Mt Marathon Trailhead - Hiking area in Seward - 537 1st Ave, USA

Absolutely wonderful hike! Got about 850-950 ft up the mountain and took the pics posted. Could see all the way to south end bay. Good hiking shoes needed if wet as there are some elevation changes and some water crossings. None are difficult yet the traction would help. Really enjoyed and would go again!

Quite a strenuous but very rewarding hike with wonderful views. We did an out and back hike all the way up on the hiking trails instead of going back down the runners trail, which I would recommend as that is very steep. It was super muddy when we went so prepare accordingly if it’s raining. Great for a challenge!

Fun and challenging hike. Trails are a bit muddy in spots, the views are fantastic!

The day we went in the beginning of August was incredibly cloudy. We took the Jeep route instead of the racing route, as recommended by locals for safety. The trail starts off VERY steep with some loose rock, and then it turns into a nice pine bed trail. We took bear spray with us as we didn't see one person the whole time we were hiking. There is a cute waterfall along the way. To get to the end of the jeep trail, once you come out of the trees, only take maybe an hour even with stops. Then you can continue on a single-trek overgrown trail (bench trail). Definitely would have been better if there were no clouds so we could continue up and see the views. You only need an hour to get to the end of Jeep Trail, but look at reviews from clear days if you're going to the top!

Ok, I gave in...4 stars because looking back at the pictures it was incredible! However, I definitely need to warn folks (as the signage suggests) that this is a difficult hike. Myself, and my 68 yo (very in shape) father took 6 hours to complete this (making it up the rocky steep portion past the bowl) but not to the race point. It was not too bad on the way up in regards to the potential for getting lost....BUT, we somehow got lost on the way back and it was quite frightening. Only thanks to an angel did we make it back onto the Jeep trail on the way down, but only after really roughing it in the mud and down very steep inclines (I suspect we ended up on a part of the racers trail). I can't say that we're the most experienced hikers in the planet, but just reader beware, if you attempt this start EARLY, and don't expect there will be folks on the trail to help navigate, granted we went after the "season" ended (9/28) and saw a grand total of 2 people.

Easy to find trailhead. Jeep trail is almost exactly 3 miles to the top. Trail was well maintained and easy to follow. Trail can get sticky and muddy in places but I did make it in running shoes with little problems- would recommend boots. First 2/3 of trail is gentle switchbacks up the mountain. Last mile is out of the trees and a much steeper incline with a large portion scrambling rocks and lose shale. Most should not have a problem as long as mobility is good and you take your time. Experienced hikers wouldn't give it a thought. Tons of berries on the trail. Salmonberries, blueberries and cranberries. Bear sightings from other fellow hikers was reported but we did not spy any. We did see a adolescent eagle. We took the race path down (1.5 miles-ish- once you get down take the cliff path and it will crossover to the start) making the round trip 4.5miles. This way down is not marked.

Awesome hiking trail, the first tenth of a mile is a pretty steep and rocky after that no problem. When you get out of the tree line the trail becomes pretty narrow but is easy to navigate. Excellent views!

Challenging hike in the beginning and near the top but worth every step! Don't get discouraged by the beginning, it is an exhausting third of a mile up hill but the trail levels out and the views are breathtaking!