4.7
(9542)
17,719
riders
Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
02:07
34.0km
210m
Cycling
The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail offers a dynamic touring cycling experience, transitioning from urban Anchorage views to continuous coastal vistas along Knik Arm and Cook Inlet. You'll pedal past the serene Westchester Lagoon, through dense spruce and birch forests, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Chugach Mountains and Mount Susitna. The paved surface is mostly smooth, but be prepared for some significant climbs, especially as you approach Kincaid Park, which adds a challenging element to the ride.
Planning your ride on this 21.1-mile (34.0 km) route, which typically takes 2 hours and 7 minutes, is straightforward. Bike rentals are easy to find in downtown Anchorage, a popular starting point. While the trail itself doesn't have shops, Kincaid Park at the southern end provides restrooms and vending machines. The trail is open year-round, but for the best experience with clear views and comfortable temperatures, consider cycling during the warmer months.
This difficult route is renowned for its abundant wildlife; moose sightings are common, and you might even spot bald eagles or beluga whales. The trail also passes through Earthquake Park, offering a glimpse into Alaska's seismic history. It's a key part of Anchorage's larger "Moose Loop" trail network, providing excellent connectivity for longer adventures.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Tips
Cycling is not permitted along parts of this route
After 15.1 km for 291 m
After 15.5 km for 291 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
671 m
Elderberry Park
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
2.16 km
Westchester Lagoon
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
5.89 km
Earthquake Park
Highlight • Natural Monument
Earthquake Park also has some singletrack mountain bike trails, and a short loop of interpretive walking trail. The walking trail really isn't good for running (it's too narrow, overgrown, and often slippery), and it's best for everybody if runners stay off the mountain bike trails here.
Tip by
6.59 km
Airport Park (Earthquake Park)
Highlight • Viewpoint
The quake began on March 27, 1964 at 5:36 p.m. and shook the earth for about four and a half minutes. The epicenter was about 120 kilometers southeast of Anchorage in Prince William Sound. The quake was measured with a value of 9.2 Mw on the moment magnitude scale. A large part of Anchorage was completely destroyed by the quake. The tsunami waves triggered by the quake are said to have reached a maximum height of 67 meters. Only because of the relatively sparsely populated areas, the number of victims, compared to other large earthquakes, turned out to be "low" at 169.
In the Earthquake Park, information boards are used to inform about the quake of 1964, also known as the Good Friday quake or the Great Alaska quake.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
8.44 km
Point Woronzof
Highlight • Viewpoint
However, locals still love coming here to walk, skip stones, and watch big jets take off and land from the nearby Anchorage International Airport. During the winter, this is a very popular spot for watching the northern lights.
Tip by
15.0 km
Tony Knowles Coastal Trail (beach access)
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
15.4 km
Kincaid Beach
Highlight • Beach
Please be careful, though. Alaska has extreme tidal differentials, and when the tide is out, the mudflats it uncovers look like they might be fun to walk on. But they turn to quicksand as the cold water rushes back in, and people have drowned when they were stuck in the mud. Play it safe and stay off the mud entirely.
Tip by
16.3 km
Kincaid Park Hill
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
Speaking of moose, sightings are very common here. Please make sure to give them lots of space.
Tip by
17.4 km
Kincaid Chalet
Highlight • Mountain Hut
Tip by
34.0 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
32.9 km
651 m
190 m
171 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
24.1 km
8.97 km
602 m
347 m
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Elevation
Highest point (70 m)
Lowest point (0 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Tuesday 14 July
13°C
11°C
87 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park to access the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail?
There are multiple access points with parking available along the trail. You can find convenient parking downtown or at various points further south, such as near Earthquake Park or Kincaid Chalet at the southern end.
Is the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail dog-friendly?
Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain the trail's cleanliness for all users.
What is the best time of year to cycle this trail?
The trail is accessible year-round. For cycling, the warmer months from late spring through early fall (May to September) are ideal, offering pleasant weather and clear paths. In winter, it's popular for cross-country skiing and fat-tire biking.
Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to use the trail?
No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to use the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. It is a public trail open for everyone to enjoy.
What is the terrain like on the trail?
The trail features a smooth, paved surface designed for two-way traffic. While much of it is relatively flat, especially the northern half from downtown, there are rolling elevation changes. Towards the southern end, particularly approaching Earthquake Park, Point Woronzof, and Kincaid Park Hill, you'll encounter three notable hills, including a significant incline up to Kincaid Park.
What landmarks and viewpoints can I see along the trail?
You'll find numerous points of interest. Highlights include Elderberry Park, Westchester Lagoon (great for birdwatching), Earthquake Park with its interpretive signage, and scenic overlooks like Airport Park (Earthquake Park) and Point Woronzof. The trail also offers beach access at Tony Knowles Coastal Trail (beach access) and leads to Kincaid Beach and Kincaid Chalet.
What kind of wildlife might I see on the trail?
Wildlife sightings are common. Keep an eye out for moose and bald eagles, which are frequently observed. On clear days, you might even spot beluga whales in Cook Inlet.
Does the trail connect to other routes in Anchorage?
Yes, the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is a central part of Anchorage's extensive trail system. It connects downtown Anchorage to Kincaid Park and forms part of the longer 32-mile Moose Loop route. It also intersects with sections of the Chester Creek Trail and the Ship Creek Trail.
Are bike rentals available near the trailhead?
Yes, bicycle rentals are readily available in downtown Anchorage, making it convenient for visitors to access the northern end of the trail and begin their ride.
Is the trail suitable for families and beginners?
Absolutely. The paved surface and mostly gentle grades make it accessible for most ages and abilities. While there are some hills towards the southern end that present a moderate challenge, many sections are ideal for a leisurely family ride or for beginners.
What's the best strategy for cycling the southern, hillier section of the trail?
If you prefer an easier ride, consider starting at the southern end near Kincaid Chalet and cycling north. This way, you'll tackle the most significant climb up to Kincaid Park at the beginning, and the rest of your ride will be generally flatter or downhill towards downtown. Alternatively, an e-bike can make the hills much more manageable.
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