2023 Alaska Winter Activity Guide

from 2025 Alaska Winter Activity Guide

2023 Alaska Winter Activity Guide

WALKS IN A SHORT DRIVE: GUIDED WALKS:

24 TONY KNOWLES COASTAL TRAIL

This 11-mile trail skirts the edge of town along the coast of the Knik Arm. On a clear day, you’ll enjoy views of Mt. Denali in the distance and Sleeping Lady across the water. See massive chunks of ice left behind when the tide retreats, look for moose bedded down in the alders, and check out locals biking, skiing, walking, and running. There are two access points from downtown: one at the corner of H & 2nd and one at Elderberry Park (1297 W. 5th Ave.). Walk as far as you like and turn back.

WESTCHESTER LAGOON TO

CHESTER CREEK TRAIL Park at Westchester Lagoon and head west (toward the water), where you’ll join the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail; or go east (toward the mountains) and follow the Chester Creek Trail, which winds through some of Anchorage’s older neighborhoods. You’ll likely see skiers and fat bikers. The trail is 4 miles long and ends at Goose Lake Park, near the University of Alaska Anchorage. 1824 W. 15th Ave., Anchorage

TURNAGAIN ARM TRAIL

This trail 20 minutes from downtown Anchorage parallels the Seward Highway along Turnagain Arm. In winter, you get exceptional views of the water and mountains because your view is not obstructed by foliage. The trail is 9.5 miles one-way, but it’s perfect for a short in and out hike. Generally there is hard packed snow (or ice, depending on conditions so bring your ice cleats). This is one of the first trails to melt in spring because it is south facing. Park at the Potter Trailhead at Mile 115 Seward Highway. 20 mins from Downtown. $5 parking.

EAGLE RIVER NATURE CENTER

A 45-minute drive from downtown Anchorage, the center features a walking path that winds through forested areas in a beautiful valley. Trails aren’t cleared, so after a fresh snow, you’ll be making tracks! The center hosts guided walks and programs from time to time; just call and ask. The most popular short walk is the ¾-mile Rodak Nature Trail. 32750 Eagle River Rd., Eagle River; 907-694-2108

WINNER CREEK TRAIL

The trailhead to this popular route is located just behind Alyeska Resort in Girdwood. After a snowfall it becomes a gorgeous winter wonderland. It’s a 45-minute drive from Anchorage.

17 Go Hike Alaska (907-444-9008) offers guided winter adventures for all abilities in nearby Chugach State Park. Walk to a frozen waterfall through a winter wonderland (keep an eye out for wildlife like moose, snowshoe hare, red fox, and porcupine) or try snowshoeing on the alpine slopes above Anchorage. To up the adventure factor, opt for a heli-snowshoeing trip that combines fabulous winter flightseeing with backcountry snowshoeing.