Given the incredible natural beauty of Alaska and the wide range of wilderness areas in the state, it should come as no surprise that Alaska has a number of well organized and large hiking clubs. The clubs range from purely athletic organizations to social groups and associations with more ambitious educational or advocacy goals, but every hiker in Alaska should be able to find the right fit for his or her outdoor interests among the area's many options.
Statewide Organizations
While most hiking clubs in Alaska, considering the state's large size, organize their activities in a specific area of the state in order to better coordinate members and outings, several clubs offer activities and membership to interested hikers across the state. These clubs, like the Alaskan Alpine Club, tend to be less organized socially, but can provide valuable information and group coordination in areas where isolation and the threat of emergencies makes hiking in groups much safer.
Local Area Organizations
Local area organizations, such as the Alaska Outdoors Club in Anchorage, focus on short trips and longer expeditions in a particular area of the state. Although the clubs' focus limits members to a specific area, the clubs often make up for geographic limitations with better local coordination and more social and educational events among members. For beginning hikers and new arrivals to the area, these clubs can be a great way of getting acquainted with local hikers and trails.
Educational and Advocacy Groups
A number of hiking clubs in Alaska also include educational and advocacy components in their activities. The Mountaineering Club of Alaska maintains a small library of relevant literature, has frequent presentations from hikers and naturalists, and actively participates in conservation and stewardship efforts along the state's hiking trails. For hikers looking not only for companionship on the trail, but a group of like-minded hikers to interact with when not hiking, these groups can be a good way to get to know the community.
Social Groups
For those hikers who not only enjoy hiking, but even talking about hiking, a number of Alaskan hiking clubs offer frequent meetings, presentation and potlucks to get to know club members and maybe even plan an expedition together. As most Alaskan hiking clubs include members interested in other outdoor activities, such as climbing, rafting or skiing, these clubs can be a good way to form a more cohesive community of outdoor enthusiasts, meet new friends and maybe even discover a few new favorite outdoor activities.
Groups Open to Travelers and Tourists
Many Alaskan hiking clubs welcome interested members even if they are only in the state for a short visit. In most cases, non-members participating in a club event are asked to make a small contribution to the club in order to take part in a hike, but, once on the trail, you should discover that Alaskan hikers are extremely welcoming. Clubs like the Fairbanks Area Hiking Club even publish lists of upcoming hikes and events, inviting non-members to get in touch and join the group.
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