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Resurrection River Trail

4.6
·24 reviews·Seward, United States

Hike through a mossy Alaskan forest with stunning glacial views and waterfalls along the Resurrection River.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

June - September

Best weather for hiking

CrowdMedium
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Resurrection River Trail - Image 1

Resurrection River Trail

Best Time

June - September

Best weather for hiking

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Hike through a mossy Alaskan forest with stunning glacial views and waterfalls along the Resurrection River.

4.6
(24 reviews)

"A gem in the way to Exit Glacier, offering glorious waterfalls and majestic glacial views."

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Waterproof Footwear Essential

Expect muddy patches and creek crossings. Waterproof boots or water shoes are a must for comfort.

🐻 Bear Safety First

This is bear country. Carry bear spray and make noise to alert wildlife.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mossy Alaskan Forest

Mossy Alaskan Forest

Along the Resurrection River

Immerse yourself in the lush, moss-draped trees of the Alaskan Coast. A truly enchanting forest experience.

Glacial Views

Glacial Views

Distant peaks

Marvel at majestic glacial vistas that frame the stunning natural beauty of the area.

Waterfalls

Waterfalls

Along the river

Discover glorious waterfalls cascading down the mountainsides, adding to the trail's charm.

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Planning Your Visit

Be Prepared for Water Crossings

The Resurrection River Trail features several creek crossings. Water levels can be high, especially in early summer, so waterproof footwear or water shoes are highly recommended. Be ready for muddy sections too!

Wildlife Awareness is Key

This trail is in bear country. Always carry bear spray and know how to use it. While sightings are not guaranteed, being aware and making noise can help ensure a safe and enjoyable hike.

Best Times

When
June - September
Why
Best weather for hiking
Crowd
Medium
When
Early Morning
Why
Fewer people, better light
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Who has done the resurrection trail in Alaska?

🥾 Waterproof Footwear Essential

Expect muddy patches and creek crossings. Waterproof boots or water shoes are a must for comfort. Reddit

🐻 Bear Safety First

This is bear country. Carry bear spray and make noise to alert wildlife. Reddit

reddit.com

First time to Alaska, going to try the resurrection trail

reddit.com

First time to Alaska, going to try the resurrection trail

💧 Bring a Water Filter

Plenty of water sources along the trail, so a filter or purification tablets are handy. Reddit

🫐 Enjoy Wild Berries

Keep an eye out for delicious wild blueberries along the path during the season. Reddit

reddit.com

Good shorter hikes around Seward?

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Waterproof Footwear Essential

Expect muddy patches and creek crossings. Waterproof boots or water shoes are a must for comfort. Reddit

🐻 Bear Safety First

This is bear country. Carry bear spray and make noise to alert wildlife. Reddit

💧 Bring a Water Filter

Plenty of water sources along the trail, so a filter or purification tablets are handy. Reddit

🫐 Enjoy Wild Berries

Keep an eye out for delicious wild blueberries along the path during the season. Reddit

🚲 Bike & Horse Friendly

The trail is suitable for bikes and horses, though e-bikes may be restricted. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(24 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Resurrection River Trail is praised for its beautiful Alaskan scenery, including mossy forests, waterfalls, and glacial views. Hikers appreciate the relatively easy terrain and the peaceful, less crowded atmosphere. Some find the occasional creek crossings and muddy sections a minor challenge, but overall, it's considered a gem for enjoying nature.

"Great hike. Only made it 1.5 miles before a larger creek turned us back with my little kids. Easy enough for my 3 year old. River was high so flooded in a couple of spots but easy to get over"

Amanda Hamell

"Great hike with fantastic views. You will cross some creeks and deal with mud but it is worth the hike."

midnight sun travelers

"Really pretty, low amount of use/ people, Bear country 🐻🦦🦅"

Tyler Staverman

What People Like

Beautiful forest scenery
Glacial and waterfall views
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Muddy sections
Water crossings

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Resurrection River Trail is accessible from the Seward Highway. It's often accessed as part of a visit to nearby Exit Glacier. Parking is available at the trailhead. Reddit

Public transportation options directly to the trailhead are limited. Renting a car or using a shuttle service from Seward is generally the most convenient way to reach the Resurrection River Trail. Reddit

Using a reliable navigation app like AllTrails can be very helpful for the Resurrection River Trail, especially for tracking your progress and identifying points of interest. Reddit

Access to the Resurrection River Trail is typically free, but it's always a good idea to check for any park entrance fees or specific regulations for the area you're visiting. Reddit

Winter hiking on the Resurrection River Trail can be challenging due to snow and ice. Conditions vary, and it's advisable to check local reports and be prepared for winter conditions if attempting this in colder months. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, tickets are generally not required for the Resurrection River Trail itself. It's a public trail, but be aware of any park entrance fees if accessing it via a national park. Reddit

