TrailMates Take on The Cirque at Alyeska |Girdwood
- Sara Burda
- Aug 7
- 3 min read
When TrailMates rolls up to a trailhead, you can bet we’re chasing more than just the summit. We’re in it for the connection, the challenge, and the stories that come out of doing hard things together. And our Cirque hike at Alyeska? Let’s just say—it delivered.
From Cloudy to Wow—What. A. Day.
This one’s not for the faint of heart. Steep. Rocky. A real glute burner. The Cirque makes you work for it, and this crew showed up ready to grind. Led by the ever-encouraging Adolf Garcia, we took on a trail that had us gaining elevation fast and feeling every step in our calves (and lungs).
We started the day with that classic Alaskan uncertainty—clouds looming, maybe rain? But just as we hit the switchbacks, the weather pulled a full 180. The sky opened up, sunshine broke through, and we found ourselves in the middle of one of those perfect hiking days. Blue skies. Crisp air. Total magic.
“Definitely challenging but enjoyable! The steep climbs pushed us, but the views were absolutely worth every step. Would do it again in a heartbeat.”
This Hike Had Everything:
Rocky climbs that made us sweat—then proud. The boot-testing terrain—packed granite, loose scree, exposed ridgelines—had leg and glute muscles working at full capacity.
Views that slapped fatigue right out of your brain. Once the clouds parted, the panorama across Turnagain Arm and the Chugach spread out like a reward only a few miles away.
Wind-swept summit vibes that felt earned. The strong breeze at the headwall ridge wasn’t a deterrent—it elevated the energy and sharpened senses for everyone.
We moved in mini groups, cheered each other on, and made space for everyone to find their rhythm. That’s the TrailMates vibe—community over competition every single time.
“This Crew Showed Up and Showed OUT” – Adolf Garcia, Hike Leader
At the summit, the energy was dialed in—focused, proud, and a little breathless from both the climb and the views. With cliffs, ropes, scrambles, boulder fields, and ridge walks, this trail offered everything an adrenaline-loving hiker could want.
We didn’t just hike—we navigated. Climbed. Scrambled. Sometimes hands and knees. Sometimes slow and steady. Every step was earned.
Even after the steep, technical descent, the trailhead buzzed with that post-hike high. This wasn’t just a hike—it was a full-body, full-heart kind of adventure. The kind you remember and want to do again!
You In for the Next One?
TrailMates hikes are for anyone chasing the good kind of hard but also we have hikes for ALL levels. We’re not just out here for mileage or steep summits—we’re building a community that lasts far beyond the trailheads.
Come sweat with us. Come laugh with us. Come get outside with people who make it fun. Check out our next adventure →HERE
🛍️ Guess what? TrailMates merch is here to amp up your adventure game!
From cozy hoodies and cool hats to weather-ready rain gear and stickers, we’ve got everything you need to show off your TrailMates pride—on the trail or around town.
Plus, every purchase helps us provide free hikes, workshops, and more amazing outdoor experiences! 💚
🗓️ RSVP for Your Next Adventure
Our hikes are 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 inclusive for all. Your gift trains leaders, supports beginners, and fuels this movement.
🎁 Donate: trailmates.online/donate
Comments