The best cycling routes in Alaska

Embark on the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail for a challenging touring bicycle ride along the Alaskan coast. This difficult route spans 21.1 miles (34.0 km) and involves a total elevation gain of 689 feet (210 metres), taking approximately 2 hours and 7 minutes to complete. As you pedal, you will experience diverse landscapes, from open coastal marshes to dense spruce forests. The trail offers continuous views of Cook Inlet and the majestic Chugach Mountains in the distance. You'll also pass by Westchester Lagoon, a notable spot where you can observe local birdlife.

The trail is accessible throughout the year, making it a flexible option for your cycling plans. You will find multiple access points along the route, each offering convenient parking facilities. If you are visiting Anchorage without your own bicycle, rentals are readily available in the downtown area. This makes it simple to begin your adventure on this popular coastal path. Consider starting your ride in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and potentially less crowded sections.

Beyond the scenic vistas, the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is renowned for its abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. Keep a keen eye out for moose foraging near the trailside and bald eagles soaring overhead. If you are lucky, you might even spot beluga whales swimming in the waters of Cook Inlet. The trail provides a unique opportunity to connect with Alaska's natural ecosystem right on the edge of Anchorage. It stands out as a prime example of urban wilderness, blending city views with wild landscapes.

Embark on a moderate touring cycling adventure along the Moose Loop via Chester Creek Trail, a route spanning 30.6 miles (49.2 km) with an elevation gain of 868 feet (265 metres). This journey, typically completed in about 2 hours and 53 minutes, offers a blend of urban greenways and natural Alaskan landscapes. You'll pedal through peaceful wooded areas and parks on the Chester Creek Trail, experiencing a true greenbelt feel. As the route continues, you'll be treated to expansive scenic views of the majestic Chugach Mountains and the Knik Arm, especially from the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail section. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including moose and bald eagles, making this a truly immersive experience.

Planning your touring cycling trip on the Moose Loop is straightforward, as the route is maintained and accessible throughout all seasons. You will find numerous access points located conveniently throughout Anchorage, allowing you to join the trail at various points and customize your ride length. Parking is generally available at the many parks and trailheads situated along the entire route. This flexibility makes it easy to fit the adventure into your schedule, whether you are looking for a full loop or a shorter segment.

This extensive route combines several of Anchorage's multi-use trails, creating a comprehensive cycling experience that showcases the city's commitment to outdoor recreation. The Moose Loop is particularly notable for its integration of urban and natural environments, offering a unique perspective on the Alaskan landscape. It serves as a vital artery for local cyclists, connecting different parts of the city while providing continuous opportunities for wildlife viewing. This trail stands out as a prime example of how urban planning can harmoniously coexist with natural beauty.

Embark on the Moose Loop via Ship Creek Trail for a moderate touring bicycle adventure that showcases Anchorage's diverse environment. This 32.3-mile (52.1 km) route involves an 880-foot (268 metres) elevation gain, typically taking about 3 hours and 4 minutes to complete. You will experience a blend of urban landscapes and natural beauty, cycling along the scenic Tony Knowles Coastal Trail with views of Cook Inlet and the distant Chugach Range. The paved, multi-use path ensures a smooth ride, offering a refreshing escape within the city.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as this urban greenway is accessible year-round for recreational opportunities. The trail is primarily off-limits to vehicles, providing a safe cycling environment, though some sections run alongside roadways where you will need to use crosswalks and pedestrian signals. As a touring cyclist, you will find the paved surfaces well-suited for a comfortable journey. Consider starting your ride early to enjoy quieter paths and better chances for wildlife viewing.

This distinctive route is notable for connecting four key multi-use trails, forming a shape on the map that resembles a moose's head. As you cycle, keep an eye out for local wildlife; opportunities to spot bald eagles and even moose are common, particularly near areas like Kincaid Park. The trail offers a unique way to explore Anchorage, combining natural vistas with glimpses of the city's vibrant downtown area.

Embark on the Tour of Anchorage loop, a touring cycling adventure that immerses you in the city's diverse landscapes. This moderate route spans 32.7 miles (52.6 km), guiding you through urban greenways, wooded areas, and wetlands. You will experience a total elevation gain of 1012 feet (308 metres), which you can comfortably complete in about 3 hours and 18 minutes. As you pedal, look for coastal views along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, where on clear days you might even spot Mount Denali in the distance or beluga whales in Cook Inlet. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including moose, as you connect various parts of the city's extensive trail network.

Planning your visit to the Tour of Anchorage loop is straightforward, as the route is generally accessible year-round. It primarily uses paved multi-use trails, making for a smooth ride. Given its urban nature, you will find various access points and parking options conveniently located throughout Anchorage. However, it is always wise to check local conditions before you go, especially during the winter months, as certain trail segments might be groomed for other activities like cross-country skiing. This ensures you have the best possible experience on your ride.

What makes the Tour of Anchorage loop particularly notable is its comprehensive showcase of Anchorage's unique environment. The route masterfully blends the convenience of city cycling with opportunities to observe natural beauty and wildlife. You get to experience the dynamic interplay between urban development and preserved natural habitats, from the bustling city to serene coastal stretches and quiet wooded paths. This trail offers a distinct perspective on Anchorage, highlighting its commitment to outdoor recreation and environmental preservation.

Embark on the Bird to Gird Pathway for a moderate touring cycling adventure, stretching 26.3 miles (42.3 km) with an elevation gain of 999 feet (304 metres). This route offers continuous, dramatic views of the Turnagain Arm, framed by the majestic, glacier-covered Chugach Mountains. As you cycle, you will pass through diverse landscapes, from wooded areas and open flats to dense spruce forests, occasionally encountering small waterfalls. Expect a ride that takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes, featuring mostly paved surfaces but also some hilly sections and potential root cracks.

