Lazy Mountain - Winter Hiking

Jan 12

Location: Palmer, Alaska - the Lazy Mountain trailhead is about 15 minutes away from downtown Palmer

Overview: This page offers an overview of what to expect when hiking the trail (from the steep side) during the winter, typically November through April each year.

Elevation gain: About 3,000’ of gain between trailhead and summit.
Mileage:
* Total distance from trailhead to summit is about 2 miles
* Total distance roundtrip is about 4 miles (going up and down the steep side of the mountain). During the summer the option to hike down the Lazy Moose trail is a great break for the knees. During the winter months the Lazy Moose trail can be tricky to navigate and is often unpacked and/or windblown.
Terrain: During the winter months the steep side of Lazy Mountain is usually well-packed. Locals frequently climb in the winter time, and during late winter there is an annual mountain race - The Crazy Lazy.
Although packed the terrain is very steep, particularly on the lower mountain. Ice cleats and trekking poles are recommended. It is not uncommon to slide marks where hikers have opted for butt-slides on the descent.
Parking: This is a Mat-Su Borough maintained trail and parking area. The paved lot has ample parking space. A day parking pass can be purchased using electronic payment on-site. Cash payment is not available at this kiosk and parking passes are enforced by the borough.

Go with a local guide

Hike description:

The first half of the hike is the steepest part of the climb. Hikers can expect to climb over 1,700’ in about a mile before reaching the first false summit and picnic table (invisible during heavy snow years). From here the trail continues onward at a lesser grade and above the trees.
Multiple false summits occur above tree line, and the trail can be particular windy above the first picnic table. At the final false summit the true peak (approximately 2,900’). From this vantage the peak looks straightforward, but there is a short and narrow ridge that provides access to the summit.

Lazy is easily visible from the downtown area, sitting prominently to the northwest of Matanuska Peak. From afar, the mountain looks like a gentle climb, but don’t let the name fool you. This hike is not for the faint of heart.

Guide notes:

This is an out and back trail that is challenging for most. The first picnic table is a great turnaround option for those not feeling up for a summit climb. Hiking to this point is still a challenge with rewarding views. From the picnic table hikers can catch views of the Knik Glacier, Pioneer Peak, the Butte and the nearby Matanuska Peak are still rewarding.
Immediately after beginning up the trail hikers will signage for Lazy Moose vs. Lazy Mountain. Both trails connect at the first picnic table (about 1,700’) but during the winter months the Lazy Moose trail is not generally high trafficked enough to maintain a packed route to the table. For winter hiking - our recommendation is to come up and down the steep side. For summer hiking - our recommendation is to go up the steep side and come down the Lazy Moose side.
Ice cleats, trekking poles, headlamps, and emergency gear are a must for winter travelers.