The best walks and hikes around Lazy Mountain
5.0
(11)
175
hikers
15
hikes
Hikes around Lazy Mountain offer a mix of challenging ascents and rewarding views near Palmer, Alaska. The area is characterized by its prominent peak, with trails that climb from dense forests of birch and spruce into open alpine tundra. The routes provide expansive views over the Matanuska and Knik River valleys and the surrounding Chugach Mountains.
Best hiking trails around Lazy Mountain
- The most popular hiking route is Lazy Mountain, a 4.4 mile (7.0 km) trail that takes aboutβ¦
Last updated: June 23, 2026
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
1.85km
00:43
200m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
13.3km
04:16
630m
490m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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6.65km
02:48
860m
70m
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.
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Popular around Lazy Mountain
Tips from the Community
From Bodenburg Butte you have a great 360Β° view of the surrounding mountains and the Knik Glacier, which feeds the Knik River of the same name. The butte itself was also formed by glacial activity. The panoramic view is definitely worth the strenuous climb (including a staircase with 527 steps).
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Technically this is the trailhead for Eska Falls, and from here the trail becomes a fun, swooping singletrack. But the approach road to get here is rarely maintained and ranges from sketchy to "thou shall not pass" in drivability for most vehicles, so it makes good sense β and a good warm-up β to bike here from an easy parking spot shortly after the pavement ends. This is a popular hiking trail too, so please watch out for slower-moving people on foot.
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This bridge across the mighty Matanuska River is dedicated solely to foot and bike traffic. The water's generally murky appearance and sometimes lovely coloring (depending on the light) comes from tiny silt particles that were ground up by the Matanuska Glacier and eventually make their way downstream.
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If you like running stairs, this is the destination for you. The trail up this 874 feet (266Β m) butte has hundreds of stairs on it. It's also very popular with hikers and has very little room to pass, so if you're planning to run you might want to aim for a less-crowded time of day. (During the day on weekdays is usually a fairly safe bet. This trail is almost never entirely empty, but it's less likely to be crowded during the day.)
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Spanning the picturesque Matanuska River, this footbridge offers a unique way to experience the natural beauty of Alaska. As you cross the bridge, you'll be treated to stunning views of the river's clear waters, the surrounding Chugach Mountains, and the lush landscapes along the Old Glenn Highway.
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At just 874 feet (266Β m) in elevation, you might not expect much from Bodenburg Butte. But it sits like an island in the middle of flat farmland, so climbing up to the rocky top of the butte β via a trail that is roughly 25% stairs β provides really beautiful views of the lush farmland around you and the nearby mountains.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult are the hikes around Lazy Mountain?
The hikes range from easy to challenging. The main Lazy Mountain trail is a steep and strenuous climb, considered a tough workout. For a more gradual ascent with switchbacks, the Lazy Moose Trail is a better option. There are also easier walks nearby for those seeking less of a challenge.
Are there any family-friendly trails in the area?
Yes, the Lazy Mountain via Lazy Moose Trail is a great choice for families. It offers a gentler, more leisurely climb compared to the direct route. For an even easier and shorter option, the West Butte Trail to Bodenburg Butte is a popular, relatively flat walk with rewarding views.
Can I hike Lazy Mountain in the winter?
Yes, Lazy Mountain is a popular year-round hiking destination. During winter, the trails are often covered in ice and snow, so it's essential to be prepared. Most hikers use microspikes or other traction devices for safety.
How long does it take to hike to the summit?
The time to the summit varies by the trail you choose. The direct, steep route can take around 3.5 hours for the round trip. The longer, more gradual Lazy Moose Trail takes significantly longer, often over 4.5 hours. Your personal pace and breaks will also affect the total time.
Are there any circular or loop hikes available?
A very popular option is to create a loop by ascending the steep, direct Lazy Mountain Trail and descending via the gentler, more knee-friendly Lazy Moose Trail. The Lazy Moose Trail loop from Palmer is a great example of this combination.
What kind of views can I expect?
The views are spectacular. About halfway up the mountain, there's a clearing with a picnic table offering sweeping vistas of the Knik and Matanuska Rivers. From the summit, you get a full panorama that includes the Knik River estuary, the Talkeetna Mountains, and the Chugach Mountains.
Where is the trailhead and is there parking?
The main trailhead is the Lazy Mountain Trail Head, located at the end of Mountain Trail Circle near Palmer. There is a parking area available, which is a popular starting point for most hikes up the mountain.
Should I be concerned about bears on the trails?
Yes, this is bear country. Both black and grizzly bears inhabit the area. It is crucial to be bear-aware: make noise while you hike, carry bear spray, know how to use it, and never leave food unattended. Store all food and scented items securely.
What is the best time of year to hike Lazy Mountain?
Lazy Mountain can be hiked year-round, but the most popular time is from late spring to fall. The trail tends to dry out earlier in the spring than other local climbs. June is particularly beautiful for wildflowers along the Lazy Moose Trail. Fall offers crisp air and autumn colors.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Lazy Mountain?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of nearly 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the challenging workout, the well-maintained trails, and the incredible panoramic views from the summit and various viewpoints along the way.
Are there any less strenuous hikes in the region?
If you're looking for a hike with minimal elevation gain, the Long Lake Conector in the nearby Matanuska Lakes State Recreation Area is an excellent choice. It provides a pleasant walk through the forest without the strenuous climbing of the mountain trails.
Where can I find official information on trail status?
For the most current official information, including trail conditions and any alerts for the Lazy Mountain area, it's a good idea to check the Matanuska-Susitna Borough trails website at matsu.gov.
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