Marin Ridge

Date Hiked: 8 May 2024

Distance: 3.76 miles

Elevation: 1, 830 ft

Difficulty: Moderate – Hard

Features: Dramatic cliffs, different mountains, beautiful ground growth, ridge walk

Description: Marin Ridge was an absolutely breathtaking hike. We did it in early May, where there was still a foot or so of snow in some places on the trail. The ground was starting to come alive, green and reds were beginning to emerge from the brown ground cover exposed after the snowmelt. The hike was beautiful; there are so many different mountains to see. Marin Ridge offers a very unique vantage point, where you gain a significant elevation in an area without many hikes, revealing a whole different sets mountain ranges from the usual hiking views. The dramatic cliffs were thrilling to look over, and the wide and flat ridgeline felt wide open and beautiful.

To get to the trail, use a parking pull off approximately 4.2 miles after the T intersection/passing Old’s River Inn. The trailhead is about 100ft past this point on the left. The trail starts out difficult, with partially muddy, steep and consistent incline of about 800-1,000ft. But after reaching the ridge, the trail turns into a gentle-moderate incline. This eventually leads to a peak. Along the ridge are different boulders and cliffs. As you walk along, you will see different views of Chiniak Bay and Pasagshak Bay, along with dramatic ravines and mountains. In May all the inland mountains were still snowcapped and beautiful. We ended our hike at the peak which rose to about 1500ft in elevation. Apparently, there is a way to turn North and connect to another peak farther out. The report of that is linked here. We attempted to do that, but the path either ended in cliffs or too much snow.

Overall, magical hike with dramatic landscapes that include breathtaking cliffs, ravines, and neighboring mountains. I would very highly suggest making the drive out to this hike to see the sights and such a unique point of view of Kodiak.