Let's Take a Tor!

How to Reach A Summit

Legs burning, but mind resolute, I submerse myself into a winter ridden earth. This place surpasses serenity with its boundless beauty, yet demands respect. Climbing its hills, my feet sink into the snow. I’m slipping back, but how high can I go? I question reasoning briefly, yet strength of thought never leaves me as I venture toward Granite Tors.

I ponder these plutons’ presence from afar, imagining their grandeur when I arrive at their base. But first I must break trail, doubt, and a sweat. I know what hard work truly is as I struggle towards the summit.

There’s harmonious peace to be found with a pack weighing me down as the wind claws my face and the sun sets too soon.

There is division between summit, illustrious exhaustion, and adventurous doom. But I’m safe at the tors, having made it this far.

In the snow blanketed high tundra, amidst endless mountain views and distinct granite monuments, I gaze in awe.

What is more glorious, the land or power of will?

How does a hiker reach a summit?

He must never abandon the thrill. It’s the thrill of accomplishment, raw power, and pride. It’s the thrill of looking on a subarctic wonderland, sitting as close as he can come to the sky.

View from the cabin at Granite Tors.

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In the Chena River State Recreation Area, only 39 miles from Fairbanks, Alaska, Granite Tors Trail begins. Easy access and beautiful scenery make this a great day or weekend destination. I had the opportunity to hike the 15 mile loop on October 11 and 12. My experience was phenomenal and something I would surly do again. 

Tors Trail is the 15 mile loop, branching off of the 3 mile loop.

The 15 mile loop presents obstacles which should be considered, but are not impossible. One such obstacle is the possibility of no trail. Because I hiked in October, the trail was covered in snow and had to be broken. This is strenuous work and hikers may question if they are travelling in the correct direction. However, a trail map is found on: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/chena/granitetorsho.pdf and landscaping flags mark the path so the task can be accomplished by even novice navigators.

People and animals both break trails.

Breaking trail was just one element of  the hike. Another challenge is the three hills that must be surmounted before even getting close to the tors. A hiker must manage gaining 2,900 ft of altitude over the loop's first half. This is not too daunting in the warmer months, but gaining that elevation in slippery, thick snow can prove to be quite a feat. The last hill was especially steep and slick, so I was glad to be wearing snow shoes. Hiking poles also help with the terrain. Luckily, the view at the top of the hill makes the climb completely worthwhile.

A view from the second hill. I felt as if I was on top of the world because of how big the view was.

After a hiker summits the hills, the tors present themselves in their full glory. There are the Near Tors and Far Tors, both of which are seen from the 15 mile loop. They are randomly placed amidst the windswept tundra above treeline. Far reaching views of the Alaska Range and Chena River are also on display from the tors.

Various plutons from the Near Tors section.

Lizard's Eye Tor

The frigid tundra with Far Tors in the trees below.

Hiking even further, the trail descends into a black spruce and birch forest. This part is a nice, relaxing portion with more views and water. Chena River is the grand finale view from the hike before going back onto the 3 mile loop and reaching the trail head.

I suggest visiting Granite Tors one day or weekend. It can be a strenuous or casual hike depending on the season and loop choice. No matter what, one will be astounded by the beauty this place has to offer, all while being within reach of Fairbanks. I'm happy I was able to visit the tors and enjoy what I would call a true Alaska experience.

Until next time...