 | | This loop trail provides easy access to alpine tundra and the Tors--towering granite rock formations. The trail begins at the Tors Trail Campground parking area, near mile 39 Chena Hot Springs Road. Follow the gravel path past the bulletin board to a walkway on the bridge, and then follow the levee along the river. Visitors will find another bulletin board with trail information and a registration box. The trail forks at the end of the levee, forming the East and West Trails. Rangers recommend taking the East Trail (left) and hiking the loop in a clockwise direction, as described here.The East Trail follows the river, with boardwalks through black spruce and boggy areas, then crosses Rock Creek and follows the creek upstream through a narrow band of white spruce. The trail climbs gradually through stands of birch and aspen, and then ascends along a ridge through black spruce forests with occasional views of the Chena River valley.Between miles 5 and 6, a half mile spur trail leads to two small groups of tors. There may be water on the spur trail and at a spring near mile 6. From here on, the main trail is marked by rock cairns. Between miles 7 and 9, the East Trail ends and a less-developed trail, marked by wooden tripods and cairns, continues through wet areas where views of the Alaska Range are great.The West Trail begins near mile 9, winding through a forested saddle and emerging on a barren ridge top. It then drops to the last group of tors, the Lizard's Eye. The final five miles of the trail encompass the descent from the Lizard's Eye to a boardwalk on the upper part of Rock Creek. Visitors will arrive at the junction of East and West Trails where they can follow the levee to the bridge and return to the trailhead. |
| |  | | | Facilities: There are no facilities along the trail. Reservations: Unknown Best Time To Visit: The Granite Tors Trail is open year-round. Fees: Unknown Accessibility: Unknown Rules: Water sources may not be safe to drink and are not reliable in dry weather. Carry plenty of water and purify water collected along the way. Portions of the trails are steep and rocky; wear suitable footgear. Carry insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes and gnats. Do not attempt rock climbs without proper training and equipment. The weather is unpredictable; carry warm clothing and raingear. Directions: The Tors Trail Campground is located at mile 39.5 Chena Hot Springs Road, along the Chena River. | | |
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| | | | Address | | Northern Area Office | | 3700 Airport Way | | Fairbanks, Alaska 99709-4613 |
| | | Phone | | General: (907) 451-2695 | | Fax: (907) 451-2754 | |
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