Exploring Winner Creek with TrailMates

TrailMates community gathered for an autumn adventure along Winner Creek in Girdwood, one of Southcentral Alaska’s most scenic and approachable hikes. Under the guidance of longtime TrailMates leader Adolph, all set out for a day full of fresh air, forest sights, and good company.

The morning began with patches of sun filtering through the spruce and hemlock, casting golden highlights on the trail. As the group moved deeper into the valley, the clouds rolled in and the signature Girdwood mist settled over the trees, giving the forest a quiet, almost magical vibe. The crisp fall air smelled of earth, moss, and the faint sweetness of leaves beginning to decompose, a reminder that autumn in Alaska has its own subtle beauty.

Winner Creek Trail stretches roughly 3 miles one-way depending on where you turn around. The path winds through old-growth forest, alongside rushing waters, and over a few small bridges and creek crossings that keep things interesting without being intimidating.

Along the way, hikers could admire moss-covered trunks, ferns brushing the edges of the trail, and scattered golden leaves that crunched underfoot with every step. Even the simple sounds of boots on the gravel, paired with the creek’s flow and occasional bird calls, created a grounding, immersive experience.

The group’s energy stayed relaxed and easygoing. Conversations bubbled naturally as small clusters formed—some people walked quietly to soak in the forest, others laughed and shared trail stories. Adolph’s calm leadership set the tone from the start, reminding everyone that TrailMates isn’t about pace or performance—it’s about showing up, exploring, and connecting.

“It’s scenic without being too intense and it has just enough adventure built in. Everyone ends up smiling by the end.”

Winner Creek strikes that rare balance of accessibility and adventure. New hikers felt welcome, while more experienced hikers enjoyed small moments of challenge—like stepping carefully over tree roots or balancing on the creek’s log bridge.

The Creek Crossing Moment

One of the day’s highlights came at the log bridge over Winner Creek. Recent rains had made the crossing slick enough that everyone needed to slow down and focus. Hikers took turns stepping carefully, using trekking poles or a friend’s hand for balance. Laughter bubbled up each time someone wobbled, and cheers went out whenever someone made it safely across.

“That crossing made the hike,” one participant said afterward. “It wasn’t hard, but it got everyone working together. You don’t always get that sense of teamwork on a casual trail.”

These small shared challenges—helping someone step over a log, pausing for a photo, or pointing out a favorite view—create the kind of memories that make TrailMates hikes stand out.

By the turnaround point, the light had softened under the cloud cover, the air was cooler, and the forest had taken on a quiet stillness. Hikers paused for water, snacks, and a few photos, soaking in the calm and the simple satisfaction of being outside together.

Ice Cream + Connection

Back at the trailhead, a smaller group decided to keep the day going with a sweet treat at The Ice Cream Shop in Girdwood. Stories were swapped, favorite parts of the trail were recapped, and new friendships started to form. People who had arrived alone left with plans to meet again on the next TrailMates hike.

“You don’t always realize how much you need this until you’re in it”

These post-hike moments are just as important as the trail itself. They give hikers a chance to reflect, connect, and laugh in a relaxed setting—one of the things that makes TrailMates truly unique.

Why This Matters

Winner Creek reminds us that getting outside is about more than just exercise—it’s about perspective, connection, and a mental reset. The rhythm of walking, the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest, and the chance to be present alongside others all work together to improve mood, reduce stress, and recharge energy.

TrailMates isn’t about speed or competition—it’s about creating space for people to step away from screens and schedules, to breathe, and to enjoy the company of others.

“It’s easy to forget how grounding this can be,” one participant said. “You show up thinking it’s just a hike, but you leave with new energy.”

Every hike, whether a casual walk or a more adventurous route, reinforces that nature is one of the most inclusive spaces we have—everyone is welcome, and everyone belongs.

Join Us for Future Alaska Group Hikes

If you missed Winner Creek today, don’t worry—TrailMates has hikes year-round. From winter treks through snowy forests to spring coastal walks, every event is designed to get people moving, exploring, and connecting.

👉 Visit our events page to see upcoming hikes and RSVP.

Whether you come solo or bring a friend, you’ll be welcomed by a community ready to share the trail, stories, and laughs.

Support TrailMates

TrailMates is volunteer-led and community-driven. Donations help fund events, make outdoor spaces more accessible, and keep Alaska’s hiking community thriving.

💚 Donate here to help us continue creating inclusive, fun, and meaningful outdoor experiences.

The Winner Creek hike captured everything we love about TrailMates: laughter, conversation, adventure, and the simple joy of being outdoors. From sunny beginnings to cloudy reflections, from creek crossings to ice cream stops, the day reminded everyone how restorative a few hours outside can be and how much richer it is when shared with the right people.

Here’s to more trails, more connection, and more moments that make you show up, not just on the trail, but for each other.