Service
Trailhead Parking Passes
Trailhead parking passes for the Matanuska-Susitna (Mat-Su) Borough trails are available as either day passes, which grant access for a single day, or annual passes, which provide unlimited access throughout the year. Day passes are ideal for those looking to enjoy a specific hike, while the annual pass is more economical for frequent visitors. Purchasing either option supports the maintenance and preservation of the trails, allowing everyone to fully enjoy the area's natural beauty and enhancing the overall outdoor experience.
Trailheads Requiring Passes
Pioneer Ridge - Austin Helmers
Government Peak Recreation Area
West Butte Trailhead
Lazy Mountain Trailhead
Jim Creek Recreation Area
Crevasse Moraine Trailhead
Christiansen Lake Park
Ayrshire Trailhead
Big Lake Boat Launch Parking Lot
Talkeetna Downtown Park
Talkeetna Lakes Park Trailhead
Whigmi Trailhead
Pay Online
Choose Day or Annual Pass
When deciding between a day pass or an annual trailhead pass, consider how often you plan to access local trails. A day pass is ideal for occasional visits, providing access for one specific date, while an annual pass is more cost-effective for frequent visitors, offering unlimited access throughout the year. An annual pass also makes it easier to explore new trails without needing to purchase a pass each time. Remember that these passes only apply to Matsu Borough trails.
Pay Online
Please select one of the links below to complete your preferred pass purchase.
<a href="https://matsugov.us/pay/trailheadparking" >Day Pass</a> <a href="https://matsugov.us/pay/annualparking" >Annual Pass</a>
Receive the Pass
Once your request is approved, the trailhead pass will be mailed to the address you provided. Keep an eye on your mailbox, as delivery times may vary. If you do not receive the pass within the expected timeframe, please follow up with the designated department.
Apply the Pass to your Vehicle
After receiving the pass, affix it to your vehicle according to the instructions provided. Ensure it is displayed prominently, as required, to avoid any parking issues at the trailheads. Enjoy your time exploring the trails
Pay at Trailheads
Locate the kiosk
Upon arriving at the trailhead, find the parking pass kiosk, typically located near the entrance or parking area. Look for clear signage indicating the kiosk’s location.
Select Your Pass Type
Approach the kiosk and choose the type of parking pass you need: day pass or annual pass. If you’re purchasing a day pass, select the duration of your visit as prompted.
Process Payment
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete your payment. You may need to insert cash or use a credit/debit card, depending on the kiosk's payment options. Ensure you receive a confirmation or receipt of your transaction.
Print Your Pass
After payment, the kiosk will print your parking pass. Carefully remove it from the printer and check that all information is correct, including the date and vehicle details.
Display Your Pass
Place the printed parking pass on the dashboard of your vehicle, ensuring it is clearly visible through the windshield. This will allow trailhead staff to verify your pass during their rounds.
Enjoy Your Hike
With your pass displayed, you’re all set to explore the trails. Enjoy your outdoor adventure while adhering to any posted trail rules and regulations.
Employee Passes
Submit Request
If you are an employee of the Matsu Borough, you are likely eligible for a free trailhead parking pass. Complete the designated form to request your free trailhead pass. Ensure that you include all necessary information, such as your name, employee ID, workplace, and preferred contact method.
Receive the Pass
Once your request is approved, the trailhead pass will be delivered to your work area. Make sure to check with your supervisor or the designated department if you have not received it within the expected timeframe.
Apply the Pass to Your Vehicle
After receiving the pass, affix it to your vehicle according to the instructions provided. Ensure it is displayed prominently, as required, to avoid any parking issues at the trailheads. Enjoy your time exploring the trails!
Parks
Jim Creek Campground
Jim Creek Campground, located in the scenic Butte area of the Matanuska Valley, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Christiansen Lake Park
Christiansen Lake Park is a small day-use park located on the west side of Christiansen Lake, east of the community of Talkeetna.
Talkeetna River Park
Talkeetna River Park is a picturesque spot located at the confluence of the Susitna, Chulitna, and Talkeetna rivers. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular place for leisurely strolls.
Sunshine Creek Campground
A popular fishing spot at Sunshine Creek near Talkeetna.
Matanuska River Park
87 spaces for tents or RV's, central comfort station featuring flush toilets and hot showers, RV dump station, picnic tables, grills, pavilions, a playground, a sand volleyball court, trails and river access, observation deck, parking areas, campfire area
Trails
Butte Trail
The Butte is the most popular hiking trail in the Mat-Su Borough. The first mile is a gravel trail that winds through thick forest. Stairs take you nearly above treeline via switchbacks. A silty path and more stairs lead you to the igneous rock summit.
Matanuska Peak Trail
The trail passes through forest to alpine to talus field to pinnacle. The view from Matanuska Peak is spectacular!
Matanuska River Park Trails
Matanuska River Park has approximately 1.6 miles of trails, which form a loop from the parking areas to the river. The trails connect the campground, day use area, and athletic fields to the riverside.
Government Peak Rec Area
The Government Peak Recreation Area (GPRA) offers summer and winter recreation for skiiers, hikers, bikers, and more.
Talkeetna Lakes Trails
Summer and winter recreation opportunities in Talkeetna Lakes Park include skate and classic skiing, hiking, biking, jogging, and fishing access.
Crevasse Moraine Trail System
Crevasse-Moraine’s approximately 6.7 miles of trails wind through glacial ridges and depressions, offering year-round recreation across forested loops, open terrain, and snowy slopes.
Pioneer Ridge Austin Helmers Trail
This trail travels from a forested area to above tree-line where it traverses the northeast slope of Pioneer Peak.
Morgan Horse Trail
The Morgan Horse Trail is an all-season trail running between the Lazy Mountain Recreation Area and Maud Road.
Lazy Mountain Recreation Area
Two trail options: the Lazy Mountain Trail is 3,000 feet in less than two miles. The longer, less steep, Lazy Moose Trail, zigzags up the hill for three miles. Lazy Moose reconnects with Lazy Mountain Trail above the first picnic table.