Rabbit Creek (Anchorage, Alaska) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rabbit Creek |
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The headwaters of Rabbit Creek at Rabbit Lake, with North and South Suicide Peaks in the background
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Anchorage Watersheds with Rabbit Creek and Little Rabbit Creek in green and pink, respectively
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Location of the mouth of Rabbit Creek in Alaska
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| Native name | Ggeh Betnu |
| Country | United States |
| State | Alaska |
| Municipality | Anchorage |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Rabbit Lake Chugach Mountains 3,153 ft (961 m) 61°02′31″N 149°35′08″W / 61.0419444°N 149.5855556°W |
| River mouth | Turnagain Arm, Anchorage 13 ft (4.0 m) 61°04′41″N 149°49′25″W / 61.0780556°N 149.8236111°W |
| Length | 15 mi (24 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Tributaries |
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Rabbit Creek is a cool stream that flows right through the city of Anchorage, Alaska. It's about 15 miles (24 km) long, starting high up in the Chugach Mountains and ending in a big body of water called Turnagain Arm. Long ago, before English speakers arrived, the local Dena'ina people had their own name for it: "Ggeh Betnu."
Where Rabbit Creek Flows
Rabbit Creek begins its journey high up in the mountains at a place called Rabbit Lake. This lake is like the "source" or "headwaters" of the creek. It sits at about 3,153 feet (961 meters) above sea level. Rabbit Lake is a beautiful, 75-acre (0.30 km²) lake nestled between two tall mountains, North Suicide Peak and South Suicide Peak.
From Rabbit Lake, the creek flows downhill from the Chugach Mountains. It winds its way west, passing through neighborhoods and green areas like Griffin Park. Near its end, it meets a smaller stream called Little Rabbit Creek. This smaller creek adds its water to Rabbit Creek.
Finally, Rabbit Creek flows under the Seward Highway and empties into Turnagain Arm. Turnagain Arm is a part of Cook Inlet, which connects to the larger Pacific Ocean.
Fun Things to Do at Rabbit Creek
Rabbit Creek is a popular spot for outdoor adventures! There's a well-known hiking trail that follows the upper part of the creek. This trail is about 4.4 miles (7.1 km) long.
You can start your hike from Canyon Road and follow the trail all the way up to Rabbit Lake. It's a great way to explore the beautiful Chugach Mountains and see where the creek begins. Many people enjoy hiking, taking pictures, and enjoying nature along the creek.
