Old Glenn Highway Foot Bridge

The Old Glenn Highway Bike Path offers a delightful road cycling experience through Alaska's pastoral countryside, providing stunning views of the Matanuska River and the majestic Chugach Mountains, including Pioneer Peak. You'll enjoy a largely well-paved surface as you cycle, crossing the Matanuska River on the dedicated Old Glenn Highway Foot Bridge, which offers unique perspectives of the glacial waters. This route is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the Alaskan landscape without tackling extreme terrain.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the path is easily accessible and provides a peaceful alternative to the busier main highway. While mostly flat, be prepared for some gentle grade changes and occasional rougher patches from tree roots or gravel. The route is generally considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for most fitness levels, and is best enjoyed during the warmer summer months for optimal conditions.

This 17.8-mile (28.7 km) road cycling route, with a modest 260 feet (79 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hour and 9 minutes to complete. It's notable for its combination of accessibility, scenic beauty, and historical significance, traversing an area historically populated by farming families. The path also serves as a gateway to state parks and recreation areas, making it a versatile option for both recreation and commuting.

If you're looking for a road cycling adventure that combines stunning Alaskan scenery with a bit of a challenge, the Old Knik River Bridge – Old Glenn Highway Foot Bridge loop from Hunter Creek is a solid choice. This moderate route spans 46.2 miles (74.3 km) and features 1893 feet (577 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 3 hours and 21 minutes. You'll enjoy continuous views of the Matanuska River and the Chugach Mountains, with the historic Old Knik River Bridge serving as a memorable crossing point.

Before you head out, be prepared for potentially unpaved segments, particularly in areas associated with Hunter Creek, which might be difficult for a standard road bike. While the Old Glenn Highway Bike Path is mostly paved, the full loop demands good fitness and a bike capable of handling varied terrain. It's wise to check current trail conditions and consider wider tires if you prefer a smoother ride.

This loop offers a glimpse into the region's past, utilizing parts of the Old Glenn Highway, an older route through the area. The Matanuska River, with its murky, silt-laden waters from the Matanuska Glacier, adds a unique natural element to the landscape. The Old Knik River Bridge itself, abandoned for vehicle traffic since 1975, stands as a testament to the area's history and provides a distinctive, scenic viewpoint.

The Crevasse Moraine Trailhead – Old Glenn Highway Foot Bridge loop from Gateway offers a unique road cycling experience, blending the distinctive glacial terrain of the Crevasse Moraine with the charming "old Alaska" feel of the Old Glenn Highway. You'll pedal through boreal forest and rolling hills, enjoying picturesque pastoral countryside framed by the impressive Chugach Mountains and Pioneer Peak. Keep an eye out for the Matanuska River, especially when crossing the dedicated foot and bike bridge, where you can admire its murky, silt-laden waters.

This moderate cycling route covers 44.1 miles (70.9 km) with 1002 feet (305 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 53 minutes to complete. Parking is available at the Crevasse Moraine Trailhead, but it's wise to arrive early during peak season. While primarily a road cycling route, be aware that some sections may be unpaved, adding a bit of challenge and variety to your ride.

What makes this cycling route stand out is its combination of natural beauty and a glimpse into the region's past. The Old Glenn Highway provides a quieter, more scenic alternative to the main thoroughfare, and the Old Glenn Highway Foot Bridge is a notable landmark designed specifically for non-motorized traffic. It's a fantastic way to explore the Matanuska Greenbelt, a sprawling network of trails that serves as a year-round recreational hub.