There are some very cool geological features here in the state of Alaska. From incredible glaciers, to towering volcanoes, we are blessed with an abundance of beautiful things to see here! These rock formations outside of Fairbanks, Alaska are stunning pinnacles of geographic beauty. Take a hike to get to these towers and see their magnificence up close!
The Granite Tors Trail is located an hour’s drive outside of Fairbanks, Alaska.
Thomas Vrable / AllTrails It’s situated inside Chena River State Recreation Area. To get to the rock formations you’ll have to hike the trail all the way out from the parking lot and trailhead.
These granite tors were actually formed 70 to 90 million years ago when lava from beneath the earth’s crust pushed up, although not through the surface of the crust.
Alissa Baldock/ AllTrails The tors were exposed after millions of years of erosion. Now they are tall pillars visible from miles away, a stunning feature in the area around Fairbanks.
These rock formations bring in photographers, hikers, and geologists from all around the world.
Alissa Baldock/ AllTrails You may even see rock climbers hanging around the area and looking for the best spots to free climb! During the early fall there are many berry pickers in the area looking for the low brush blueberries that grow in abundance.
The hike is a challenging 14 mile loop that passes through the beautiful rock formations.
Joshua Stapp / AllTrails Many hikers camp at the formations before heading back to the car. If you hike it clockwise there is far less elevation gain and the trail is a little more accessible.
The trail offers incredible views beyond just the granite tors.
Joshua Stapp / AllTrails You’ll hike along boardwalks, and over bridges. There’s a stunning river that offers a beautiful sight, too! Once you ascend through the forests and up onto a barren ridge line, you’ll begin to see the tors towering above the earth!
The total elevation gain throughout the whole hike is 3,336 feet.
Caitlin Bernard / AllTrails You’ll see your first tor about 7 miles into the hike. Even though this hike is a little more on the difficult side, it gets high ratings from everyone who sees these rock formations!
The Granite Tors Trail is a stunning trail to do spring, summer, and fall!
Shawn Baldwin / AllTrails You can find the entrance to the trail inside the Granite Tors Campground. You can park at the campground for $5.00 a day before heading out on the trail!
Have you hiked the rock formations at the Granite Tors Trail? What did you think? Would you do it again? Let us know in the comments below!
Thomas Vrable / AllTrails
It’s situated inside Chena River State Recreation Area. To get to the rock formations you’ll have to hike the trail all the way out from the parking lot and trailhead.
Alissa Baldock/ AllTrails
The tors were exposed after millions of years of erosion. Now they are tall pillars visible from miles away, a stunning feature in the area around Fairbanks.
You may even see rock climbers hanging around the area and looking for the best spots to free climb! During the early fall there are many berry pickers in the area looking for the low brush blueberries that grow in abundance.
Joshua Stapp / AllTrails
Many hikers camp at the formations before heading back to the car. If you hike it clockwise there is far less elevation gain and the trail is a little more accessible.
You’ll hike along boardwalks, and over bridges. There’s a stunning river that offers a beautiful sight, too! Once you ascend through the forests and up onto a barren ridge line, you’ll begin to see the tors towering above the earth!
Caitlin Bernard / AllTrails
You’ll see your first tor about 7 miles into the hike. Even though this hike is a little more on the difficult side, it gets high ratings from everyone who sees these rock formations!
Shawn Baldwin / AllTrails
You can find the entrance to the trail inside the Granite Tors Campground. You can park at the campground for $5.00 a day before heading out on the trail!
If you’re win Fairbanks, make sure to fuel up after your trip at This Tiny Restaurant In Alaska Has Crepes That Are Almost Too Good To Be True!
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Address: Granite Tors Trailhead and Campground, Fairbanks, AK 99712, USA
