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August 7, 2023
Road cycling
August 19, 2019
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Westchester Lagoon
5.0
(2)
65
riders
29.3km
01:30
140m
140m
Pedal the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail for an easy 18.2 miles (29.3 km) of paved path, offering spectacular views of Cook Inlet and the Chugach Mountains. You'll glide past natural features like Westchester Lagoon and Earthquake Park, with only 475 feet (145 metres) of elevation gain over an estimated 1 hours and 29 minutes. This route is ideal for a relaxed ride, providing a chance to spot wildlife like moose and bald eagles against a stunning Alaskan backdrop.
Accessing the trail is straightforward from downtown Anchorage, where you'll find several bike rental options. The path is well-maintained, featuring mile markers and handy "Fix-It Stations" at key points like Earthquake Park. While perfect for summer cycling, its paved surface also welcomes year-round use for activities such as cross-country skiing.
What truly sets this trail apart is its unique blend of urban accessibility and wild Alaskan nature. You might catch planes landing at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport from Point Woronzof Park, or even spot beluga whales in Cook Inlet during August. It's a fantastic way to experience Anchorage's natural beauty and abundant wildlife within city limits.
4.7
(3)
36
riders
37.9km
01:50
240m
240m
The Anchorage Airport to Cook Inlet loop offers a fantastic road cycling experience, showcasing the best of Anchorage's coastal beauty. You'll ride along a well-paved path, winding through urban parks, wetlands, and boreal forests, all while enjoying expansive views of Cook Inlet and the majestic Chugach Mountains. Keep an eye out for eagles, moose, and even beluga whales as you pass landmarks like Westchester Lagoon and Earthquake Park.
This easy 23.6-mile (37.9 km) route, with 771 feet (235 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes to complete. While generally flat, be prepared for a few significant grades, particularly near Earthquake Park and Point Woronzof. The trail is well-maintained and accessible, making it an ideal choice for a leisurely ride.
This loop largely follows the renowned Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, Anchorage's most popular pathway. It's a great way to experience the city's natural attractions, offering close-up views of low-flying aircraft near the airport and connecting several key points of interest. It's a perfect option for anyone seeking a scenic and accessible cycling adventure in Anchorage.
16
riders
15.6km
00:38
60m
60m
The Chester Creek Trail offers a wonderfully accessible road cycling experience, perfect for a leisurely spin. This easy, paved multi-use path stretches for 9.7 miles (15.6 km) with a minimal 184 feet (56 metres) of elevation gain, making it suitable for all ages and skill levels. You'll glide past serene wooded areas, enjoy numerous water views along Chester Creek, and even cross impressive restored railroad trestles, all while completing the route in about 37 minutes.
When planning your visit, remember that the Chester Creek Trail is a popular spot, so parking can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Some access points might involve navigating busy roads, so be prepared for that. As a multi-use trail, you'll be sharing the path with walkers and runners, making it a great family-friendly option but also requiring cyclists to be attentive and courteous.
This trail is more than just a pleasant ride; it's a significant rail-trail built on the Civil War-era Chester Creek Branch line of the Pennsylvania Railroad. It's also a key part of the larger Circuit Trails network, with ongoing plans for extensions and improvements like benches and a bike repair station. The trail's historical context and its role in regional connectivity add an extra layer of interest to your ride.
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Elevation 0 m
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Saturday 13 June
18°C
10°C
32 %
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Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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