Angel Rocks Trail

The Angel Rocks Trail leads to large granite outcroppings near the north boundary of the recreation area. It provides an easy day hike for most people, as the top of the rocks is less than two miles from the trailhead. The trailhead is located at milepost 48.9 Chena Hot Springs Road. Turn right just before the bridge and follow the trail from the parking lot upstream along the north fork of the Chena River. When you reach a fork in the trail, turn right. You will come to a small stream at about mile 1.25. The trail soon ascends sharply, leading to the first rocks. It then begins a moderately steep ascent, weaving through many granite rocks before emerging onto the upper rock ridge. At this point you have three choices: 1) return to the same trail; 2) continue down the steep trail through the rocks on the north ridge and down to the base of the hill look for the hiker sign and follow along the small slough to the fork mentioned above. Back to the trailhead; 3) continue on the Angel Rocks to Chena Hot Springs Trail, another 6.1 miles to an altitude of 2,800 feet for panoramic views of the Alaska Range, Chena Dome, Far Mountain, and the Butte. The granite outcrops (tors) were formed millions of years ago when molten rock pushed upward and cooled before reaching the earth's surface. The surrounding earth has slowly eroded, exposing the harder rock pinnacles.