Gilahina Trestle & Hiking Trail

Overview

This is a quick, easy stop along McCarthy Road centered on the massive, photogenic Gilahina railroad trestle—roughly 880 feet long and 80–90 feet tall. Built in just eight days in the winter of 1910, it once carried the Copper River & Northwestern Railway serving the Kennecott mines. Today, it’s a quiet pullout with interpretive signs, a vault toilet, and a short trail that lets you stretch your legs along the river.

Route and Distance

From the wayside near about Mile 28 of McCarthy Road, look for the informal footpath leading downriver. The trail is approximately 0.5 miles one way; most visitors do it as an out-and-back for about 1.0 mile total. Expect minimal elevation change and limited trail signage—turn around whenever you’re ready.

What You’ll See

The star is the trestle itself, a lattice of weathered timbers that’s a dream subject for photos from the pullout and the riverbank. The Gilahina River runs below, fed by mountain springs; the water is clear and very cold (around 38–40°F). Read the panels to appreciate the engineering feat and the boomtown railroad history that put this structure here.

Know Before You Go

This is an easy stroll, but it’s a remote roadside stop. McCarthy Road is a 60-mile gravel drive with potholes, washboard, and occasional shallow stream crossings—plan extra time and drive carefully. Facilities here are basic: a small dirt/gravel parking area, an NPS outhouse, and interpretive signs. Do not climb on the trestle; it’s in disrepair. River rocks can be slick, and if you collect water, treat it.

Best Time to Hike

Anytime you’re passing by on the McCarthy Road drive. Morning and late-day light are best for photos, and you’ll avoid any mid-day trickle of visitors. This is a quick stop, so even a brief weather window is enough.

If You Want a Bigger Day

This is a leg-stretcher, not a destination hike. For longer adventures once you reach the Kennecott/McCarthy area, consider the Root Glacier Trail (moderate, ~4.4 miles), Bonanza Mine (steep, ~6 miles), the Wagon Road (~4 miles), Stairway Icefall/Erie Lake (~7 miles), or Copper Lake (~12 miles).