Oh what a spectacular and steep hike this was. I went with the Valley Wanderers. Those ladies are hard core hikers and I had a really hard time keeping up with them. I think I was the last one to reach the top of Gold Star Peak. But I wasn't too far behind. I've wanted to do this hike for several years, but was a little unsure about attempting it alone. During week days I rarely see a car parked here, so was quite surprised to see the tiny turnout parking spot overloaded with cars. There was a large youth group also climbing today, which accounted for so many vehicles. The trail is mostly straight up and there seemed to be multiple options, but all eventually go to the same place. There is a fixed rope somewhere, but we managed to find a trail that missed it altogether. But we did reach the top with its many monuments to our fallen and missing soldiers. It's a very special place. The views were spectacular and it looks possible to wander on over to the West Twin Peak or even down through the valley and join the Twin Peaks Trail. But I know that would involve some serious climbing of exposed rocks. So of course we returned the way we came. The youth group was involved in the plan to improve the trail so that it would be less of a straight up climb, with switchbacks. A nice parking area will be essential if it is ever to be a well used trail. As it is, you really have to just know where the trailhead is, because it's 1/2 mile past the small turnout where most people park. Its not marked, but you can see marks in the road cut where people have scrambled up. It's right by the 5 mile marker of Eklutna Lake Road.
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| Dog Tags from the Gold Star Fallen |
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| Monument to the Military Canines with Me & Baby |
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| Summit of God Star Peak |
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| The Valley Wanderers |
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| Beautiful Monument on top |
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