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Palmer Rail Trail
4.6 ★★★★★ 47 Google reviews · Running trail in Palmer, Alaska · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
We have not been able to confirm the surface, distance or shape of Palmer Rail Trail yet from its own listing, the park's website or runner reviews — so those cells stay blank rather than guess. What is below comes straight from the listing and from reviewers' own words. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Open hiking trail featuring views of the Matanuska River, Lazy Mountain, and wildlife.
What runners say about Palmer Rail Trail
“Couple treacherous spots and stopped before the 3rd one but even still beautiful walk.”
“Also called pigs leap it is a easy trail and an out and back style walk.”
Great walking trail. Nice maintained trail for approx 1.5 miles. Then trail has been washed out but still passable with a little agility. We hiked out 2 miles and the trail was wonderful and easy to follow.
Not quite as dramatic as other parts of Alaska but it's a good low key locals hike along the Matanuska River. Sometimes its well above the river offering fantastic views of the braided river below. Along the way there are several old rails cars pushed over the edge when the rail line was abandoned.
We have done this entire trail several times now; it is our favorite trail in Alaska hands down. There is a washout part of the way in but don't let it slow you down, just keep going. I wish someone would fix it though. Either way, it's the best trail around. 6.4 miles to 7.1 miles depending on where you start or end.
There was not much to this hike - most straight walking path but my kids and I did go down the side of the mountain at the beginning and there are all the vehicles that were down the side of yhe mountain. It made the trail very interesting
Trail conditions & character
“It is a little buggy and there are a few spots where it has washed out, but gives amazing views of Lazy Mountain and the Matanuska River.”
“Parking was easy- literally a sign stating "trailhead parking" it just isn't immediately visible when you drive up.”
“Beautiful lawn strip for dog walking that provides dogipot bags and bins.”
Plan your run at Palmer Rail Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitealaska.org
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Running trails near Palmer
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Lazy Mountain Trail Head
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Crevasse-Moraine Trailhead
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Community park with hiking trails and paths popular for biking, skiing, and other outdoor activities.
West Butte Trail
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Hiking area featuring a trail and 500-plus steps that lead to panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Wasilla Creek Boardwalk Trail
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Trail through the woods and marsh ending at a nice platform that overlooks mountains.