Mount Ripinsky & Tukgahgo Trails

Breath-taking views of Lynn Canal await you as you make your way to
the north peak at 3920 feet.

How do I find the trailhead?

There are three trailheads to take you up the mountain.                                                                          
1. Closest to town is a trailhead that begins at the end of Skyline Road,
which is located off Young Road/Second Avenue. There’s a small
area for parking on the right hand side of the road. A dirt path leads
to the trailhead on your left.                                                                                                               
2. Another trailhead is located at the end of Piedad Road about
1.5 miles on the Haines Highway north of town. This is the most
direct trail, which means few switchbacks and a challenging vertical
climb. Many locals enjoy snowshoeing this trail in winter.                                                          
3. Another approach is located at 7-mile Haines Highway or what
locals refer to as the 7-mile Saddle trailhead. The parking lot is near
the trail marker. The trail begins with a boardwalk which takes you
across the muskeg then climbs by a series of switchbacks with
lodgepole pines and thickets of local flora and blueberry bushes
eventually opening into brush and mountain hemlock at about
2000 feet. Good water is avilable in the forest and there is a tiny
seasonal spring just before you reach the 7-mile saddle. The saddle is
a great place to camp. From here, the climb is steep to the summit
of Peak 3920 where you’ll experience stunning views. Most people
allow 4 to 5 hours to reach this point. The ridge running east and
connects with Ripinsky and drops to about 2800 feet. In early
summer, snowmelt water may still be found along the ridge. In bad
weather and spring snows, following the trail onto the north peak
of Ripinsky can be tricky. It winds onto the northwest side of the
summit and can also be hard to locate from the peak going west.
This is where a map and compass come in handy. This hike is about
10 miles from the 7-mile trailhead to Main Street and takes in a
traverse of Peak 3920 and Mt. Ripinksy. If you plan to do the entire
trail, allow 8 to 10 hours.

How challenging is the trail?

Very challenging! For experienced hikers, getting to the summit takes about 2 to 5
hours. Families usual plan to make it an all-day adventure. If you’re worried about
your knees, hiking poles are recommended. Don’t forget to check the weather
forecast and plan. The trail is has tree roots and can get muddy. Bring proper gear,
including a sturdy pair of hiking boots and consider taking more than one day to hike
the trail.