The best cycling routes around Anchorage
4.9
(97)
1,919
riders
175
rides
Touring cycling around Anchorage features an extensive network of trails that integrate urban paths with vast Alaskan wilderness. The region is characterized by coastal views of the Cook Inlet, the Chugach Mountains, and expansive parks with rolling hills and forests. Glacial lakes and streams are also prominent features, offering diverse terrain for cyclists. This blend provides a wide range of cycling experiences across varied landscapes.
Best touring cycling routes around Anchorage
- The most popular touring cycling route is Tony Knowlesβ¦
Last updated: April 24, 2026
5.0
(7)
200
riders
34.0km
02:07
210m
210m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(11)
98
riders
49.2km
02:53
260m
260m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(11)
90
riders
52.1km
03:04
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
53
riders
52.6km
03:19
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
42
riders
42.3km
02:31
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This is a unique beach access in Anchorage with the highest tide in the US. The rocky beach area leads out to the mudflats. This is a beautiful place to watch the sunset.
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You'll probably have to dismount your bike at the intersection with the Coastal Trail and walk it the rest of the way here (or leave it tied up and locked to a tree or the bench at the trail intersection). However, it's worth a quick stop to take in the only real sand beach near Anchorage. With that said, please stay off the mudflats. They might feel safe when the tide is out, but the water comes in very quickly and the mud turns to quicksand when it does. Some people have died from this (drowning as the tide swept over them), while other have been lucky to escape with their lives.
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This section of the paved, multi-use Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is just south of Point Woronzof, a popular location for watching jets land and take off from the nearby airport. The trail here winds through the trees and traverses a couple of long, gradual hills.
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The paved trail makes a sharp bend here, offering some views toward the marshland at the bottom of the bluff. There's also a small, unpaved spur trail near here that leads to a sand beach that isn't rideable, but you can always walk your bike or lock it to a nearby bench.
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This section of the paved, multi-use Bird to Gird Trail includes Bird Point, a popular spot to watch the bore tide rolling in. However, you only get a distant view and it's hard to forecast how big the tide will or won't be.
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This is actually several trails cobbled together to create the route for the Tour of Anchorage, a ski marathon that happens every March. There's also a fat-tire-bike division, and these trails are a popular choice for summer biking, too. The riding surface is mostly a mix of wide, hard-packed dirt and gravel that most bikes can handle, as long as you don't have skinny road-racing tires.
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This paved trail is designated for multi-use year-round, but it's at its best for biking during the summer. During the winter, you'd need a fat-tire bike to make progress on the snow. Watch out for moose in all seasons, as they're very commonly sighted here. If you do see a moose, give it plenty of space and make sure to never get between a mother moose and her calf.
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Chugach State Park is the fourth largest state park in the United States, spanning approximately 495,000 acres. The park is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts due to its diversity in landscape and wildlife. Visitors may enjoy ocean shores, rivers and lakes, alpine tundra, and glaciers, as well as views of brown and black bears, moose, Dall sheep, mountain goats, and more. There are 16 trailheads providing access to 280 miles of trails in Chugach State Park.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Anchorage?
Anchorage offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 180 options available on komoot. These routes cater to different skill levels, from leisurely rides to more challenging adventures.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Anchorage?
Yes, Anchorage has numerous easy touring cycling routes. Out of the total routes, 119 are classified as easy, making them perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. Many of these routes wind through urban greenbelts and offer gentle terrain.
What are some scenic viewpoints along the touring cycling routes in Anchorage?
Many routes offer breathtaking views. For instance, the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail provides panoramic vistas of the Cook Inlet, the Chugach Mountains, and on clear days, even Denali. You can also enjoy views of the Cook Inlet from View of Cook Inlet, a highlight along the coast.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Anchorage?
Yes, Anchorage features several excellent circular routes. The Tour of Anchorage loop is a popular moderate option, covering over 32 miles. Another great choice is the Moose Loop, which can be experienced via routes like Moose Loop via Chester Creek Trail or Moose Loop via Ship Creek Trail, offering a comprehensive tour of the city's greenbelts.
Can I find touring cycling routes that pass by lakes or waterfalls in Anchorage?
Absolutely. Anchorage's routes often feature stunning natural attractions. You can cycle near beautiful lakes like Lake Spenard or Westchester Lagoon. For waterfalls, consider exploring areas near Thunderbird Falls or McHugh Falls and Overlook, which are accessible via nearby trails.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Anchorage?
The touring cycling experience in Anchorage is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the stunning coastal views, the integration of urban paths with wild Alaskan scenery, and the diverse terrain that caters to all skill levels.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in Anchorage?
Many of Anchorage's easy and moderate routes are suitable for families. The paved paths through urban greenbelts, such as sections of the Moose Loop or the Chester Creek Trail, offer safe and enjoyable rides for all ages. These routes often pass through parks and offer opportunities for wildlife spotting.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while cycling in Anchorage?
Anchorage's trails are known for wildlife sightings. Cyclists frequently spot moose, especially along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail and within Kincaid Park. Bears are also occasionally seen in larger parks like Kincaid. It's always advisable to be aware of your surroundings and carry bear spray for safety.
Is it possible to cycle year-round in Anchorage?
Yes, Anchorage embraces year-round cycling. While the summer months offer ideal conditions for touring, the city has a vibrant fat biking culture in winter. Many trails are suitable for fat biking even when covered in snow, providing a unique winter outdoor experience.
Are there any touring cycling routes that offer views of glaciers?
While not directly on the main touring cycling routes listed, the broader Anchorage area, particularly within Chugach State Park, offers access to glacial landscapes. The Eklutna Lake Trail, for example, provides an easy mountain bike ride along a glacial lake, with opportunities to reach the toe of the Eklutna Glacier.
What should I wear when touring cycling in Anchorage?
Given Alaska's variable weather, it's best to dress in layers. Even in summer, temperatures can change quickly. Essential gear includes reflective clothing for visibility, especially if riding near dusk or dawn, and consider bringing bug spray. For safety in wilderness areas, bear spray is also recommended.
Are there any touring cycling routes that follow the coast or a river?
Yes, Anchorage offers fantastic coastal and river-side cycling. The Bird to Gird Pathway follows the scenic Turnagain Arm, offering stunning ocean views and opportunities to spot beluga whales. The Campbell Creek Trail winds through forests and wetlands alongside salmon-filled streams, providing a different kind of water-side experience.
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