The mountains around Nome lure hikers out of town for easy and invigorating day hikes. Anvil Mountain and Newton Peak are closest to Nome, with King Mountain peeking through them just about 7.5 miles from town.
A hike to the top of King Mountain has you climbing about 900 feet in a mile and a half. It’s fairly easy going, but be aware of surrounding cliffs at top as you take in incredible views of the Kigluaik Mountains and the Bering Sea in the distance.
King Mountain is about 20 minutes from downtown Nome. Drive north 2.5 miles on the Nome-Teller Road and then turn right onto Dexter Bypass Road. You’ll pass Anvil Mountain on the left, Newton Peak on the right just ahead is King Mountain. Turn right on Bessie Road and drive another 1.4 miles to Beam Road, where you’ll turn left and go over Dexter Creek. There’s no specific trailhead. Just park anywhere along the road and determine your own route. Staying out of brushy areas will help you avoid surprising bear or muskoxen.
