Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

A full round trip on the trail, which is about 22 miles (35 km) in total, generally takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours for a racebike cyclist, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views. The one-way distance is 11 miles (18 km).

Yes, the trail is generally rated as easy to moderate and is suitable for most cyclists, including beginners. It is entirely paved and largely flat, though there are some manageable inclines, particularly as you approach Kincaid Park at the southern end. Bike rentals are readily available in downtown Anchorage.

The trail is entirely paved, making it ideal for road bikes. It features a smooth surface with some rolling elevation changes and notable inclines, especially towards its southern end. It winds through coastal marshes, forested hills, and past expansive mudflats.

The trail offers abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. It's common to spot moose, bald eagles, and various waterfowl. Beluga whales can sometimes be seen in the View of Cook Inlet, and occasionally, red fox, coyotes, or even bears are sighted. Moose encounters are particularly frequent between Point Woronzof and Kincaid Park.

Cyclists are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the View of Cook Inlet, the majestic Chugach Mountains, and the Anchorage skyline. On clear days, you might even glimpse Denali. Notable points of interest include Westchester Lagoon, Earthquake Park, and Coastal Viewpoint.

The trail is a popular year-round destination. For cycling, the warmer months from late spring through early fall (May to September) offer the most comfortable conditions and best chances for clear views. In winter, it's popular for cross-country skiing and skijoring, but cycling conditions will depend on snow and ice.

The trail runs from downtown Anchorage to Kincaid Park. You can access it from various points, with popular starting locations in downtown Anchorage. Parking is available at several points along the trail, including near Westchester Lagoon and at Kincaid Park. Bike rentals are also available in downtown Anchorage for easy access.

Yes, the trail is designated for non-motorized use and is popular with walkers, runners, and cyclists. Dogs are generally allowed on the trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Please be mindful of other trail users and clean up after your pet.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access and use the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. It is a public trail maintained by the Municipality of Anchorage.

Yes, the trail is a key part of Anchorage's extensive trail network. It connects with other paths, including the Chester Creek Trail, and forms a portion of the longer 32-mile Moose Loop route.

The primary challenge for some cyclists might be the 11-mile one-way distance, making for a 22-mile round trip. While mostly flat, there are some inclines, especially as you approach Kincaid Park, which can add to the workout. However, the paved surface and stunning scenery make it a very rewarding ride.