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Mount Marathon Bowl

5.0•4 reviews
Couple Hiking Mount Marathon Bowl
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Trip Highlights

Earn Views of Resurrection Bay and Seward
Ascend from Spruce and Hemlock Forests to Alpine Ridges
Take a Break in a Wildflower-Filled Mountain Cirque

Description

Embark on a thrilling journey to the Mount Marathon Bowl, where the sense of perspective and accomplishment is unmatched. This strenuous yet rewarding hike takes you through lush Hemlock-Spruce forests, across vibrant meadows, and up to the alpine amphitheater of the Mount Marathon Bowl. Experience the magic of breathtaking views of Resurrection Bay and the seaside town of Seward!

Itinerary

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From our shop, we start out on foot; the trailhead is just blocks away from our location. What makes this hike special is leaving the curated veneer of civilization behind and, step by step, making our way into truly wild Alaska. We’ll hike up the pyramid-shaped mountain, the bottom of which is cloaked in Hemlock-Spruce forests.
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As you traverse the treeline, “The Bench” offers a respite from the climb, and you will be able to glimpse Resurrection Bay far below. Gain a new sense of perspective and accomplishment as you push upwards to the Mount Marathon Bowl, offering a vantage point high above the seaside town of Seward, Alaska.
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The patchwork of forest dotted with vibrant meadows will beckon us to continue ascending to an alpine amphitheater ringed with jagged peaks. Like the portal to another time and place, the magic of the Bowl changes from season to season and day to day. Maybe it’s the sparkle of snow and ice, a brilliant rainbow of wildflowers, the song of the rushing creek, or the kiss of fog on a calm morning. We’ll find a perch for a snack, rest, and a great vantage point to talk about the changes Alaska is experiencing, from sea to summit.

Tour info

Duration
5 to 6 hours
Group Size
At least 2 people
Price starts at
$125
Languages
English
Pickup Point
328 3rd Ave
Open in Google Maps→

Why take this tour?

Experience a local gem of Seward's hiking scene, the hike to the Mount Marathon Bowl. Travel from the bustling sidewalks of the seaside town of Seward, up through towering Spruce-Hemlock forest, and emerge in a wildflower-strewn Alpine cirque.


This hike offers not only a physical challenge but also a chance to immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of Alaska. With breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment, this is an adventure you won't want to miss. Join us for an unforgettable journey where you'll learn about the unique ecology and history of the area, alongside a local guide.


Note: Although Mount Marathon is known for the location of the Mount Marathon Race, considered by Outside Magazine as ‘the toughest 5k in the world,’ we will not be ascending and descending on the Race Trail, and instead taking a less steep and more stable route.

Included

  • Professional Guide
  • Snacks & Hot Drinks
  • Hiking poles (if desired)
  • Day hiking pack (if needed)
  • Lunch

Excluded

  • Transportation to our downtown Seward location (328 Third Ave)
  • Gratuity

Frequently asked questions

Positive attitude, day hiking pack (can be provided if needed), rain jacket & rain pants (can be provided if needed), warm synthetic layers, warm wool socks, hiking boots or sneakers, refillable water bottle, camera. We will provide a detailed packing list at the time of booking!
Cancelations more than 30 days prior to scheduled trip, will receive a full refund, minus a $10 per person booking fee. Cancelations 15-30 days prior to scheduled trip, will be charged 20% of the total invoice. Cancelations 8-14 days prior to scheduled trip, will be charged 50% of the total invoice. Cancelations within 7 days of scheduled trip, will be charged 100% of invoice.

Things to know

Activity Level

This hike is strenuous and suitable for ages 9 and up.

Hike Length

The hike is 3.5 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain of 1,500 feet. The trail starts steep but wide and at times can be uneven, slippery, and involve some loose footing.

Weather Considerations

Dress in layers and always bring rain gear; we are located at the northern tip of the world's largest temperate rainforest. Be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Recent Reviews

4 Verified reviews
Melissa B
Tripadvisor

Melissa B

September 2, 2024

I went on the Mount Marathon hike with my husband, brother, and dad in mid-August. Our guide Eric was fantastic! The hike itself provided great views. The fog crept in within minutes of us making it to the bowl, so our view did not last long, but it was pretty cool to see the tra…

Eva C
Google Reviews

Eva C

December 20, 2023

In early August, we visited Seward and went on the Marathon Bowl Hike with Seward Wilderness Collective. Chris met us at the office and checked on all our gear to make sure we were prepared for the hike. He also gave us our lunches and snacks to carry. Our group of 4 adults and 2…

Eva C
Tripadvisor

Eva C

December 11, 2023

In early August, we visited Seward and went on the Marathon Bowl Hike with Seward Wilderness Collective. Chris met us at the office and checked on all our gear to make sure we were prepared for the hike. He also gave us our lunches and snacks to carry. Our group of 4 adults and 2…

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From
$125
5.0
4 Verified reviews

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