LONG HIKE: Middle Fork Loop

UPDATE: CANCELING THIS HIKE! not enough people to feel safe on this one.

# 🥾 LONG HIKE: Middle Fork Loop

Distance: Approximately 9 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,500 ft
Estimated Time: 4–5 hours
Trailhead: Glen Alps
I'm kicking off a new 20 Miles a Week hiking schedule with one of my favorite longer routes in the Anchorage area!
We'll hike the Middle Fork Loop, combining beautiful forest, mountain views, open terrain and enough climbing to make this a good workout without the sustained steepness of some of our summit hikes.
Please be comfortable hiking approximately 9 miles at a steady group pace.

### 🥾 What to Expect

We'll stay together as a group and take reasonable breaks, but this is not a beginner hike. You should already be comfortable hiking several hours over uneven terrain.
Alaska trail conditions can change quickly. Expect roots, rocks, mud and potentially wet sections.

### 🎒 What to Bring

• Water — plenty for a 4–5 hour hike
• Snacks/lunch
• Hiking boots or sturdy trail shoes
• Layers appropriate for the weather
• Rain protection
• Bear spray
• Trekking poles if you use them

### 🐻 Wildlife

This is bear and moose country. Please carry bear spray and know how to use it. We'll hike together and make appropriate noise on the trail.

### 🚗 Parking

We'll meet at the Prospect Heights Parking lot. Don't forget the $5 fee! Please allow extra time for parking, particularly if the lot is busy.

### ⚠️ Important

Hiking involves inherent risks including wildlife encounters, falls, changing weather and difficult trail conditions. By attending, you acknowledge these risks and participate at your own risk.
Please RSVP only if you're comfortable with the mileage and difficulty.
Let's get some miles in! 🥾🏔️