An Alpine Backcountry Adventure
- Approx. 5 Hours
- 6.6 Miles
- 1,200 ft. Elevation Gain
- Moderate Difficulty
- Ages 10+
- $198
- Meet in Moose Pass
- Follow Guide to Trailhead
- Small Group Tour
Venture deep into Alaska’s alpine wilderness on this invigorating guided hike. The Path of the Glaciers trail winds through dense forest, up a rugged ridge, and into a breathtaking glacial valley lined with wildflowers, crystal-clear lakes, and towering peaks.
Your guide leads you along the Carter Lake Trail, gaining roughly 1,200 feet of elevation over 6.6 miles round-trip. The climb is front-loaded, with about 800 feet of gain in the first mile as you ascend through spruce forest into the alpine zone.
At two miles, Carter Lake shimmers below rugged ridgelines—perfect for a water break and a chance to spot ptarmigan along the shore. From here, continue into a sweeping alpine valley toward the tip of Crescent Lake, surrounded by mountains and glacial remnants. Take in expansive views and enjoy well-earned trail snacks before retracing your steps back to the trailhead.
What's Included
- Professional, knowledgeable hiking guide
- Local Moose Pass stories and trail tales
- Geology, ecology, and wildlife insights along the trail
- Trail snacks to keep you fueled
- The chance to refill your water bottle with filtered alpine lake water
What You'll Need
- Sturdy hiking boots or shoes (waterproof recommended)
- Weather-appropriate clothing (layers encouraged)
- Rain gear
- Daypack with full water bottle and personal essentials
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Gratuity for your guide (optional, but appreciated!)
When & How Much
Tour Meeting Time: 1:00 PM
Approximate End Time: 6:00 PM
Custom times may be accommodated with advance notice.
Price: $198 per person; ages 10+ are welcome.
Taxes and fees are not included in the above rates.
Where
Meet at our Moose Pass Adventures base for check-in, orientation, and gear check. You’ll then follow your guide in your own vehicle for a short 5-minute drive to the trailhead (free parking available at both locations).
Please Note: Transportation to the trailhead is not included. The benefit? You’re free to continue your Alaska adventure directly from the trailhead—no need to backtrack!
Other Details
This is a moderate, out-and-back trail totaling 6.6 miles round trip with ~1,200 feet of elevation gain (including a steep climb of 800 feet in the first mile). Restrooms are available at our base before departure, but there are no restrooms on the trail.
Please note this is a group tour involving physical activity in a wilderness environment. Guests should be comfortable hiking on uneven, rocky terrain, and prepared for changing mountain weather. While we recommend this hike for ages 10 and up due to the trail length and elevation gain, families with younger children are welcome to contact us to discuss whether this adventure is a good fit for your child.
Private tours are available.