Highly Recommended Hikes for all levels

Winner Creek in Girdwood
Four miles one way, although I've only ever made it to the tram and turned around.  This is a fun, flat, easy hike.  Great for families, but I generally seek a little more thrill when I hike (peaks, scrambling, etc.)
http://alaskahikesearch.com/hikes/winner-creek/

Byron Glacier near Portage
Easy 1.2 hike to a glacier.  I haven't done this hike in a few years, but I know from driving by that many of these glaciers have receded a good amount.  It may be a longer hike to actually get to the glacier, but it's a nice walk regardless.  Also great for families!
http://alaskahikesearch.com/hikes/byron-glacier/

If you like this hike, I would highly recommend Portage Pass (scroll down to see more info or click on link) http://alaskahikesearch.com/hikes/portage-pass/

Powerline Pass
From start to finish, this hike is 14 miles, but you can do any part!  I hiked from Glen Alps to the bridge (2.5 miles) alone and then again with a friend.  The trail is busy and wide enough that I didn't feel too paranoid about running into wildlife alone, but I would still proceed with caution, especially in the spring.  The trail is very flat, making it easy to run, bike, hike, take children, etc.  I can't wait to complete all 14 miles of this hike!
http://alaskahikesearch.com/hikes/powerline-pass/#.V0j-da6rRo4

Mt. Baldy in Eagle River
1.5 miles uphill with a great view on a clear day!  This is an awesome hike because it is short enough to complete in a couple hours and close enough that you don't need all day to drive, hike, etc.  There is a path to the neighboring peaks for those who want to continue.  The link below describes this hike as moderate, but I would say it is somewhat easy.  There are a few steep parts but not as much scrambling as Flat Top.  Would be a good alternative for those who are looking for something other than FT.
http://alaskahikesearch.com/hikes/mt-baldy/#.V0h3La6rRo4

Bird Ridge off Seward Highway, 25 miles south of Anchorage
One of my favorites!  TOUGH 2.5 miles uphill and lots of false peaks.  Awesome hike on a beautiful day as it gives you a phenomenal view of Cook Inlet.  You can also follow the ridge if you wish to continue further.  Bring food, water and layers--you will be hungry, thirsty and sweaty by the time you make it to the top!
http://alaskahikesearch.com/hikes/bird-ridge/

I've been cheating on my treadmill with my yoga mat...

...and it's been amazing!

For the past month, running has taken a back seat in my life, due to the busyness of ending another school year, flying to California for a wedding weekend, wanting to explore/hike Alaska instead, etc.  I also had a frustrating but short-lived case of runner's knee after a measly one mile hike, so I thought it was all a sign that I should take it easy and pass on my favorite half marathon (which is this weekend).  As much as I wish I could run it, I haven't trained, and I would much rather spend Memorial Day Weekend away from the city.

On top of that, about a week ago, I got a one-month yoga pass to one of my favorite places--Anchorage Yoga.  Right now, they have a deal for $59 for one month, and you don't have to commit to a three month minimum and all that.  You just pay $59 for one month.  Best thing ever!

http://anchorageyogacycle.com/ <--- Check it out here!

So, in leu of running, I've been hot yoga-ing.  I've been going about three days a week and the change of pace has been super motivating.  I have even been able to wake up at 5:10 to make the 6am class (those that know me know that I am NOT a morning person).  I've found that waking up that early for yoga is waaay better than waking up that early for a run.  If you are tired, you can still do yoga; but if you wake up at 5am and are tired, your run gonna suck!

Anyway, I finally ran today, and I felt like I was the subject of an experiment.  I wasn't sure if I would be better, worse, faster, slower, out of breath, etc.  I thought I might get shin splints or runner's knee immediately.  I had a dream the other night that I ran after taking this long break and that my new mile time was 12:30!  Thankfully, I was able to run five miles at about my usual pace, a little slower (9 minutes).  I experienced no pain and could've continued running; however, I'm a conservative runner and plan on staying that way.  It has worked so far--I have never been seriously injured, and I've met my race time goals.  I hope to run 6-7 miles this weekend in preparation for the Twilight 12k in two weeks.  I may not PR, but I will definitely have fun and know that my downward dog has gotten better and that my upper body and core are much stronger from yoga :)

Namaste!