Mount Marathon Bowl

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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Start at the Shop

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.

Climb Above Town

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.

Reach the Alpine Bowl

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

Price starts at

$125

Languages

English

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

What should I bring?

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!

What is the cancellation policy?

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.

4 Reviews Verified

Melissa B

2nd September 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 t...

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 transformation and watch how quickly and densely it moved in. While the hike was beautiful and a good challenge, the best part was all the laughs and time spent with my family. Eric made it so enjoyable. He was entertaining and was really knowledgeable!

Eva C

20th December 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 hi...

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 kids (9 and 11) was ready to go! Chris was engaging and knowledgeable throughout the hike. Between talking with the kids about their interests and discussing climate-related books with the adults, Chris easily connected with us all. We hiked up the steep jeep trail and stopped for a delicious lunch next to a river. The rest of the hike was mostly uphill but between learning about the terrain, weather, and flora and fauna, it seemed we were up to the Marathon Bowl in no time. Once at the overlook, we stopped for some surprise hot chocolate, tea and delicious granola bars. We spent some time reflecting, writing haiku poems and just taking in the stunning views. Chris' knowledge of the land, the effect of the warming climate on the area, as well as the plants and animals we saw along the way greatly enhanced our hiking experience. When we finally made it back to the office, we had hiked a total of 6 miles and enjoyed every minute. If you want to both see incredible views as well as learn about how Alaska is faring with climate change, Seward Wilderness Collective is the company to hike with!

Eva C

11th December 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 hi...

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 kids (9 and 11) was ready to go! Chris was engaging and knowledgeable throughout the hike. Between talking with the kids about their interests and discussing climate-related books with the adults, Chris easily connected with us all. We hiked up the steep jeep trail and stopped for a delicious lunch next to a river. The rest of the hike was mostly uphill but between learning about the terrain, weather, and flora and fauna, it seemed we were up to the Marathon Bowl in no time. Once at the overlook, we stopped for some surprise hot chocolate, tea and delicious granola bars. We spent some time reflecting, writing haiku poems and just taking in the stunning views. Chris' knowledge of the land, the effect of the warming climate on the area, as well as the plants and animals we saw along the way greatly enhanced our hiking experience. When we finally made it back to the office, we had hiked a total of 6 miles and enjoyed every minute. If you want to both see incredible views as well as learn about how Alaska is faring with climate change, Seward Wilderness Collective is the company to hike with!

Ryan Clausen

20th November 2023

We went on the Mount Marathon Bowl hike and although I was apprehensive to climb (because I'm not exactly "in shape" for a hike), it wasn't too bad going up the few stretches of steep paths. There are...

We went on the Mount Marathon Bowl hike and although I was apprehensive to climb (because I'm not exactly "in shape" for a hike), it wasn't too bad going up the few stretches of steep paths. There are only about 5 steep parts at the beginning that take a few minutes each and then once you're past those, you get into the middle of the mountain, and it's smooth sailing at that point. It's very serene/peaceful, you feel one with nature, it's beautiful, it smells fresh, the air is crisp, you can even eat some of the vegetation (where applicable). There's a gorgeous lookout of the harbor at one point and you can simply take your time when needed, rest when you feel like, and just breathe in the earth. Our tour guide was very nice/knowledgeable and took precautions for any potential bears (which are going to be afraid of you anyway and will want to steer clear). We decided not to climb ALL the way up as we were getting ready to go on another excursion and wanted to take the trek back down a bit early, but I would do it again! :-)

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