Winner Creek Trail

At mile 90, Seward Highway, turn North onto Alyeska Highway.  After 3 miles, turn left on Arlberg Road.  Follow Arlberg for about 1 mile to the Alyeska Prince Hotel.  The trail begins to the right of the tram ticket office.  Follow the gravel path up then to the left and you'll see the National Forest sign at the trailhead.

The trail winds through tall spruce and hemlock trees with ferns and mosses covering the forest floor for about 1 mile to a trail intersection.  The left trail takes you to the Gorge.  Winner Creek flows through a small cleft in the rocks, making a picturesque series of waterfalls.  To the right, the trail continues for 2 miles.  The trail passes near an old miners cabin.  Elevation gain is minimal and wet sections are covered with boardwalks.  Watch for bear and moose along the trail. 

The Upper Winner Creek trail continues through meadows and forests of alder, willow, cottonwood to the headwaters of Winner Creek.  The upper portion of the trail steepens considerably and it may be necessary to wade the creek to avoid brush.  Several stream crossing are required and the trail becomes very difficult to follow.

Winter travel is not recommended in the Upper Winner Creek area due to avalanche dangers.  See avalanche report.