Chugach

Guide to Bird Valley Trail System in Chugach State Park Trail Descriptions Bird Creek Trails: Access: Bird Valley Trailhead Allowable Uses: Hike, Bike, Ski, Horseback, ATV, Snowmobile (down stream of Quartz Creek Ford, when conditions allow). ATV’s allowed April 1st through November 30th. Length: 13.2 miles total in lower valley; ATV & bike access ends 4 miles up the valley. Difficulty: Easy Elevation Gain: 400 feet Description: Numerous trails located around Bird and Penguin Creeks offering exploration of lower valley. Bird Creek Falls are located on west end of trail system. Bird Creek Valley to Bird Pass Trail: Access: Bird Valley Trailhead Allowable Uses: Hiking Length: 10 miles from trailhead to Bird Creek Pass Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult Elevation Gain: 1900 feet to Bird Creek Pass Description: Wide trail continues from mile 4 up valley to the Bird Creek crossing. Less developed trail continues for 2 miles, then quickly gains elevation to the pass. Travel to the east from Bird Creek Pass will lead to Grizzly Bear Lake & Moraine Pass. Penguin Peak Trail: Access: 0.5 mile from Bird Valley Trailhead Allowable Uses: Hiking Length: 2 miles Difficulty: Difficult Elevation Gain: 3200 feet Description: Short but steep. This less developed trail quickly gains elevation through alder thickets then emerges into the alpine which offers spectacular views of Turnagain Arm and the lower valleys. Safety and Considerations: Be prepared for an emergency, carry a satellite phone, file a trip plan with a friend. Bring drinking water or purify in the field. Salmon spawning area, bears are abundant. Be cautious when crossing Bird Creek. The water can be very cold and swift. Use water purification techniques for drinking water to avoid contracting Giardiasis (beaver fever). Area is subject to trapping. Special Features: The maze of trails in the lower valley is a popular destination for ATV’s in summer, and backcountry skiers in winter. Offers access to Penguin Ridge, and into the upper valley of North Fork Ship Creek (one of the most remote and scenic areas in the park). Park Rules: Dirt bikes are prohibited. Pets must be on a leash while in developed areas, and under control on trails and in the backcountry. Clean up after your pet. Camping is allowed as long as you are over ½ mile from the trailhead or developed road. Camping in an undeveloped area of a state park is limited to 10 consecutive days. Fires are allowed on gravel bars only. Visit http://dnr.alaska.gov/ parks/units/chugach for a complete set of park rules. Chugach State Park Headquarters Mile 115, Seward Highway (907) 345 - 5014 csp@alaska.gov