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Tyler Diedrick

I didn’t complete the whole hike due to cloud cover and darkness, but made it about half way before turning back. The views of Quito and the surrounding areas were absolutely stunning!

Based on the difficulty being low, I typically wouldn’t rate so high, but the views at the end make it awesome! For only being a 1000+ ft up they are great views over Skilak

This hike was just what I was looking for in mid-October. Didn’t see a single other person for the entirety and my car was the only one in the lot. View of the Knik Glacier was 🔥. First picnic table is about 1.25-1.5 hours at a quick-ish pace.

If you are looking for a very brief, quick, highly trafficked hike, this is it. The waterfall is beautiful but for something that can be accomplished in under 30 minutes, not even sure if it is worth the $5 parking...

Started the hike and noticed various “no trespassing” signs on the main trail. I decided to take a side trail along the river which was pretty but eventually the trail came to an end and there were more “no trespassing” signs in both directions. The gun range described seems to be very close to the left of me walking. Ended up eventually turning back before making it to the ice fields as there was no trail and I really started to get the feeling I was trespassing.

Did the hike mid-October... fresh snow-covered made it an increasing challenge the higher up you got. Great way to spend 2-3 hours

The 7 mile trail by vehicle was nothing short of spectacular... feeding all the animals was so much fun. Let’s just say they were nothing short of shy, sticking their heads right into your vehicle to eat. Beware of the ostriches :)

The hike at Caprock was awesome! If you like a challenge, try out the Haynes Ridge Overlook Trail. It is by far the most challenging and brings you around the outer rim of the canyon. Then, connect with the Upper Canyon Trail to see Fern Cave and The Last Dance Hoodoos. There is also a perfect spot to interact with prairie dogs and there is a good chance you will see bison roaming as well.

If you have the chance, try to stay in one of the 3 cabins overnight as they each overlook the canyon... cannot wake up to a better view. I personally stayed in the Lighthouse Cabin which sleeps up to 4 people. In terms of the hike, I recommend the Givens, Spicer, Lowry Trail to get to the Lighthouse. It is the most demanding of the trails in that portion of the canyon.

If you are looking for a quick jog close to the city and want to look at trees instead of buildings this is for you. If you want a true adventure and want to get away into the wilderness, this is not. No matter where you are on the trail you can always hear traffic and/or see buildings. It’s also super busy with people. Just depends on what you’re looking for!