From captivating coastal trails to epic sweeping landscapes, here at Alaska Trail Guides we know the best way to experience the wonderful wilderness of Alaska is from the saddle. So, whether you prefer a serene cycle by the sea or the thrill of biking rugged mountain trails, read on to discover our top 7 picks for your next adventure!
Coast Along the Breathtaking Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
There’s no better place to explore the diverse terrain of Alaska’s largest city than the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. Starting from Second Avenue in downtown Anchorage and ending in Kincaid Park, this breezy 11-mile-long coastal path is considered one of the most scenic in the US, and perfect for those wanting an easy-to-intermediate ride.
Fringed by forest along the Cook Inlet, you’ll enjoy views of downtown Anchorage, the Chugach Mountains, Mount Susitna, Fire Island, and Mount Denali (the highest mountain in North America).
If oceanside cycling sounds up your street, check out our Anchorage Coastal Cruise Bike Tour – you might even see moose or bears along the way!
Enjoy Off-Road Mountain Biking in Kincaid Park
With 25 miles of singletrack ranging from beginner to expert, this is sure to be a hit for casual and serious riders alike.
Kincaid Park is home to some of the most premier mountain biking Alaska offers. The park has a network of trails that provide a range of difficulty levels, from beginner to advanced. Whether looking for fun-flowing singletrack, banks, and berms, or technical sections, you will find what you are looking for. There are even challenging hill climbs and thrilling descents!
Don’t forget to keep an eye out for moose, lynx, bears, and bald eagles.
With so many options, it can be hard to know which trail’s right for you, but our expert guides are on hand to help.
Ride Through the Historic Trade Route in the Chugach National Forest
Another great choice for off-road aficionados is the Johnson Pass Trail in Chugach National Forest. The perfect length for a full-day ride, this well-marked trail meanders through the Kenai Mountains and is a treat for mountain bikers at any time of year.
A breathaking hour and a half drive from Anchorage and then you are immersed in the wilderness, enjoying stunning views of forgotten forests, captivating flower-filled meadows, serene lakes and monumental mountains.
Johnson Pass Trail is the most popular cross-country mountain biking destination in South Central Alaska. The trail is approximately 23 miles long and follows a historic trade route used by early settlers to cross the Kenai Peninsula. The trail is well-maintained and offers a mix of technical sections, steep climbs, and thrilling descents. This is a bucket list ride for any avid adventurous mountain biker.
Test your Endurance with a Ride on the Denali Park Road
At 92 miles long, Denali Park Road is the only way to get into Denali National Park – the huge and heavenly haven that Alaska’s ‘Big 5’ (caribou, moose, wolf, bear and Dall sheep), call home.
Expect long, steady climbs and gripping downhills as you navigate the sprawling forest, alpine terrain and snow-covered mountains that epitomise the authentic Alaskan wilderness.
Public vehicle access is restricted past mile 15 between mid-May and mid-September, so this is a great place to start. And for a mid-ride rest, why not stop off at the Eielson Visitor Center at mile 66 on Denali Park Road? With restrooms, fresh water access, and rangers on hand, it’s the perfect place to take a load off while enjoying some of the best views of Denali from an elevation of 3,300 feet.
Enjoy Picturesque Panorama on the Bird to Gird Pathway
With spectacular views of the ocean, mountains, glaciers and even beluga whales – biking the Girdwood to Bird Pathway is a must-do for any visiting cyclist.
The Bird-to-Gird bike path extends 13 miles from Girdwood along the Turnagain Arm, offering stunning mountain, ocean, and glacier views. The path is paved with gently rolling hills, making it accessible to cyclists of all skill levels. It’s an excellent option for those who want to be immersed in and enjoy the area’s beauty.
Along the way, cyclists will pass through several viewpoints, including the Bird Point Scenic Overlook, where you may see beluga whales and the ever-changing and forceful tides. After your ride, there are several great lunch spots in Girdwood to refuel, whether you are looking for an excellent place for a cold beer or lunch with a view.
Experience the Thrills and History of the Perseverance Trail
Perseverance Trail in Juneau is a top pick for mountain biking with both visitors and locals alike. It’s a historic and breathtaking trail accessible right from downtown Juneau. This 6.5-mile trail was originally a footpath for indigenous people and later became one of the first “roads” in Alaska.
Climb back into the mountains through this deep-cut valley following Gold Creek. You will be following the path of gold miners, evidence of their work can be seen in the Flume on the North side of the valley. There are several waterfalls and informational boards throughout the ride to provide picturesque stops along the way.
Enjoy the Ease of the Ester Dome Trail
The singletrack Ester Dome Trail near Fairbanks is a 6-mile-long, three-part-loop system offering an easy-to-moderate ride. With stunning views of the Ester Dome from the ancient woodlands, the trail is well-maintained and popular among hikers and mountain bikers alike.
During your ride, keep an eye out for the many gray wolves, black and brown bears, mountain goats, foxes, marmots, porcupines, and snowshoe hares who call this wonderful pocket of wilderness home.
Book your next Biking Adventure with Alaska Trail Guides
Now that you’ve seen some of the best biking trails Alaska has to offer, we’d love to help you plan your next trip. With over 30 years’ experience, our expert guides can set you on the right path whatever your preferences and experience level.
Make unforgettable memories on one of our all-inclusive mountain-biking tours from Anchorage or our Anchorage city biking tours — and please get in touch with us if you have any questions.
As a responsible tour provider, sustainability and managing our environmental impact are among our top priorities. To ensure we minimise our environmental footprint wherever we can, we’re dedicated to upholding Leave No Trace guidelines, limiting our fuel and material consumption, recycling any paper, cardboard, glass, and plastic products we use, and donating or repurposing our equipment.
