Penguin Peak Trail

Dogs Off-leash

Features Fall Colors · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Grizzly and black bears are out here and climb well into the tundra; don't run alone.

This trail is steep and isolated; there are no switchbacks, and you can find bears that roam to the top of the ridge. Your reward is a spectacular view of the Seward Highway and the peaks across the Turnagain Arm, and if you continue on, the hidden views of Bird Valley seen from the top of Penguin Peak.

From Bird Creek Trailhead, run the Bird Creek Trail a little over a half of a mile until you see a signed trail for Penguin Ridge Trail on the right. It is easy to miss the sign, but the trail itself is fairly well worn. From here, prepare for an ascent of almost 3000 vertical feet to gain the ridge. The trail itself disappears at around 2800 feet when you are well into the tundra. Continue heading up and slightly right to gain the ridge for views of Seward Highway.

If you are looking for more astounding views of the hidden backcountry of the North Face of Penguin Ridge, Bird Creek and Bird Peak, ascend the ridge to your left instead. You can continue along this ridge to ascend Penguin Peak!

Alder, grass, blueberries, bears, hemlock, and spruce.