Devil's Pass 
Trail
 
USGS Map Seward C7, C8
Difficulty More difficult
Public Use Moderate
Length (one Way) 10 miles
Trip Time (one way) 5-6 hours
Condition good
Recommended Season June-October
Elevation Gain 1,400 feet
 

Trail Access
Trailhead is on west side of Seward Highway, Mile 39. Trail is closed to saddle/packstock from April 1 - June 30 and motorized vehicles from Feb 16 - Nov 30.

Trail Grade/Condition
First four miles have steep, uphill grades, slight decline after pass.  Well maintained though may be wet/muddy in places.  Snow along trail and at Devil's Pass may persist into early summer.

Recreational Opportunities
Connects with Resurrection Pass North/South trails for extended trip.  Two-day trip with camping at Beaver Pond tent site (2 miles from trailhead) or in Devil's Pass cabin (by reservation only).  Trail provides access to seldom traveled alpine valleys branching from the main route. Cross-country hiking in these valleys is at or above treeline for easy travel.

Varied scenery includes mountains, forests, streams, lakes, and alpine areas. Spruce/birch forests at lower elevations grading into tundra with wildflowers.  Along trail, reddish-gray, dead trees killed by spruce bark beetle.  These trees are a major fire hazard. Be careful with fire.

Wildlife includes moose, caribou, wolves, wolverine, ptarmigan, grouse and marmot. Hunting for these species is permitted in designated seasons. Fishing for Dolly Varden in Devil's Pass Lake.  Review Alaska Department of Fish and Game hunting and fishing regulations.

Special Considerations
Winter travel is unsafe and not recommended due to potential avalanche hazard beyond Mile 3. Winter storms and whiteouts are frequent above treeline.  Be prepared for rapid weather changes.  Use caution with bear and moose.  Boil surface water for 5 minutes before drinking.  Remember to pack out your trash.  You can contact a U.S. Forest Service office to receive more detailed information on safety precautions.

Cabin Reservations
Occupancy of Forest Service cabins is by permit only($25 per night per party plus $8.25 reservation fee per cabin).  Reservations may be made up to 180 days in advance by calling 1-800-280-2267 or visiting any Chugach National Forest office or Anchorage Alaska Public Lands Information Center.

 

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