🥾 TrailMates Hike Recap: Hope Point Adventure—Rain or Shine!

🗺️ Trail Details

• Trail: Hope Point Trail on July 25th, 2025

• Location: Hope, Alaska

• Distance: ~8.5 miles round trip

• Elevation Gain: ~3,450 ft

• Route Type: Out and back

• Trail Style: Forested switchbacks to exposed tundra ridge

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

• Trail Leader: Tina

🌧️ Weather or Not, We Showed Up

The day started like one of those classic Alaska curveballs: cold, damp, and socked in with rain. But TrailMates hikers are no strangers to less-than-perfect weather—and we don’t cancel for clouds. With rain jackets zipped, packs loaded, and encouragement flowing, the crew headed up Hope Point led by Tina.

Despite the weather, the trail buzzed with energy. Conversations sparked between strangers. Laughter echoed through the trees. Hikers shared extra gloves, swapped hiking stories, and offered a steady hand over slick roots. That’s the thing about TrailMates—it’s never just a hike. It’s a reminder that community can carry you up mountains (literally).

🐾 Signs of Wild Company

Hope Point is known for its wildlife, and this time we didn’t see the bear—but we knew it had been nearby. Fresh scat and tracks kept us alert and respectful, but not fearful. Our group moved with intention and noise, keeping the area safe for both us and our wild neighbors. It was a powerful reminder that these lands are shared, and that hiking here is always an act of humility and awe.

⛰️ From Forest to Ridge: We Climb Together

Hope Point offers one of the most scenic climbs in Southcentral Alaska, even when the views are hiding. The switchbacks start in thick spruce and gradually open up into alpine tundra, where wildflowers line the trail and clouds roll in like a moody movie scene.

Despite the rain, the vibes were high. Snacks were shared. Encouraging words passed down the line. People hiked at their own pace, and no one was left behind.

“Such a good trail. It had everything—tundra, switchbacks, summit views (even through the mist). I wouldn’t have done this solo in this weather, but the group made it amazing.”— TrailMate hiker Warren

🥾 Rainy Hike, Good Vibes

We reached the summit damp, a little chilled, and totally glad we stuck it out. The big views came and went with the mist, but the group energy stayed high. Everyone took a moment to breathe it in, swap a few laughs, and soak up that “we made it” feeling.

It wasn’t picture-perfect, but it was solid. Just a crew of people choosing to show up, rain and all—and that’s what TrailMates is all about.

💚 Why TrailMates Feels Different

We’re not just another hiking group. TrailMates is built on connection over competition, where pace doesn’t matter, and showing up as you are is enough. Our hike leaders (like Tina!) are trained to hold space, set the tone, and help everyone feel welcome.

We check in with each other. We pause for views and conversations. We know that movement is medicine—and that hiking together isn’t just good for the body, it’s good for the soul.

Whether it’s your first hike or your fiftieth, you’ll find support, encouragement, and real-deal community here.

🛍️ Did You Know? We Have Merch!

Rock your TrailMates pride on the next hike or around town with our cozy hoodies, hats, and stickers! Every purchase helps keep our hikes free and supports our mission.

👕 Shop now: trailmates.online/shop

🗓️ RSVP for Your Next Adventure

Our hikes are free, fun, and intentionally designed for all experience levels. If you're building strength, finding friends, or just needing fresh air—we’ve got a spot for you.

👉 See upcoming hikes & RSVP here: trailmates.online/events

🌱 Help Us Keep the Movement Going

Want to give back to the group that gives you summit smiles and trail joy? You can help keep our hikes free and inclusive for all. Your gift trains leaders, supports beginners, and fuels this movement.

🎁 Donate: trailmates.online/donate

We didn’t get sunshine. We didn’t get views. But we got what we came for: connection, movement, and proof that showing up matters more than perfect conditions. And that? That’s the TrailMates way. ⬇️ Keep scrolling to see all the photos from the adventure!