The Begich, Boggs Visitor Center at Chugach National Forest, not Chugach State Park, is closed for the season. When open, it operates from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, with a closure from 12-1 pm for lunch.
The entrance fee at Chugach State Park is $5 for a one-day vehicle pass, $10 for overnight parking, or $60 for an annual daily parking pass.
A 20-minute drive from downtown Anchorage via Seward Hwy (south) or Glenn Hwy (north). Eagle River Nature Center is accessible via Eagle River Loop and Hiland Rd.
Chugach State Park offers day-use parking lots, mostly $5, with honor system envelopes. No overnight parking for cars, RVs, or motorcycles. RVs and larger vehicles can use designated lots, but check size restrictions.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Chugach State Park is one of the largest state parks in the U.S., just minutes from Anchorage. With 495,204 acres of rugged terrain, it offers year-round adventure including hiking, skiing, camping, and wildlife viewing. Explore alpine tundra, glacial rivers, and boreal forests. Highlights include Eklutna Lake, Eagle River Nature Center, and the popular Flattop Mountain trail. Whether you’re backpacking into the wild or strolling a lakeside trail, this park is Alaska at its finest.
- Area (mi²)
- 774
- Annual visitors
- 1 000 000
- Established year
- 1970
Top 3 Facts about Chugach State Park
This park protects the water supply for Anchorage, ensuring the safety of the city’s hydration needs by overseeing the surrounding hilly region and its geographically diverse areas. Target practice is prohibited within its boundaries to maintain this critical function.
Diverse ecosystems support moose, bears, Dall sheep, lynx, and hundreds of bird species.
Flattop Mountain is the state’s most hiked peak and offers sweeping views of Anchorage.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Know trail difficulty and seasonal conditions in advance. Check for closures or bear alerts on the Alaska State Parks website.
Pack Appropriately
Dress in layers and bring waterproof outerwear. Hiking boots are essential for rugged and often wet terrain.
Respect Wildlife
Never feed or approach wildlife. Make noise when hiking to avoid surprising animals. Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
Stay Informed
Alaska weather is unpredictable. Check forecasts and avalanche conditions in winter. Be ready for quick changes in temperature and visibility.
Seasons
Trails begin to thaw, wildflowers bloom, and wildlife returns. Good for birding, hiking, and waterfall viewing. Conditions may be muddy at higher elevations.
Peak season with long daylight hours, lush landscapes, and endless hiking and biking. Lakes and trails are accessible; best time for general recreation.
Crisp air and colorful foliage. Wildlife sightings increase, and trails are quieter. A great time for photos and solitude.
Snow blankets the terrain—ideal for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and quiet winter hikes. Be avalanche-aware and prepared.
