Distance: 2.5 miles one way
Elevation gain: 3,000 feet
Special features: close to Palmer, views, picnic tables, varied terrain, woods, tundra, a little scramble at the top.
Location: 4 miles east of Palmer down Left on Clark-Wolverine Road for 0.7 miles. Take a right on Huntley Road at the T-junction. Go to the end of the road to Lazy Mountain Recreation Area. Bear right at the end of the road to end at the parking lot. *Shares trailhead for Lazy Moose and Morgan Horse Trail.
Difficulty: Strenuous for the first half and moderate at the top.
Trail use: Often used all year long but use Kathoolas or other Microspikes in the winter. Fun Hike year round.
Fees: Mat-Su Borough Trail parking pass $40 per year or $5 per car
Maps: USGS Anchorage C-6 (SE)
Kid Friendly: The mountain goat type, but the normal kid can find this a challenge.
Out of all the wonderful hikes, Lazy Mountain grabs the calfs and make the newbie hiker cringe. It is a challenge for the fit. However, if you pace yourself it is enjoyable even for the newer hiker.
