🥾 TrailMates x Baffin x Big Ray’s: Blueberry Knoll + Powerline Pass Community Hike

Sara Burda
Sep 8
3 min read

Group of smiling hikers and a dog posing in a scenic valley with mountains in the background, under a cloudy sky. Some wear colorful gear.

🌟 Kicking Off an Epic Collab

On Sunday, September 7, 2025, TrailMates teamed up with Baffin and Big Ray’s for a special community hike at Blueberry Knoll + Powerline Pass. Our meet-up spot at the Glen Alps upper parking lot was buzzing with hikers, laughter, and the excitement of trying out something new.

Black flag with "BAFFIN" and "BORN IN THE NORTH. 1979." in white near a rural road with mountains in background, clear sky above.

The best part? A big Baffin tent greeted everyone at the trailhead. Hikers got the chance to test out Baffin’s brand-new hiking boots before hitting the trail—because let’s be honest, what better way to try gear than on real Alaskan terrain?

Three people smiling at a hiking event booth with "Welcome" sign. Mountains in the background, sunny day. Bottles and shoes on display.

“You don’t really know a boot until you’ve met a little mud, wind, and an uphill trail together.”

👋 Two Groups, One Community

We split into two groups to keep the flow smooth and welcoming. One group set off up Blueberry Knoll knowing that we would all cross paths again on Powerline Pass. The separation gave everyone space to chat, breathe, and connect—but we all knew we were part of the same big adventure.

New faces made this hike especially exciting. Many joined TrailMates for the very first time, drawn in by the collab and soaking in on some of the last warm sunny hiking days. As one new hiker shared,

“I was nervous to come alone, but within minutes I was laughing with total strangers—it felt like hiking with friends I’d known forever.”

Hikers walk along a trail in a mountainous landscape with green trees and grassy terrain. One wears a jacket with "Terrain Collection" text.

🌬️ Wind in Our Hair, Sun on Our Faces

Mother Nature showed off her personality on this one. The day was bright and sunny, but the wind kept us on our toes (and occasionally sent hats flying down the trail 😂). Instead of slowing us down, the gusts became part of the fun—people cheered when they managed to stay upright on the breeziest stretches, and there was plenty of laughter echoing across the hillside.

Between the bursts of wind, the trail opened up to sweeping views of Anchorage, the Chugach, and valleys dotted with fall colors. Blueberry Knoll lived up to its name, with patches of berries still hanging on for those who stopped to snack.

🦌 Wildlife + Rainbows = Trail Magic

Moose grazing on a lush, green hillside surrounded by dense foliage and trees. Bright daylight enhances the vibrant greenery.

Halfway through the hike, the group got one of those “only in Alaska” moments—a moose meandered into view, reminding us that these trails belong to more than just us humans. Everyone paused, kept a safe distance, and marveled at the sheer presence of it.

And just when we thought the day couldn’t get any better, a rainbow stretched across the sky as we looked back toward the city. Phones came out, people pointed and cheered—it was one of those little gifts from nature that makes the miles melt away.

Rainbow arcs over a mountain with green vegetation in the foreground under a blue sky, creating a serene and vibrant scene.

🎉 Connection at the Core

Whether you were lacing up brand-new Baffin boots or relying on your trusty trail shoes, this hike was less about gear and more about people. Conversations flowed as freely as the streams we crossed: new friendships were sparked, stories were swapped, and the sense of community was impossible to miss.

As one hiker summed it up,

“The boots fit amazing and the best part of the day was the people—this group just makes you feel at home on the trail.”

🏔️ Why This Hike Mattered

Blueberry Knoll + Powerline Pass offered the perfect mix for a community hike: approachable mileage (6.5 miles, 500 ft elevation) with views that make you stop in your tracks. It gave first-timers confidence, seasoned hikers room to roam, and everyone a chance to soak up the simple joy of being outdoors together.

The collab with Baffin and Big Ray’s made it extra special. It wasn’t just about showing up for a hike—it was about building bridges between local businesses, outdoor brands, and the TrailMates community.

A group of people smiling on a wooden bridge with a golden retriever, set against a mountainous landscape under a partly cloudy sky.

🌲 Join the Next Adventure

TrailMates hikes are about more than reaching a summit—they’re about connection, laughter, and creating memories together. Don’t miss out on our next community adventure! Check out our events page to RSVP and see what trails we’re exploring next.

And if you want to support the TrailMates mission of making the outdoors more accessible, consider making a donation—or grab some TrailMates merch to rep the community on and off the trail. Every little bit helps us keep the magic going.

Check out more photos of our epic adventure below!