Discover Blueberry Knoll
Location: Palmer, Alaska – The trailhead for Blueberry Knoll is about 15 minutes from downtown Palmer.
Overview: The Blueberry Knoll Trail at Government Peak Recreation Area (GPRA) near Hatcher Pass is a favorite for locals in all seasons. Short and steep, with sweeping views of surrounding mountains, it attracts everyone from families with kids to runners training for big races.
Elevation gain: 1,500 feet
Mileage: About 3.5 miles round trip
Terrain: This hiking trail winds gradually up through a forest of birch, spruce, and cottonwood trees. After about ¾ of a mile, it becomes steep and can be muddy in places. Near the knoll, the terrain levels out until the final very short clamber to the top.
Why we love it: From the summit, expect sweeping views of the valley, the Chugach Mountains, the Talkeetna Mountains, and Hatcher Pass. Ambitious hikers can continue towards the Government Peak summit, a challenging climb to the peak above Blueberry Knoll.
Hike description: Called BBK for short, this footpath ascends from the GPRA parking lot to the base of the mountains. A picnic table at that spot is often a destination in itself for casual hikers. From there, your heart and lungs will get a thorough workout as you climb through boreal forest to emerge along the first scenic ridge overlooking the Mat-Su Valley. From there, another steep section tops out for even better views. The knoll sports a picnic table and plenty of space for group photos.
Parking: This is a Mat-Su Borough maintained trail and parking area. The paved lot has ample parking space. A day parking pass can be purchased using electronic payment on-site at the GPRA Chalet.
Guide Notes
This is an out-and-back trail, moderate to difficult for most. The big rock about one mile from the trailhead is a great place to rest, as is the first “overlook” above it.
The trail is eroded in some steep areas and can be tricky for some to navigate.
Accessible year-round, but bring ice cleats for winter. Trekking poles are a good idea here in all seasons.