The Resurrection River Trail is typically open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, daylight hours and weather conditions will significantly impact your hiking experience. Reddit

For day hiking, a permit is usually not required for the Resurrection River Trail. However, if you plan to camp or engage in specific activities, check with the relevant land management agency for any permit requirements. Reddit

Dogs are generally allowed on the Resurrection River Trail, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check local regulations for specific pet policies. Reddit

There's no need to book or reserve a spot for day hiking on the Resurrection River Trail. It's a public access trail, so you can visit anytime. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The time to hike the Resurrection River Trail varies greatly depending on how far you go. A short out-and-back to a creek crossing might take 1-2 hours, while exploring further can take several hours or even a full day. Reddit

The Resurrection River Trail is generally considered easy to moderate. There are some ups and downs, but no drastic elevation climbs, making it accessible for many hikers. Reddit

Restroom facilities may be limited along the Resurrection River Trail. It's best to use facilities at the trailhead or nearby visitor centers before starting your hike. Reddit

You can expect to see various Alaskan wildlife, including bears, moose, and smaller mammals. Birdwatching is also popular. Always maintain a safe distance. Reddit

Yes, the Resurrection River Trail is suitable for children, especially for shorter distances. Parents should supervise closely, particularly near water crossings and in bear country. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Resurrection River Trail offers fantastic photo opportunities, including the mossy forest, waterfalls, glacial views, and the river itself. Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the scenery. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive forest and mountain views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife, and a sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions or capturing waterfall motion. Reddit

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic light for photography. However, the lush greenery is beautiful throughout the day, especially on overcast days which can soften the light. Reddit

While the entire trail is scenic, keep an eye out for clearings that offer wider vistas of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. The riverbanks also provide excellent framing for shots. Reddit

Focus on the movement of the water and the reflections. Consider using a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the water's surface and enhance colors. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Young Children

The Resurrection River Trail is a great option for families with young children due to its relatively flat terrain and engaging natural scenery. You can enjoy shorter out-and-back hikes, perhaps to the first few creek crossings, which are usually manageable for little legs. Reddit

Key advice: Pack extra snacks and drinks, and be prepared for muddy conditions and water crossings. Waterproof shoes for the kids are a lifesaver! Always supervise children closely, especially near the river and in bear country. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Hikers & Peace Seekers

If you're looking for a less crowded hiking experience, the Resurrection River Trail can be a good choice. While it's accessible, it doesn't see the same volume of visitors as some more famous nearby trails. Reddit

Solo hikers should prioritize safety: carry bear spray, let someone know your hiking plans, and be aware of your surroundings. The solitude can be incredibly rewarding, offering a chance to connect with nature. Reddit

📸 Nature Photographers

Photographers will find plenty to capture on the Resurrection River Trail, from the intricate details of the mossy forest to grand vistas of glaciers and waterfalls. The river itself provides dynamic foregrounds for landscape shots. Reddit

Tips for photographers: Visit during the golden hours for the best light. A wide-angle lens is perfect for the forest and mountains, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Don't forget a polarizing filter to manage reflections on the water. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Water Crossings

The Resurrection River Trail is known for its numerous creek crossings, which can range from gentle trickles to more substantial streams, especially after rain or during snowmelt. Many hikers find it essential to wear waterproof footwear or bring a pair of water shoes to comfortably navigate these sections. Be prepared for potentially muddy terrain surrounding the crossings. Reddit

Pro Tip: Check recent trail reports or ask locals about current water levels before you go, particularly if you're visiting in early summer. Some crossings might be impassable for very young children or those with mobility issues if the water is exceptionally high. Reddit

Wildlife Encounters and Safety

As with many Alaskan trails, the Resurrection River Trail is situated in bear country. Visitors are strongly advised to carry bear spray and be familiar with its use. Making noise while hiking, such as talking or singing, can help alert bears to your presence and prevent surprise encounters. Reddit

Beyond bears, keep an eye out for other local wildlife like moose, various bird species, and smaller mammals. Remember to always maintain a safe and respectful distance from all animals. Reddit

Community Insight: While bear sightings are possible, many hikers report a low amount of use on the trail, which can mean more solitude but also reinforces the need for vigilance. Reddit

Trail Conditions and Best Practices

The Resurrection River Trail offers a relatively easy hiking experience with gentle ups and downs, making it accessible for a wide range of fitness levels. The path winds through beautiful Alaskan forests, featuring mossy trees and scenic river views. Reddit

It's a multi-use trail, accommodating hikers, bikers, and horses. While e-bikes may have restrictions, the trail is generally well-maintained for its intended uses. Reddit

Essential Gear: Bringing a water filter is highly recommended, as there are many opportunities to refill your water bottle from the river. Also, be aware of potential muddy sections, especially after wet weather. Reddit

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