Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

If you've got a free afternoon in Anchorage, this is where I'd send you. The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is one of my favorite places to ride because it gives you a completely different perspective of Alaska's largest city. In just a few miles you'll leave downtown behind and find yourself riding along the shoreline of Cook Inlet with mountain views, fresh ocean air, and a good chance of seeing wildlife.

Visitors are often surprised by how much nature surrounds Anchorage. The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail stretches approximately 11 miles from downtown Anchorage to Kincaid Park, winding through forests, marshes, and scenic overlooks that make it easy to forget you're still in the city. Whether you're visiting Alaska for the first time or simply looking for a relaxing afternoon outdoors, this trail is one of the best ways to experience Anchorage like a local.

I've ridden this trail many times over the years, and every ride is a little different. Sometimes you'll spot a moose browsing beside the trail, watch bald eagles soaring overhead, or stop to admire the views across Cook Inlet toward the Alaska Range. On exceptionally clear days, you may even catch a glimpse of Denali rising above the horizon.

Why This Trail Is One of Anchorage's Best Adventures

One of the things I enjoy most about the Coastal Trail is that it's accessible to almost everyone. The paved trail is maintained, mostly gentle, and suitable for riders of all experience levels. You don't need to be an experienced cyclist to enjoy it. Families, casual riders, photographers, birdwatchers, and serious cyclists all share the trail throughout the summer.

Unlike many scenic drives, riding a bike lets you slow down and truly appreciate the surroundings. You'll hear the waves along the shoreline, smell the spruce forest after a summer rain, and notice wildlife that many people miss from the window of a car. There are plenty of places to stop for photos, take a break, or simply enjoy the incredible views.

If you're only in Anchorage for a day or two, this is one experience I always recommend. It captures everything that makes our city unique—ocean, mountains, wildlife, and wide-open scenery—all within an easy ride from downtown.

What You'll See Along the Way

One of the things I enjoy most about the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is that no two rides feel exactly the same. The scenery changes as you make your way west from downtown, and there are plenty of places worth stopping to take in the view. Whether you're interested in wildlife, local history, or simply enjoying the ride, here's what you can expect along the way.

Downtown Trailhead - Elderberry Park

Most people get on the trail below the Captain Cook Hotel at Elderberry Park, making it one of Anchorage's easiest outdoor adventures to enjoy without a car. You'll immediately leave the city streets behind and ride along the shoreline. It's a great reminder that in Anchorage, nature is never very far away.

Westchester Lagoon - 1.2 Miles

Westchester Lagoon is one of my favorite places to slow down for a few minutes. During the summer you'll often see ducks, geese, gulls, and a variety of other birds enjoying the wetlands. Locals gather here to walk, paddle, fish, or simply relax by the water.

Westchester Lagoon Anchorage

Its just 1.2 miles from Elderberry Park in Downtown to Westchester Lagoon. If you don't want to bike the entire 11 miles to Kincaid Park, this is a wonderful walk along the water and a great great place to stop, have a picnic, rest in the sun and relax.

Earthquake Park - 4.1 Miles

You need a rest anyway, so stop in and read the interpretive signs stories of Anchorage's 1964 Earthquake. It's a fascinating reminder of Alaska's powerful natural forces and well worth taking a few moments to explore.

Point Woronzof - 5.6 Miles

Point Woronzof is where we hang out on the beach in Anchorage. We don't go in the water, but walking along the beach is really fun. On a clear day you'll get views across Cook Inlet toward the Alaska Range, and if the weather cooperates, you may even catch a glimpse of Denali on the distant horizon. It's also one of the coolest places to watch large jets landing at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, often climbing almost directly overhead.

Kincaid Park - 11 Miles

The paved trail ends in Kincaid Park, one of Anchorage's most popular outdoor recreation areas. If you've still got plenty of energy, you'll find additional hiking and biking trails winding through the forest. Or simply take a few minutes to enjoy the beach and soak in the scenery before turning around for the ride back downtown.

More Than Just a Bike Ride

One of the reasons I recommend this trail to visitors is that it offers a little bit of everything that makes Anchorage special. In just a few hours, you'll experience coastal scenery, spruce forests, mountain views, wildlife, and local history—all without ever leaving the city.

Take your time, stop often, and don't worry about setting any speed records. This is one ride that's best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. The memories you make along the way will last much longer than the miles on your bike computer.

Trail Safety & Wildlife Awareness

One of the best parts of riding the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is the opportunity to see Alaska's wildlife. Moose are common along the trail, especially during the early morning and evening hours, and spotting one is often a highlight of the ride. While they usually ignore people, it's important to remember that they are large, powerful wild animals.

If you come across a moose on or near the trail:

Slow down and stop well before you reach the animal.
Give the moose plenty of space. Never try to ride past a moose if it blocks the trail.
Do not approach for a photograph or selfie. Use your camera's zoom instead.
Watch the moose's behavior. If it lays its ears back, raises the hair on its shoulders, or begins walking toward you, back away immediately and give it more room.
Wait patiently. Most moose will move away on their own after a few minutes.
If you're riding with children, keep everyone together and quiet.

Remember, moose may appear calm, but they can run much faster than people and bicycles. Giving them plenty of room is the safest choice for both you and the animal.

Paul's Local Tip

"I've seen moose on this trail many times over the years. They're incredible animals to watch, but I always give them the respect they deserve. If a moose is standing on the trail, I simply stop, enjoy the moment, and wait for it to move along. There's no need to rush—seeing a wild moose is part of what makes riding the Coastal Trail such a uniquely Alaskan experience."

Where to Rent a Bike

Don't have a bike? No problem. There are several excellent rental shops in downtown Anchorage, and both are just minutes from the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail.

Pablo's Bicycle Rentals

Located at 415 L Street, Pablo's is only about a block from the Coastal Trail and offers comfort bikes, e-bikes, mountain bikes, and equipment for riders of all ages. Helmets, locks, and trail advice are available, making it a great choice for first-time visitors.

Downtown Bicycle Rental

Located at 333 West 4th Avenue, this long-established Anchorage bike shop has one of Alaska's largest rental fleets, including hybrid bikes, e-bikes, mountain bikes, children's bikes, and trailers. It's an easy ride from downtown hotels to the Coastal Trail.

Paul's Planning Tips

Reserve your bike a day in advance during summer.
Watch for moose, especially in the morning and evening.
Carry Bear Spray. You may not need it, but if you do need it, you will be happy you have it.
Bring a water bottle—Only at the end of the ride are there bathrooms and fresh water in Kincaid Park.
Pack a light jacket. Even on warm days, Cook Inlet can bring cool breezes.
Don't forget your camera—the views are some of the best in Anchorage.

See You on the Trail

Whether you're visiting Anchorage for a weekend or beginning the adventure of a lifetime, I hope you'll make time to ride the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. It's one of those places that reminds me why I love living in Alaska.

Take your time, enjoy the scenery, watch for wildlife, and don't forget your camera. If you happen to see me out on the trail, be sure to say hello.

I'll see you on the trail.

— Paul