Powerline Pass Hike Recap | TrailMates Alaska

There’s something a little magical about hitting the trail at 8:30 PM and still needing your sunglasses.

That’s exactly what happened on our Powerline Pass hike on June 28th, led by the founder of TrailMates Megan Militello. We met up at the Glen Alps trailhead under the glow of Alaska’s famous midnight sun—where the light lingers, the temps stay just right, and time feels like it pauses for you to simply be.

Some folks came solo. Others came with a friend. But within a few minutes, the trail chatter started—easy, unhurried, and full of that “let’s see what tonight holds” kind of curiosity.

🥾 Trail Recap

Powerline Pass is one of those trails that feels like an open invitation. Wide enough to walk side-by-side and gentle enough to keep a conversation going, it winds through a broad valley with peaks on either side. It’s approachable, peaceful, and just rugged enough to make you feel like you’re somewhere special.

At about 2.5 miles in, we reached a charming wooden bridge crossing a bubbling creek—a great spot to pause, snap some photos, and soak in the peaceful sounds of the forest. From there, the trail narrows and gains a bit more elevation as it heads into the pass itself, where spruce trees give way to open ridgelines. The cool breeze near the summit was a refreshing reward after the steady climb.

• Distance: ~5 miles round trip

• Elevation Gain: ~600 feet total

• Terrain: Gravel road, dirt trail, rocky sections near the pass

🤝 Hiking Feels Better Together

But as always with TrailMates, it didn’t take long for casual introductions to turn into real conversations. Within the first mile, people were swapping moose stories, trail recommendations, and favorite camp spots.

That’s the TrailMates magic. We’re not just here to check off miles—we’re here to unwind, to reconnect with nature and each other, and to make this big, wild state feel a little more like home.

You don’t need perfect boots or the fastest pace. You just need to show up.

“I didn’t think I was outdoorsy enough for something like this, turns out, I just needed the right people to hike with.”

🌲 Stories, Laughs & Bridge Views

At the 2.5-mile mark, the trail leads to a wooden bridge where a creek flows gently below. The spruce trees opened just enough to let golden light pour in, and everyone paused—not because we had to, but because we wanted to.

Phones came out for pictures. There were “ooohs” and “wait, let me get one of you here!” as friends snapped bridge selfies. It was the kind of natural pause that reminds you how good it feels to slow down together.

Halfway through, we paused for a quick round of Rose, Bud, Thorn—where everyone shared a highlight, something they’re looking forward to, and a challenge. One person talked about the joy of being outside after a rough work week. Another shared how this was their first group hike in Alaska.

🤝 Connections That Stick

One of the highlights of the night? Spotting our longtime TrailMate David—he’s been with us since the Elevated Oats days and still brings that easy smile and sage hiking advice that instantly puts newcomers at ease.

Plus, it was pretty awesome to see two hikers who met on a TrailMates trail just a few weeks ago already planning their next weekend adventure together. Proof that these trails aren’t just about getting steps in—they’re where friendships are built and last a lifetime.

💬 Trail Talk Moments

Midway through the hike, someone paused and said something that perfectly sums up what TrailMates is all about:

“It started as a hike—turned out to be so much more because of the people.”

It’s a feeling we hear again and again—and it speaks to the heart of our community. TrailMates isn’t just about counting miles or conquering elevation. It’s about the connections we make on those miles, the stories shared between steps, and the friendships born in the quiet moments of the trail.

It’s the laughter echoing through the trees, the helping hand offered without hesitation, and the sense of belonging that turns strangers into friends. TrailMates is where the journey becomes more than a hike—it becomes a shared experience that lifts you up, grounds you, and reminds you that the best adventures are the ones we take together.

🧢 Repping the Vibe

You’ll spot Megan in one of the hike photos, smiling under her TrailMates hat—our signature design that’s become a symbol of belonging in this growing community. It’s not just merch—it’s a little nod to the people who make the miles matter.

Want to rep TrailMates on your next adventure? You can grab hats, stickers, and other gear in our TrailMates merch shop. It’s a fun way to support our mission and carry the vibe with you wherever you roam.

🌱 Thinking About Joining?

If you’re wondering, “Can I keep up? Will I fit in?” the answer is a big yes. TrailMates is for anyone curious, kind, and ready to try something new. All our hikes are free to attend, and they’re open to all experience levels. Whether you're hiking solo or bringing your whole family, you’ll be welcomed with open arms.

🧭 Visit our TrailMates events page to see what’s coming up next and RSVP.

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

Powerline Pass Memory Drop 📸✨