3 Ways to Hike Lazy Mountain (and Why You’ll Love Each One)
If you're planning an Alaska hiking adventure, Lazy Mountain should be on your list! Located just a short drive from downtown Palmer, Alaska (about an hour from Anchorage), this local favorite offers several routes to the summit, each with unique advantages. Whether you’re after a steep challenge or a more scenic trek, here are three ways to experience one of the best hikes in Southcentral Alaska.
Lazy Mountain Routes By the Numbers:
| Route | Mileage (Trailhead to Summit) | Elevation Gain | Gaia Route | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steep Side | 2.1 miles | 2,904 feet | Here | No switchbacks! Not recommended during spring thaw or heavy rain—mud can become very slick. |
| Lazy Moose | 3.7 miles | 2,988 feet | Here | The longest, but least strenuous route to the top. |
| Via Mat Peak Trail | 2.9 miles | 3,054 feet | Here | The least traveled route. Still steep, but not as intense as the steep side. |
Lazy Mountain Route Details
1. The Steep Trail – A Classic Alaska Hiking Challenge
This is the most direct and most demanding way to summit Lazy Mountain. The steep trail starts at the Lazy Mountain Recreation Area and climbs about 3,000 feet in less than 2.5 miles. The first 1,000 feet of climbing is completed in about a mile; the second half of the trail offers some reprieve.
Perfect for experienced hikers or anyone seeking a short, intense Alaska hiking experience. Making it to the first picnic table (about halfway) is a serious accomplishment in itself. Call that your summit and loop back via Lazy Moose or continue to the true summit, another 1,300 feet of ascent.
Highlights: Big elevation gain in a short amount of time. Most of the first mile is through dense vegetation - lots of Devil’s Club and Cow Parsnip, but throughout the climb, there are pockets with scenic views of the Butte, Pioneer Peak, and the Matanuska River. After the first picnic table, vegetation starts to fade until hikers quickly find themselves in alpine tundra. The path to the summit is easy to navigate, with a few false summits along the way.
Pro tip: Poles and sturdy shoes are a must. This trail (particularly the first half) is steep and slick when wet. It can be a tough descent during the spring thaw and heavy rains.
Parking: This trail and parking area are maintained by the Mat-Su Borough. An electronic kiosk is available that accepts electronic payment only. Cash is not accepted. If you frequent Mat-Su Borough trails, consider purchasing an annual pass. As of 2025, the parking area is gated.
2. Lazy Moose Trail – Mellow and Scenic
The Lazy Moose Trail is a gentler, forested alternative to the steep trail. Both trails join at the first picnic table, so the second half of the climb is the same regardless of which route you take. This winding route still gets you to the top, but with more switchbacks and a moderate incline.
Perfect for: Families, first-time Alaska hikers, or those who want a more relaxing hike.
Highlights: Gradual climb through the boreal forest. We love this route for the wildflowers (especially in June) and fewer crowds.
Pro tip: This trail links with the steep trail at the first picnic table. We like going up the steep route and down the Lazy Moose trail to give the knees a break! During the winter months, this trail can be very difficult to navigate.
Parking: This trail and parking area are maintained by the Mat-Su Borough (the lot is the same as the steep side). An electronic kiosk is available that accepts electronic payment only. Cash is not accepted. If you frequent Mat-Su Borough trails, consider purchasing an annual pass. As of 2025, the parking area is gated.
3. Matanuska Peak Trail – The Trail Less Traveled
Looking for an Alaska hike with more solitude and alpine scenery? Take the Matanuska Peak Trail from Smith Road. While not a direct route to Lazy Mountain, it offers the chance to explore the back side of the peak with scenic views of the Matanuska Peak bowl.
Perfect for: Hikers seeking a quiet, off-the-beaten-path Alaska trail experience.
Highlights: Sweeping tundra views, remote feel, scenic views of Matanuska Peak and the Chugach range for most of the ascent. Hikers will ascend the Matanska Peak trail until 2,300’. Here, there is a significant intersection marked by a large wooden tripod (photo below). The Matanuska Peak trail continues straight toward the Mat Peak Bowl. The trail to Lazy Mountain takes a left-hand (north) turn and begins climbing almost immediately. While Lazy Moose and the steep side join at the first picnic table, the Mat Peak route doesn’t join the main Lazy Mountain trail until past the second picnic table (about 3,500’) so hiking the mountain via this route offers a completely different experience.
Pro tip: This can also be turned into a loop! Ascend the Mat Peak trail to Lazy Mountain, descend either the Lazy Moose trail or the Lazy steep trail, and return to the Matanuska Peak trailhead via the Morgan Horse Trail.
Parking: This trail and parking area are maintained by the Mat-Su Borough; however, as of summer 2025, no fee station was present. The lot itself is very small. If full, additional parking is available along the roadside, but be mindful of driveways and private property. If you frequent Mat-Su Borough trails, consider purchasing an annual pass.
Safety & Gear Tips for Alaska Hiking
Although a short hike (most folks can expect to complete the hike in 4-6 hours), we still recommend packing the essentials and being prepared for Alaska’s dynamic conditions.
Layered clothing: Include a waterproof shell, warm layer, and wicking base layer.
Sturdy hiking boots: With ankle support and good traction for rocky or muddy sections.
Trekking poles: Extremely helpful for the descent from the steep side and the Matanuska Peak trail.
Navigation tools: A GPS app with offline maps (like Gaia GPS or CalTopo) and/or a paper map and compass.
Extra water and high-energy snacks: There are no reliable water sources on the mountain.
Bear spray: Encounters are rare above treeline, but it's good practice in Alaska.
Sun protection: Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen are essential in the open alpine terrain.
For custom-guided hikes in Alaska, we provide safety gear and trail expertise, so you can enjoy the scenery with peace of mind. We don’t offer guided Lazy Mountain hikes as a standard trip option, but we’re happy to put together a custom guided hike!
