Towering peaks, turquoise lakes, and deep forests define the wilderness around Moose Pass, a hidden gem tucked into the heart of the Chugach National Forest. Just north of Seward, this area is home to scenic and storied hiking trails, from gentle strolls along historic routes to challenging climbs with sweeping alpine views. With Moose Pass Adventures, you’ll explore this stunning backcountry alongside experienced local guides who know the land, the legends, and the safest ways to travel through bear country. Whether you're road tripping the Kenai or arriving by cruise ship, you can even combine a guided hike with a private cruise transfer between Seward and Anchorage.
Vagt Lake Trail
Looking for a peaceful walk in the woods that still delivers on views and history? This is a relaxed 2.5-hour outing along a stretch of the historic Iditarod Trail. This 3.2-mile route is perfect for beginners and families (ages 5+), offering a gentle trail through lush spruce forest, past sparkling creeks, and along the shores of Vagt Lake, framed by the peaks of the Kenai Mountains. Along the way, your guide shares stories of early gold miners and Indigenous history, and helps you spot local wildlife—from moose tracks to soaring bald eagles. Feel confident hiking with a guide, enjoy mid-hike snacks, warm drinks, and the kind of trailside hospitality that turns a simple walk into a memorable Alaska experience.
Carter & Crescent Lake Trails
If you're ready to venture deeper into the wild, the Path of the Glaciers is a full-day adventure into Alaska’s alpine heart. This moderate, 6.6-mile round-trip hike gains 1,200 feet of elevation as you follow your guide from dense spruce forest to high alpine meadows. The climb starts strong, with an 800-foot ascent in the first mile, but the payoff is worth it—Carter Lake appears like a hidden jewel below craggy ridgelines, a perfect spot to rest and refuel. From there, continue on toward Crescent Lake, a glacial basin surrounded by dramatic peaks, wildflowers, and, if you're lucky, sightings of ptarmigan or mountain goats. Small group sizes keep things personal, and your guide shares geology, ecology, and local lore along the way. Tour includes snacks, filtered alpine water, and a wilderness experience that’s as informative as it is inspiring. Recommended for ages 10+.
Kayak & Hike Combo Tours
On the full day Grant Lake Guided Hike & Kayak Adventure, you’ll paddle around 2 lakes and enjoy a guided hike. Your small group will learn about Alaska’s colorful small-town past as you kayak the shores of glacial Trail Lake. Then get ready for a moderate hike along the iconic Iditarod National Historic Trail. You’ll learn about native plants like wild blueberries and cranberries as you pass through a spruce forest and look for wildlife. Hike over a ridge and get a spectacular view of Grant Lake, which shimmers a turquoise blue. Enjoy a trailside lunch then launch your kayak into Grant Lake for a paddle to hidden waterfalls before the return hike.
Short on time? Opt for the afternoon Kayak & Hike Express to Grant Lake. This abbreviated trip packs in a paddle across glacial Trail Lake, a hike along the Iditarod National Historic Trail, and time to have a tasty snack and soak in the views of pristine Grant Lake.
Cruise Transfer Adventures
If you're arriving or departing Alaska by cruise, Moose Pass Adventures offers private, comfortable, and adventure-filled transfers to get you between Seward and Anchorage. Travel in a spacious 15-passenger van (for up to 12 guests), with plenty of room to relax and take in the scenery. The Active Hike Transfer is a great option for those who want to stretch their legs and explore the landscape along the way. Your guide will tailor the experience to your group—choosing from a range of trails through the Chugach National Forest or Chugach State Park, from gentle forest walks to more ambitious alpine climbs. You can opt for two shorter hikes or one longer one, depending on your interests and energy level. Prefer a more straightforward ride? The Scenic Transfer offers a direct 3-hour trip with sweeping views of mountains and coastline. Or take it slow with the Sightseeing Tour, a full-day adventure featuring wildlife viewing, cultural stops, and some of the most iconic sights between Seward and Anchorage.
Overnight Experiences
Embrace the wild beauty of Alaska with two unforgettable overnight experiences that combine glacial kayaking, rustic comfort, and the serenity of the backcountry. The Overnight Wilderness Adventure, Kayak Tour & Private Yurt Stay is a guided, private tour for 2 to 8 guests that begins with a paddle across glacier-fed Trail Lake, followed by a hike to stunning Grant Lake. Your destination: a handmade, Mongolian-style yurt nestled in the wilderness. Enjoy a frontier-style BBQ dinner with s’mores by the fire, then settle in for a peaceful night. In the morning, wake to birdsong and a warm breakfast before kayaking and hiking back. For a longer retreat, the Glamping in Wild Alaska – Yurt Stay & Glacial Lake Kayak Tour offers a 3-day escape with two nights at the same secluded Grant Lake yurt.
About Moose Pass Adventures
After guiding tours across North America, Owners JD and Jen settled in the Chugach Mountains. They’re passionate about guiding, and about sharing the area they call home. What started as a simple kayak rental operation grew into an adventure company offering guided excursions and a remote backcountry yurt camp so they can share this slice of Alaska with visitors.
