Sutton-Alpine is a region in Alaska's Matanuska-Susitna Borough, defined by its rugged wilderness and diverse natural features. Situated between the imposing Chugach and Talkeetna Mountains, the area's landscape includes the Matanuska River, which forms its southern boundary, and offers varied terrain for outdoor activities. This setting provides a backdrop for several sports like hiking and jogging.
The Sutton-Alpine area offers a range of outdoor activities for enthusiasts. With 2 routes available, more than 50 visitorsβ¦
12
Routes
5
(1)
Average rating
71
People visited

2
hikers
13.3km
04:16
630m
490m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

8.70km
02:12
10m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

26.3km
06:50
190m
140m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(1)
32
hikers
12.0km
04:36
860m
860m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4
runners
12.0km
02:04
860m
860m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

2
runners
7.03km
01:40
860m
860m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.00km
00:31
20m
20m
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

9.44km
01:52
910m
910m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Sutton-Alpine offers a range of outdoor activities including hiking and jogging. Beyond these, the region provides opportunities for fishing, fossil hunting, rafting, horseback riding, mountain biking, canoeing, and kayaking. Popular spots like Coyote Lake Recreation Area and Seventeen Mile Lake are excellent for water-based activities.
The Eska Falls Trail is a well-built route that winds through forests and alpine tundra, leading to Eska Falls and offering views of the Chugach Mountains. The Gold Mint Trail provides views of the Talkeetna Mountains, featuring a steady climb and some rocky sections. For more details on hiking, refer to the Hiking around Sutton-Alpine guide.
Yes, the Old Glenn Highway Bike Path is suitable for jogging and offers a picturesque journey. This path runs parallel to the Matanuska River, providing views of the river and Pioneer Peak. More information can be found in the Running Trails around Sutton-Alpine guide.
The region is defined by the Matanuska River, which forms its southern boundary, and is nestled between the Chugach and Talkeetna Mountains. Notable features include Pioneer Peak, visible from the Old Glenn Highway Bike Path, and Eska Falls, accessible via a dedicated trail. The nearby Matanuska Glacier is also a significant natural landmark.
Sutton-Alpine offers shorter, less strenuous hikes under 5 miles (8 km) with less than 1,500 feet (457 meters) of climb. These options are suitable for quicker outings or casual days, many still providing scenic views. The Lazy Moose Trail on Lazy Mountain offers a gradual ascent, making it easier on the knees.
For more adventurous hikers, routes extending beyond 10 miles (16 km) are available. These trails promise remote terrain, summit views, and full-day challenges within the Chugach and Talkeetna Mountains. The Gold Mint Trail, with its steady climb and rocky sections, presents a good challenge.
The Alpine Historical Park offers a glimpse into the region's rich coal mining heritage. It features exhibits on the coal mining era and the history of the Glenn Highway. This park combines historical exploration with natural beauty.
Sutton-Alpine has 2 routes listed on komoot, with more than 80 visitors having explored the area. These routes have an average rating of 5.0 out of 5 stars, indicating a high level of satisfaction among users. The region is popular for both hiking and jogging.
Komoot offers two main guides for the Sutton-Alpine region. These include the Hiking around Sutton-Alpine guide and the Running Trails around Sutton-Alpine guide. These resources provide detailed information on routes and activities.
Sutton-Alpine is part of the Matanuska-Susitna Borough. Official information can be found on the Matanuska-Susitna Borough's website at matsugov.us. The Mat-Su Convention and Visitors Bureau also provides visitor information at matsu.org/sutton.
Yes, the region offers various water sports. Popular spots like Coyote Lake Recreation Area and Seventeen Mile Lake are excellent for canoeing and kayaking. The Matanuska River also provides opportunities for rafting.
Trail elevation gains vary significantly in Sutton-Alpine. Shorter, less strenuous hikes may have less than 1,500 feet (457 meters) of climb. More challenging routes, such as the Gold Mint Trail, involve steady climbs and can lead to significant elevation gains for summit views.

