Hike Lekisch Trail at Kincaid Park

The 7.5 km (4.7 mile) Lekisch trail is considered the most challenging trail at Kincaid. It was designed as an expert cross-country ski trail. It includes some rather steep hills and some long hills, so is appropriate for moderate-level hikers. It's a good place to hike with ski poles for a bit of upper body workout.

Bring water, bear spray, extra layers, and maybe a camera for the beautiful views. Participants may hike at different speeds and get spread out. This hike includes a number of cut-offs that can be either welcome shortcuts or feel like a confusing maze. I don't anticipate the hike to take the full 2 hours (I had to choose between 1.5 and 2).

We'll meet on the multi-use trail just south of the diagonal parking and walk east toward (but not through) the tunnel, then uphill and to the right.
If you hike slowly, please bring a friend to hike with. I am not a guide or a safety person; participants are responsible for their own well-being.

This trail is named after Andrew Lekisch (1972-1987), a promising young cross-country skier, runner, and biker who tragically died while on a training run with friends in the Chugach Mtns. He competed on the West Anchorage High school cross-country ski and running teams. An all-around athlete and excellent student, he strived to do well in everything he undertook. Family and friends funded and built Andrew’s trail, aka the Lekisch Trail, in his memory. His mother Ellen Lekisch created and maintains a wonderful flower garden at the entrance to the trail as a lasting tribute to her son.
The Lekisch Trail is maintained by the Nordic Ski Association of Anchorage.