Powerline Pass Trail

The Powerline Pass Trail is one of the premier long-distance hiking routes in Chugach State Park, following a broad valley beneath the eponymous high-tension power line corridor from the Glen Alps trailhead to the pass at nearly 3,550 feet elevation. Despite its industrial namesake, the trail traverses spectacular alpine tundra terrain that showcases the full grandeur of the western Chugach Mountains.

The route follows a wide, well-maintained gravel path for its lower sections before transitioning to open tundra as the valley narrows and steepens toward the pass. The surrounding Chugach peaks rise in jagged, glaciated ranks on either side of the valley, with numerous hanging glaciers and permanent snowfields visible throughout the year. The scale of the mountain landscape is humbling, with summits exceeding 5,000 feet flanking the relatively gentle pass terrain.

Dall sheep are commonly observed on the ridgelines above the trail, their white coats standing out against the dark rock even at considerable distance. Brown bears frequent the valley, particularly in late summer when the alpine blueberry crop ripens, and bear awareness practices are essential throughout the season. The expansive views from Powerline Pass encompass the full Chugach Mountain panorama on one side and the distant Alaska Range on the other on clear days. This is an ambitious but deeply rewarding full-day outing that delivers a genuine backcountry experience within reach of a major American city.