Today, all that has changed. Now Alaska has the largest state park system in America with one-third of the nation's state park lands. These include more than 120 parks, historic and recreation sites that are visited by millions every year. One place many residents turn to is Flattop Mountain. It is the most recognizable peak in the group and the easiest to hike.
Thousands visit during summer months to play and hike.
Turnagain Arm Trail follows the coastline from Potter Marsh to Windy Corner for more than nine miles. Prospect Heights also is the starting point for several trails, as is Eklutna Lake. There is much more to this park than climbing mountains. There are three campgrounds at Bird Creek, Eklutna and Eagle River, plus picnic areas and shelters at several locations. Chugach State Park headquarters are in the Potter Section House, Mile 115 of the Seward Highway just outside of Anchorage.