7-Mile Saddle Trail (Ripinski Ridge)

Starts at the 7-Mile trailhead on the Haines Highway (signed as the Ripinski Trailhead), crosses muskeg on a boardwalk and switchbacks through lodgepole pine to brush and mountain hemlock near 2,000 feet. The 7-Mile Saddle, 1.9 miles in, is a good camping spot. From there the route climbs steeply to Shakuseyi (Peak 3920, about 3 miles one way) and follows the ridge east to Mount Ripinski (about 5.6 miles one way, 3,900 feet of gain), or turns left onto the Tukgahgo Route to the Tukga Hut. The trail is unmarked in places, so carry a map and compass; the full traverse to Main Street is about 10 miles and takes 8 to 10 hours. Brown bears are common here; make noise, carry bear spray and keep food secured.