The granite tors in Alaska are some of the most fascinating pieces of natural phenomena in the state. Located outside of Fairbanks, Alaska, these stunning rock formations tower above the skyline. Take the popular Granite Tors Trail out to see the mammoth rocks!
The granite tors in Alaska are located outside of Fairbanks in the Chena River State Recreation Area.
Caitlin Bernard / AllTrails The area spans more than 254,000 acres and is centered on the Chena River. There is a public use cabin, and many incredible natural features that visitors come to see, including the granite tors.
You can access the tors on the Granite Tor Trail.
Kathryn Reichert / AllTrails It’s a long trail rated as moderately difficult and some sections can be steep. It is also rocky, and easy to lose your footing.
The trail totals a little over 14 miles.
Boaz Feldboim / AllTrails It’s a loop trail, so every step on the trail offers you something new to see. The most famous aspect of this trail is the Plain of Monuments, filled with granite tors.
Tors are large outcroppings of granite that were created when molten lava was thrust upwards, without breaking through the earth’s surface.
Thomas Vrable / AllTrails They cooled and hardened into the rock formations you see today. Over millions of years, the dirt and earth that surrounded it slowly eroded, leaving these giant, stunning statues.
The rock pinnacles are usually around 16 feet high.
Thomas Vrable / AllTrails You can find tors freestanding on top of hills or ridge crests. They attract rock climbers, photographers, geologists, and visitors who want to enjoy these beautiful rock spires.
The trail through the tors gives you incredible views of the Chena Valley below.
Thomas Vrable / AllTrails On a clear day, you can see the Alaska Range too. It makes for a beautiful hike no matter the season. If you’re heading out during the middle of winter, be mindful of the frigid temperatures and recent snowfall.
Hiking out to see these incredible rock formations is a magical experience.
Thomas Vrable / AllTrails The trail is difficult enough that it isn’t hugely populated, even during the best weather. Since you most likely won’t see any other people, it’s the perfect opportunity for you if you’re looking for solitude and silence. Visiting the tors is definitely a bucket list experience!
Have you ever seen the granite tors? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below!
Caitlin Bernard / AllTrails
The area spans more than 254,000 acres and is centered on the Chena River. There is a public use cabin, and many incredible natural features that visitors come to see, including the granite tors.
Kathryn Reichert / AllTrails
It’s a long trail rated as moderately difficult and some sections can be steep. It is also rocky, and easy to lose your footing.
Boaz Feldboim / AllTrails
It’s a loop trail, so every step on the trail offers you something new to see. The most famous aspect of this trail is the Plain of Monuments, filled with granite tors.
Thomas Vrable / AllTrails
They cooled and hardened into the rock formations you see today. Over millions of years, the dirt and earth that surrounded it slowly eroded, leaving these giant, stunning statues.
You can find tors freestanding on top of hills or ridge crests. They attract rock climbers, photographers, geologists, and visitors who want to enjoy these beautiful rock spires.
On a clear day, you can see the Alaska Range too. It makes for a beautiful hike no matter the season. If you’re heading out during the middle of winter, be mindful of the frigid temperatures and recent snowfall.
The trail is difficult enough that it isn’t hugely populated, even during the best weather. Since you most likely won’t see any other people, it’s the perfect opportunity for you if you’re looking for solitude and silence. Visiting the tors is definitely a bucket list experience!
If you’re interested in learning more about Alaska’s natural features, here are The 10 Most Incredible Natural Attractions In Alaska That Everyone Should Visit.
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