Trail description:

Ship Creek trail is unusual in that it is mostly used in the winter time, due to being overly muddy in other seasons. The first few miles of the trail zig-zags it's way towards the bottom of Arctic Valley. Eventually a post is reached with a sign indicating Ship Creek Trail is to the left. Several frozen streams must be crossed along the way. Eventually Ship Creek should appear on the right, which is actually a river, despite the name. One can follow the trail for quite a ways, and either head back the same way, or continue down the whole valley for a much longer trek to Indian Valley (just over 20 miles, cross country skis recommended).

Difficulty:

If this were year round hike, I'd rate it pretty easy. However, walking through snow with several layers on does bump the difficulty up a bit. Also be prepared for the short amount of daylight hours available in the winter.

Directions:

From Anchorage, take the Glen Highway northbound for about 5 minutes from city limits, and take the exit onto Arctic Valley Road. Continue for about 6 and a half miles into the mountains. There should be a small parking area (plowed out of the snow in front of a gate) around the left at this time. The trail itself is on the right side of the road and a sign marking the starting point can be seen after crossing the snow burm.

Additional Information:

The trail is not groomed. I would suggest hiking here with snowshoes or cross country skis.