Intermediate hikes in Chugiak/Eagle River
These hikes are great starter hikes for people looking to "climb" mountains instead of hiking level trails.
Other websites to explore local hiking options:
Mt. Baldy
This is the most popular hike in the Eagle River area. Take Skyline Dr. to the very end of the road (the road name changes a few times on your way up; just keep going straight on the main road. You will arrive a the end of the road with two gates -- one at the end of the road, and one angling uphill. Park on the south side of the road. The trail is generally broad and easy. However, near the top of the mountain, the trail gets a lot steeper with some loose rock. This is a great, easy "climb" to start with. Because there are always plenty of people on the trail, wildlife or other dangers are minimal.
Harp Mountain
This is a substantial hike with a fairly relentless climb. Drive to the end of Hiland/South Fork Valley by turning onto Hiland Dr. When you see the sign/turn for the South Fork trailhead, keep going straight until the road ends at a culdesac. Park on the uphill side. Watch for "no parking" and "private property" signs. Harp Mountain is the major peak to your east. Take the ridge to your south all the way to the top. The views are incredible! However, be aware that while you can hike this peak in the winter, and many do, Harp Mountain can have avalanche dangers.
Rendezvous Peak and Mt. Gordon-Lyon
These two small peaks are to the right and left, respectfully, as you reach the end of the Arctic Valley trail. Both peaks are easy climbs. For more information on Arctic Valley, check out this post.
Gold Star Peak
I haven't done this one (yet), but I've heard it's a good one! It's in Eklutna valley. Find more info here!
Bear Mountain
Take the Peters Creek exit. Right of the exit onto Ski Rd. Follow until the road comes to a "T." Turn right. Follow the main road all the way up. You'll see a trailhead sign at the end of Malcom drive. Go through the gate and you'll find yourself on a wide, old roadbed. Go another 100 yards or so and you'll see a trail heading up the mountain to your left. Be aware that the first portion of the trail crosses private property. In fact, the owners built a cabin near the trail. Follow the path. The second half of the hike is steeper and will give you a good workout. Once you get to the top, you'll be on a big plateau. If you go west, you can hike to a point overlooking Peters Creek and the Matsu Valley. If you head east, you can access Sawtooth and Eklutna Peaks. I like this trail because it's near my house and is far less traveled than the Baldy trail.
Mile-Hi
Mile-Hi is an unimproved trail that starts on the north side of Eagle River Valley. To get there, take either Steward Dr or Mile Hi Ave. Continue up the steep, switchback roads until you find the trailhead near the end of the road. The trail goes up into a saddle of the ridge. From there, you can do a short hike onto the ridge on your left. If you take a right, the trail follows the ridge to Mt. Tucker and Mount Magnificant. Mt. Tucker is an excellent hike with astounding views. The approach to Mount Magnificent includes a narrow, steep ridge, and is probably not best for newer hikers.
Twin Peaks Trail
This trailhead starts near the Eklutna Lake campground. The trail works its way up the mountain towards Twin Peaks, which you really shouldn't climb without lots of experience. Halfway up the trail is the beginning of Pepper Peak, which is a manageable hike. Once you get above the treeline, the views are phenomenal!