Best Walking Trails & Routes in Anchorage

Well established trail system. Very popular, a part of the coastal trail that splits off around the lagoon. In the winter, people ice skate on the lagoon, run and walk the trails.

This trail goes along the edge of the UAA campus, past Goose Lake and through beautiful birch and spruce forest.

Trail head is by the gathering space. Drop down on the trail, follow to the bridge and follow the signs guiding towards the Campbell airstrip trail. Eventually, you’ll come to the opening of the airstrip. Nice trail along the north side of the runway taking you to the end. Views of the Chugach are gorgeous. Enjoy!

4.02 mile walk down 4th Avenue to the Coastal Trail will start and end in downtown Anchorage

Begins with a steady, slow incline. Areas of the trail are narrow, with growth on either side as you walk along the valley. Aroind the halfway point, the trail opens up, and you begin your descent. Mountain goats, Dall Sheep and Moose may be found along the journey, up on the mountain sides. Erratics are everywhere. Rabbit lake is at the base of The Suicides. Breathtaking, challenging, well used trail.

Popular trail, beginning with switchbacks, opening to a saddle to Flattop and Peak 2. Spectacular views of Wolverine bowl through the saddle. Trail up to flattop is well defined. At the summit, you’ll find rock windbreaks, a flag, and incredible views of Anchorage, and the surrounding area. Enjoy!

Beginning at Moose flats, on the left side of Portage Rd, the trail is well marked and well maintained. It’s a mix of bridges, wooden walkways, some cement pads, well groomed gravel. Woods on either side of you, but runs along the road for the most part. Beautiful views of glaciers, mountains, forest and wildlife. Ends at Portage lake, then return to the beginning! However, there are several turn outs on the right side of the road as you go along from which you can start, which will shorten the length of your hike. Safety: Plan for weather, bear and other wildlife. Bring water.

There is a loop, and you can choose which way to begin- or an out and back of whichever side. I chose to begin on the path to the right at the trailhead. It’s the shorter, steeper approach. There are switchbacks, or you can take the trail up the middle. Well established trails/run off areas. Seemingly endless views of Alaska, Chugach, Talkeetna Ranges- even Denali poked its head out of the clouds for a moment! After summiting, take the approach towards blacktail, but drop down instead of crossing the saddle. Trail takes you down, then go right on the wider trail that crosses- you’ll do a loop which passes by an old homestead then drops to the parking lot. Endless views. Beautiful! Be bear aware, pack spray, hike in groups and make noise. Have fun!