24-Mile Crow Pass Adventure Through Alaska’s Backcountry

TrailMates Hike Stats | Crow Pass Trail | Girdwood to Eagle River | 24 miles | ~2,100 ft elevation gain

What happens when 27 TrailMates hit one of Alaska’s most legendary trails for a weekend of hiking, camping, and soaking in glacier views? You get a 24-mile adventure full of river crossings, wild trail moments, and the kind of magic you talk about all summer.

Led by our volunteer leader Michael Douglas, Leo Overduyn, and Adolf Garcia our TrailMates community hiked from Girdwood to Eagle River—but this trip was about way more than miles. It was about trail bonds formed over shared snacks, sore legs, and late-night campfire laughs. Some hikers showed up nervous, not knowing what to expect. They left proud, empowered, and part of something bigger.

Because out here, it’s not just about the hike—it’s about the people who show up and make it unforgettable. 💛

🌲 Why the Outdoors Matters—Now More Than Ever

We say it a lot, but it’s always true: hiking is about more than miles.

Getting outside feeds our mental health, gives us space to breathe, and brings us back to ourselves—especially when we share the trail with others. Whether you're laughing over trail mix or pushing through mile 18 with sore feet and big determination, these moments of connection ground us in the best ways.

TrailMates is more than an Alaska hiking community. We’re a group of people who believe that the outdoors heals, challenges, and connects us. And hikes like Crow Pass prove it.

“Crow Pass was amazing. Cool people made it even better and memorable.” — Ksenia

🏞️ The Crow Pass Trail: Big Views and Even Bigger Moments

The Crow Pass Trail is a legendary point-to-point route stretching from Girdwood to Eagle River, part of the historic Iditarod National Historic Trail. With sweeping alpine views, Raven Glacier, cascading waterfalls, and wildlife sightings (yes—we’re talking moose and mountain goats!), it’s one of the most rewarding and rugged Anchorage-area hikes out there.

But it’s no walk in the park.

There were overgrown sections, glacier runoff crossings that left boots soaked, and the iconic Eagle River ford that tested everyone's balance and grit. Some brought ice cleats for slick spots, others leaned hard on their trekking poles—and everyone brought heart.

“We hiked from Girdwood to Crow Pass then to Eagle River! Lots of great people! 24 miles of adventure! Glad I made it back! Was so sore! Recommend ice cleats in spots and the trail was overgrown in many areas!” — Leo Overduyn

🌊 The Icy Challenge: Crossing the Wild Waters Together

One of the most unforgettable moments on the Crow Pass hike was the massive river crossing—an adrenaline-pumping, icy splash that tested everyone’s nerves and balance. The cold water rushed past, and the rocky riverbed threatened slippery missteps. But it wasn’t just a physical challenge; it was a moment that brought the group closer than ever.

Hikers linked arms, offered steadying hands, and cheered each other on through every slippery step. Laughter echoed over the roar of the current as everyone conquered that wild, rushing river together—turning what could have been a daunting obstacle into a shared victory. It’s exactly this kind of raw, wild adventure and unwavering support that makes TrailMates more than just a hike—it’s a true community.

⛺ Campfires & Community Connection

This overnight Alaska hiking event was one for the books. After day one, the group set up camp under wide open skies, lit a fire, and shared stories as the sun dipped below the peaks. Some hiked in solo and left with new best friends. Others pushed beyond their longest mileage ever.

There was laughter. Hot drinks. Sore legs and full hearts.

“Crow Pass 😁😁 started with 20, ended up with a total of 27. An amazing hike ❤️” — Michael Douglas (TrailMates hike leader)

These are the moments TrailMates is built on—real connection, real challenge, real community. Along the way, new faces joined the journey—drawn in by the energy, the challenge, and the spirit of saying yes to adventure. It didn’t matter if you were fast, experienced, or fully geared out. Everyone was welcomed.

“Crow Pass Trail! What an awesome hike! A great adventure with such great views! Thanks to Michael for setting up this hike!” — Warren

Moments like these are what TrailMates is all about—coming together in the wild, cheering each other on, and making memories that stick long after the boots come off. It’s not just a hike. It’s something bigger.

🌟 Why TrailMates Exists

We created TrailMates to bring people together around shared experiences in nature. It doesn’t matter if you’re an experienced backpacker or just starting out—you belong here.

From local Anchorage hikes like Wolverine Peak to bucket-list adventures like Crow Pass, we’re here to build strength, community, and confidence—one mile at a time.

Crow Pass reminded us why TrailMates is more than just hiking—it's about connection, encouragement, and sharing the adventure with good people. Tackling a challenging trail is way more fun (and doable!) when you’re part of a supportive group that cheers you on every step of the way.

🌲 Join Us for More Alaska Group Hikes

If you’re looking for a way to get outside, meet kind people, and connect with the land (and yourself), TrailMates is here for you. Whether you’re new to hiking or a seasoned trekker, our events offer a welcoming, pressure-free space to explore Alaska’s wild places together.

Our hikes bring together folks who crave fresh air, community, and those unforgettable stories that only come from real shared adventures on the trail.

Best of all, we host free hikes that are open to all experience levels—whether you’re coming solo, with friends, or your whole family, you’ll be greeted with open arms and a warm TrailMates welcome.

🌱 Considering Your First Hike?

Wondering if you’ll be able to keep pace or if you’ll find your people? No worries—TrailMates is for anyone curious, friendly, and ready to get outside and try something new. Our hikes are free, open to all skill levels, and designed to welcome solo adventurers, families, and everyone in between. Come as you are, and we promise you’ll find a place here.

🧭 Check out our upcoming hikes and RSVP on the TrailMates events page—can’t wait to see you on the trail!

Grab your new favorite trail hat!

🧢 TrailMates Merch Has Arrived!

From cozy hoodies perfect for foggy trail mornings to stickers that say “yep, I hiked that,” our merch is here to fuel your adventures and future TrailMates hikes. Every snapback, tee, and patch helps support our growing community—and lets you rep the trail life in style.

💚 Help Keep the Hikes Free

Our hikes will always be free to attend—because we believe nature and connection should be accessible to everyone. If you’d like to help support what we’re building, consider making a donation to TrailMates. Your gift helps us coordinate hike leaders, support new gear for first-time hikers, and expand our impact across Alaska.

🌱 Donate here: TrailMates Donation Page

📷 Photo Highlights from Crow Pass

From glacier-fed river crossings to cozy campfire moments and trail friends for life—this hike was one for the books. ➡️ Keep scrolling to see all the photos from the weekend adventure!