Anchorage, Alaska: Hiking the Flattop Mountain



After a feast of barbeque pork and chicken, grilled salmon belly and seafood, we decided to go for a walk.  As I stepped on the trail, I was captivated by a serene landscape. Streaks of light passed through the bare branches of birch and spruce trees and streamed down onto a carpet of lush green moss. In the distance, the snow-capped mountains melded into the horizon. Birds shrieked from the bare branches of trees; a bird called from a treetop like a nature ticking clock. Shortly after walking, we spotted a moose. I had a mixed feeling of excitement at seeing one of the shy creatures, and at the same time, I was afraid of the possibility of being attacked by it. We stopped occasionally to admire the crystal-clear water from a gurgling river.  My sister scooped up the water with her hands and pretended to drink.  And like an ethereal muse rising from the water, she tossed the water into the air.

The following day, I decided to up the ante and hike the Flattop Mountain, a popular hiking destination in Anchorage.  It is part of the Chugach State Park, located just east of Anchorage. I drove up the Glen Alps Trailhead to the summit parking lot. When we got to the parking lot, we found a ranger truck and one car parked.  I was surprised to see the parking lot almost empty.   I saw a couple of shirtless hikers descending from the mountain and heading towards the car.  Tedsky and I slowly walked up to a hiking trail. As I stood on the ridge overlooking Anchorage, I was amazed at the panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountain of Denali. My hike turned into a leisurely walk in quiet solitude. I could wax poetic about the experience but I wouldn't. Or a little, maybe.


Led forth in peace
The mountains opened up before me
The birds burst into song
The trees clapped their hands.

 Click the thumbnail to watch the video of the drive to Flattop.


Note:  Photo by Tedsky


Comments

  1. I agree with you Alice Odena! Flattop Mountain is the best place for hiking. I also visited this Mountain before mycoast bus| with my friends. Its greenery gives look is very dazzling. When we peak the mountain we enjoy the beautiful view of Bear Lake. it is a really interesting place to do hiking adventure.

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