FATMAP by Strava

Skookum Volcano

Stunning hike to a gorgeous mountain pass.

Hiking Severe

Distance
8.2 km
Ascent
651 m
Descent
651 m
Duration
2-3 hrs
Low Point
879 m
High Point
1.5 km
Gradient
15˚
Skookum Volcano Map

The Skookum Volcano Trail is a "short but steep trail to a high pass with outstanding views of the surrounding area," according to TrailheadTraveler.com.

Description

The hike begins by following a creek up a low valley as it approaches the big mountains. The trail crosses the creek many, many times, guaranteeing that you'll get wet feet. Early in the year, the creek can become a torrent with icy snowmelt and can prove dangerous--exercise caution.

The NPS notes that the hike provides access to "wildlife, spectacular scenery, alpine plants, and volcanic geology. This trail leads through an extinct, deeply eroded volcanic system and provides an opportunity to examine picturesque volcanic geology. Erosion has exposed dramatic examples of rhyolite and dacite domes, andesite lava flows, vents, and many erosion-resistant dikes."

The trail isn't always well-marked, and due to the many creek crossings, it can often be washed out. Sometimes there are cairns marking the route, but other times the cairns may have been washed out, too. Like all hikes in Alaska, even despite this trail's relatively short length, this is still a true backcountry excursion!

Difficulty

Severe

Hiking challenging trails where simple scrambling, with the occasional use of the hands, is a distinct possibility. The trails are often filled with all manner of obstacles both small and large, and the hills are very steep. Obstacles and challenges are often unexpected and can be unpredictable.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

3 out of 4

Little chance of being seen or helped in case of an accident.

Best time to visit

between July and September

Features

  • Alpine
  • Picturesque

Guidebooks in this area