The newly improved high-water and bedrock trail reroute near Echo Bend on the historic Iditarod/Crow Pass Trail provides a drier, higher route to The Perch from the Eagle River Nature Center.
Trail Description
- Distance: About 9 miles round-trip to The Perch and back.
- Terrain: The newer bedrock reroute climbs higher onto solid rock past Echo Bend, bypassing the old low-lying section that frequently eroded or flooded into the silty Eagle River.
- Scenery: Open breath-taking, panoramic views of the upper Eagle River valley and surrounding alpine ridges.
Directions & Route
- Drive to the Trailhead: From Eagle River, take Eagle River Road roughly 12 miles to its end at the Eagle River Nature Center parking lot. There is a $5 daily vehicle parking fee (free for Nature Center members; credit card or exact cash accepted.)
- Start the Hike: Begin on the main Crow Pass Trail / historic Iditarod National Historic Trail heading out past the main log cabin structure (Eagle River Nature Center,)
- Reach Echo Bend: Follow the well-maintained trail as it meanders through the woods and approaches the river at Echo Bend (around mile 3).
- Take the High Reroute: Continue about a half-mile past Echo Bend where the newer high-elevation trail climbs onto solid bedrock to bypass erosion zones. (Turn left at the trail sign to access the rerouted high trail.)
- Arrive at The Perch: Follow the bedrock trail to The Perch, a distinct rocky knob overlooking the valley at roughly 4.5 miles from the trailhead.
More details on how to get to The Perch in this post-
New re-routed high trail in blue. Red is older trail that follows the river, & is eroding in some spots.