trail is not for the faint of heart. It’s a constant, steep climb with little relief—but it also offers a powerful metaphor for life: progress isn’t always fast, but when it’s supported by community, it becomes possible.

Hikers climb a rocky, snow-covered ridge under a clear blue sky. The snow contrasts with the brown rocks, creating a rugged landscape.

This group proved that. From the opening steps at 11:00 AM to the last summit photo hours later, TrailMates hikers leaned into the discomfort, lifted each other up, and conquered something immense.

And when we say “grudge match,” we don’t mean a fight with the mountain—we mean a reunion with it. A return to finish what we started. A reclaiming of space, breath, and belief in ourselves.

This was more than a hike. It was a redemption story with 18 authors and one epic ending.

Join Us for More Alaska Group Hikes

Whether you’re looking to summit a peak or just stretch your legs with a new friend, TrailMates is here for it. We host free, community-focused hikes throughout Southcentral Alaska—always with supportive leaders, welcoming vibes, and no pressure to be anything other than yourself.

“Our hikes are always free. Always open. Always judgment-free.”

You don’t need to be fast. You don’t need fancy gear. You don’t even need to know where the trailhead is—we’ll guide the way.

Just bring yourself. And maybe a little grit.

Visit our TrailMates events page to RSVP for our next hike.

Support the Movement

If you love what TrailMates is doing—building a supportive, inclusive community in Alaska’s wild spaces—consider donating to help us keep these adventures accessible and thriving. Your support helps us train hike leaders, offer more events, and keep our hikes 100% free.

👉 Donate to TrailMates

The Grudge Was Settled—But the Journey Continues

A hiker triumphantly raises a fist atop a rocky peak overlooking a forested valley, with snow-capped mountains and a river in the background.

This hike was the finale to a three-part saga of wind, resilience, and community spirit. And while the Bird Ridge Grudge Match is behind us, the lessons will climb with us into every future trail: