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Mt. POW-MIA

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Mt. MIA-POW
Last Updated: June 30, 2007

Difficulty

Somewhat Difficult - This trail has a lot of elevation gain in short periods of time. There is not much of a formal trail beyond approximately half mile, just survey tape. Once on the ridge the survey tape markers are few and far in between.

Connects 
With

None

Miles One 
Way

2

Miles from
Anchorage

30

General Vicinity

Chugach State Park

Season

April through October

Description

Mount POW/MIA is a mountain that was dedicated in November of 1999 to any military personnel that have ever been determined as a Prisoner of War or been Missing In Action. This mountain can easily be seen from the Matanuska-Susitna Veterans Memorial. There is a plaque for the mountain there as well. It is the largest and tallest living military monument. For more about the history of the mountain visit: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_POW/MIA

This hike is quite unknown to the general public and can be difficult. The trail starts just after mile 5 on Eklutna Lake Road. Parking is at the Eklutna Lake or at pull-offs along the road. Please do not park in driveways unless permission is granted. To be more specific, electrical pole 85. There is survey tape and somewhat of a rough trail for about the first half mile. The trail disappears into a field and is continued in a draw in the far end of the field. After the majority of the elevation gain to the ridge line, the ridge is followed to the summit of the mountain. At the summit there is a POW /MIA flag, register, and plaque dedicated to James Wesley Widdis, Jr. Northwest of the summit, about 100 feet, if there is little or no snow, is a picnic table for picnicking pleasure.

Important Information

Bring any water needed, there is NO water along the trail. 

Be prepared for cold weather. The wind is fierce and VERY cold. Weather can change quickly. 

Sheep are common, be careful.

Etc.

If you park at Eklutna Lake you will need to pay the standard Chugach Park fee.

Webmaster note: the fee is $5 (bring exact amount). The price for an annual parking pass is $40.  You can purchase a  pass at the Federal Building at 4th and F or the Atwood Building on 7th and E, 12th Floor. 
 

Mile Marker Boder

©Alaska Hike Search
-A Guide to Hiking in the Anchorage Area
By Chugachman

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