The best walks and hikes in Kodiak Island Borough
4.7
(6)
65
hikers
21
hikes
Hiking in Kodiak Island Borough offers diverse landscapes, from rugged mountains and alpine ridges to rolling green hillsides, wetlands, and dramatic coastlines. The region, often referred to as "Alaska's Emerald Isle," features dense spruce forests, moss-covered trees, and meadows. Almost two-thirds of Kodiak Island is protected within the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge, preserving its untouched valleys and rivers. This environment supports a significant population of Kodiak brown bears and other wildlife.
Best hiking trails in Kodiak Island Borough
- The most popular hiking route is Kodiak Military History Museum – Miller Point gun mounts loop from Fort Abercrombie State Historical Park, a 3.2 miles (5.2 km) trail that takes 1 hour 26 minutes to complete. This easy route explores historical sites and coastal views within the state park.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Barometer Mountain loop from Kodiak Airport, a moderate 3.4 miles (5.5 km) path. This route involves significant elevation gain, leading to panoramic views of the surrounding area.
- Local hikers also love the North End Trail – Viewpoint loop from Kodiak, a 3.2 miles (5.1 km) trail leading through forested areas and offering viewpoints, often completed in about 1 hour 23 minutes.
- Hiking in Kodiak Island Borough is defined by dense spruce forests, rugged coastlines, and rolling hills. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy walks to more challenging ascents.
- The routes in Kodiak Island Borough are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from 4 reviews. More than 25 hikers have used komoot to explore Kodiak Island Borough's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
4.7
(3)
9
hikers
4.29km
01:11
80m
80m
Easy 2.7-mile hike in Fort Abercrombie State Historical Park, combining coastal views, spruce forests, and WWII historical sites.
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
2.69km
00:43
20m
20m
Enjoy an easy 1.7-mile hike on Near Island South End Trail with coastal views of Chiniak Bay and Kodiak, perfect for families and dogs.
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3.16km
00:51
40m
40m
This easy 2.0-mile (3.2 km) hike on Near Island offers forested paths, rocky beaches, and ocean views near Kodiak, Alaska.
1
hikers
2.78km
01:39
670m
0m
Hike Barometer Mountain, a challenging 1.7-mile (2.8 km) route on Kodiak Island with 2187 feet (667 metres) of gain and panoramic views.
3.16km
01:32
510m
40m
Hike the Three Sisters Trail on Kodiak Island, a moderate 2.0-mile route with 1667 feet of elevation gain and panoramic coastal views.
1.96km
00:48
240m
0m
Hike the easy Pillar Mountain Trail for 1.2 miles (2.0 km) to gain 796 feet (243 metres) and enjoy panoramic views of Kodiak and its mountai
5.86km
02:02
350m
250m
Hike the moderate Old Womens Mountain Trail for 3.6 miles (5.9 km) to enjoy panoramic views of Kodiak and a ridge-top lake.
3.34km
01:13
340m
0m
Hike the moderate 2.1 miles (3.3 km) Heitman Mountain Trail on Kodiak Island for panoramic summit views and diverse terrain.
1.90km
00:30
20m
20m
Easy 1.2-mile hike on the Spruce Cape Trail near Kodiak, Alaska, featuring spruce forests, sea cliffs, and a rocky beach.
13.8km
04:20
750m
100m
Hike the moderate Heitman Mountain Trail on Kodiak Island, offering 8.6 miles of diverse terrain and panoramic views of mountains and the Ba
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Other adventures in Kodiak Island Borough
Tips from the Community
The most obvious thing you'll see here is the remains of two mounts for World War II-era eight-inch gun mounts; there's an example of what the guns themselves looked like, too. That said, don't forget to look out over the water, too. The point is a great lookout for spotting humpback, gray, and fin whales, and sometimes killer whales (orcas) as well.
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It may not look like much from the outside, but this volunteer-run museum is a real gem. Housed in a World War II-era ammunitions bunker, it contains a number of military artifacts dating as far back as World War II. Many of them are still in working order and meant to be touched and interacted with, including an old teletype machine and field radios. Unfortunately, visitor hours are very limited, but it's worth planning a trip to see it. Visit the website for more information: http://kadiak.org/museum/museum.html
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Kodiak Island Borough?
Kodiak Island Borough offers a selection of hiking trails, with komoot featuring 4 routes. These range from easy walks to more challenging ascents, exploring diverse landscapes.
When is the best time to go hiking in Kodiak Island Borough?
The optimal time for hiking in Kodiak Island Borough is generally from May to September. During these months, the weather is milder, and extended daylight hours provide ideal conditions to explore the island's diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Kodiak Island Borough?
Yes, Kodiak Island Borough offers several easy trails suitable for families. For instance, the Kodiak Military History Museum – Miller Point gun mounts loop from Fort Abercrombie State Historical Park is an easy 3.2-mile route exploring historical sites and coastal views. The Near Island Trail System, easily accessible from downtown Kodiak, also provides family-friendly paths through mossy forests and to observation decks.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see while hiking on Kodiak Island?
Kodiak Island is renowned for its abundant wildlife. Hikers frequently encounter the iconic Kodiak brown bear, red foxes, river otters, and Sitka black-tailed deer. Coastal areas offer sightings of sea otters, harbor seals, Steller sea lions, and various whale species. It's also a birdwatcher's paradise, with bald eagles, puffins, and numerous waterfowl.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous experience, the Barometer Mountain loop from Kodiak Airport is a moderate 3.4-mile path involving significant elevation gain. This route rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area. Pillar Mountain also offers a challenging ascent with stunning ocean and town vistas.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the area?
Yes, several routes in Kodiak Island Borough are designed as loops. Examples include the Kodiak Military History Museum – Miller Point gun mounts loop from Fort Abercrombie State Historical Park and the North End Trail – Viewpoint loop from Kodiak, both offering convenient circular paths to explore the landscape.
What are some notable landmarks or natural features to look out for on the trails?
Kodiak Island's trails lead to diverse natural and historical features. You can explore World War II relics at Fort Abercrombie State Historical Park, enjoy panoramic ocean views from Pillar Mountain, or discover unique geological formations at Fossil Beach. Anton Larsen Bay also features scenic hikes leading to natural wonders like waterfalls and Cascade Lake.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Kodiak Island Borough?
The trails in Kodiak Island Borough are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from 4 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from dense spruce forests to rugged coastlines, and the opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Is public transport available to reach trailheads?
While specific public transport routes directly to all trailheads might be limited, the Near Island Trail System is easily accessible from downtown Kodiak. For other trailheads, checking local bus schedules like the Kodiak Area Transit System (KATS) or arranging private transport would be advisable.
Are there any trails that offer scenic viewpoints?
Absolutely. Many trails in Kodiak Island Borough provide stunning vistas. The North End Trail – Viewpoint loop from Kodiak is specifically known for its viewpoints. Additionally, the challenging ascent of Pillar Mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean and the town below.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Kodiak Island's hiking trails?
Kodiak Island offers incredibly varied terrain. You can expect to hike through dense Sitka spruce forests, across moss-covered ground, along rugged coastlines, and up rolling green hillsides. Some trails also feature wetlands and alpine ridges, providing a diverse hiking experience.
Are there any trails near Kodiak City?
Yes, the Near Island Trail System is easily accessible from downtown Kodiak, offering several miles of trails through mossy forests and to observation decks. The North End Trail – Viewpoint loop from Kodiak also starts conveniently close to the city.
Most popular routes in Kodiak Island Borough
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