Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

The Basics

The 11-mile-long (18 kilometer) trail is entirely paved and runs from Second Avenue in downtown Anchorage to Kincaid Park. Along the way you'll enjoy excellent views of downtown Anchorage, the Chugach Mountains, and Denali. The trail is easily picked up from several points in the city, so you can complete any segment and hike as little or much of the trail as you have the energy for. To complete the trail in less than a day, rent a bicycle in town or join a guided bike tour.

Things to Know Before You Go

• You're likely to meet wild animals along the way, especially along the southern part of the trail: be respectful of the environment and don't approach wildlife.

• Stay away from the mudflats, which can be dangerous.

• Bring plenty of water, snacks, and (in summer) sunscreen.

How to Get There

You can access the trail at the extreme northeast end of West Second Ave, close to the railroad depot, at the extreme southwest end at Kincaid Chalet, and at several points in between. Parking is available in the parks along the Coastal Trail, including Elderberry Park, Earthquake Park, and Kincaid Park.

When to Get There

During summer, the trail is used by walkers, runners, and cyclists, while in the winter it is used primarily for cross-country skiing. If you’re visiting in summer, when Anchorage gets 22 hours of daylight, a nighttime visit under the glow of the midnight sun can feel particularly atmospheric.

Earthquake Park

Lying along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, Earthquake Park offers insights into a pivotal moment in local history. In 1964, a 9.2 magnitude earthquake shook the entire state of Alaska—it was the largest quake ever recorded in North America. The park’s rippling hills and steep bluff reveal how the quake altered Anchorage’s landscapes, while interpretive displays explain the geological forces at play that day, and the quake’s lasting effect on the area.