When planning your visit, be aware that while the pathway is accessible year-round, it is not plowed or maintained during winter, so conditions will vary significantly. You should also prepare for a long uphill climb as you approach Girdwood, where grades can exceed 6%, making good braking skills advisable for the descents. Consider starting early to enjoy the serene morning light and avoid busier times, especially during peak season.

This designated National Recreation Trail is renowned for its abundant wildlife. Keep a keen eye out for beluga whales in the inlet, or spot mountain goats, moose, and bald eagles on land, particularly around Bird Point. The trail's unique position along the Turnagain Arm makes it a prime location for experiencing Alaska's natural beauty and diverse ecosystems up close, offering a memorable outdoor experience.

Embark on a touring cycling adventure along the Glenn Highway Trail, a moderate route stretching 37.5 miles (60.4 km) with an elevation gain of 1301 feet (397 metres). You can expect to complete this journey in about 3 hours and 33 minutes. As you pedal, you will witness a striking transition from the urban edges of Anchorage to expansive farmlands and distant glaciers, all set against the majestic backdrop of the Chugach Mountains. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including moose, as you traverse this diverse landscape.

When planning your ride, be aware that while much of the trail is paved, some sections closer to Anchorage can be rough, and you might encounter sandy hills in certain areas. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider the specific 2-mile section of the former Glenn Highway, which offers a hilly and scenic alternative to the main route. However, if you choose to cycle directly along the main highway shoulder, anticipate some traffic noise.

This trail offers more than just a ride; it connects Anchorage with communities like Eagle River and Chugiak, providing both a practical path and a scenic journey. Along the way, you will pass by points of interest such as Beach Lake Park and the Alaska Native Heritage Center, blending natural beauty with cultural insights. It is a great way to experience the varied environments and attractions of Alaska's Chugach State Park.

Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along the Ship Creek and Chester Creek Trail Loop, a 12.5 miles (20.1 km) route that takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes to complete. You will experience a gentle elevation gain of 256 feet (78 metres) as you pedal through varied urban landscapes. Enjoy views of downtown Anchorage and the vast Cook Inlet, where you might even spot salmon anglers during the right season. The route then guides you along Chester Creek, winding through greenbelts and parks with numerous bridges and underpasses.

This paved loop is part of Anchorage's extensive multi-use trail system, making it a well-maintained option suitable for year-round use. You can easily access the trailhead and find parking near the start point at 61.220246, -149.897892. The route connects seamlessly to various points of interest within downtown Anchorage, offering convenience for your visit. It is an ideal choice if you are looking for an accessible urban cycling experience.

As you cycle, keep an eye out for local wildlife like moose and various bird species that frequent the greenbelts. The trail's path along Ship Creek offers unique perspectives of Government Hill and the city's waterfront. This route stands out as a perfect example of how Anchorage integrates nature into its urban fabric, providing a refreshing escape without leaving the city.

Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along the Eklutna Lakeside Trail, a wide, mostly flat gravel path that traces the edge of the turquoise glacial Eklutna Lake. This route spans 10.2 miles (16.4 km) and involves a gentle elevation gain of 371 feet (113 metres), making it a relaxed journey through Alaskan wilderness. As you pedal, you will enjoy expansive views of the towering Chugach Mountains and dense spruce forests. The estimated duration for this easy ride is about 1 hour and 33 minutes, offering plenty of time to soak in the scenery. Keep an eye out for waterfalls cascading down steep canyon walls as you approach the impressive Eklutna Glacier.

The Eklutna Lakeside Trail is easily accessible, located less than an hour's drive from Anchorage, which makes it a convenient escape. If you need gear, bike rentals are available directly at the trailhead from Lifetime Adventures. Be aware that the trail is multi-use, shared by hikers, bikers, and ATVs on Sundays through Wednesdays, so expect company on those days. Planning your visit during weekdays might offer a quieter experience.

This trail stands out as an accessible way to experience the raw beauty of Chugach State Park. Its path along the glacial lake provides unique perspectives of the surrounding natural environment. The opportunity to spot wildlife like Dall sheep and moose adds to the adventure. The trail's proximity to Anchorage and its easy difficulty make it a popular choice for a quick outdoor excursion.

Embark on an easy touring bicycle adventure along the Chester Creek Trail, a paved greenbelt route spanning 13.5 miles (21.7 km) through Anchorage. You will experience a gentle elevation gain of just 339 feet (103 metres), making this ride perfect for a relaxed outing that takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. As you pedal, you will find yourself immersed in wooded surroundings, often feeling far removed from the city, with glimpses of the majestic Chugach Mountains providing a scenic backdrop to your journey.

This accessible trail is suitable for most ages and abilities, offering a smooth ride on its paved surface. You can easily access the route from various points within Anchorage, and it is a multi-seasonal path, popular not only for cycling but also for walking and even cross-country skiing in winter. Consider starting your ride in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy the best light and potentially fewer people, ensuring a more tranquil experience on the path.

The Chester Creek Trail stands out as a vital urban greenway, connecting several community parks like Tikishla and Woodside, which offer convenient spots for a break or to start your ride. Its unique position allows you to enjoy nature within the city limits, providing a refreshing escape without venturing far. Furthermore, the trail offers a direct connection to the renowned Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, opening up possibilities for extending your touring bicycle explorations along the scenic coastline.