Scout Ridge Loop at Palmer Hayflats State Game Refuge

Knik-Fairview, Alaska, 99654

Easy

All Year

1.2Miles

Walking

The Scout Ridge Loop is a lovely 1.2 mile stroll overlooking the Palmer Hayflats State Game Refuge. There is a scenic pavilion with benches and interpretive signs part way through the trail where one can stop and appreciate the view. A network of unmapped social trails lead to a creek and down to the Cottonwood Creek Wetlands.

The beginning of the GPS track mapped here is the road where one drives in to the trail. There is a parking area on the left where the trail begins.

Directions: From the Glenn Highway Interchange, stay on the Parks Highway for 6 miles. Turn left onto E. Palmer-Wasilla Hwy. Drive 1.3 miles and turn left on S Knik Goose Bay Rd. Drive 3.6 miles and turn left onto W Fairview Loop. Drive 1.8 miles and then continue straight onto Hayfield Rd. Drive 1.3 miles and turn left. Trailhead parking is on the left at the start of the trail.

Parking: No parking fee, but the lot is small and can fill up quickly on a nice summer afternoon.