The best hikes from bus stations in Far North Bicentennial Park
4.7
(65)
1,498
hikers
26
hikes
Hiking in Far North Bicentennial Park offers access to a vast wilderness area within Anchorage, Alaska. The park encompasses approximately 4,000 acres, featuring diverse landscapes including thick woodlands of spruce and birch, open tundra, and areas alongside creeks and small lakes like Campbell Creek. Its terrain provides a mix of flat paths and rugged sections with elevation gain, offering views of Anchorage and Cook Inlet. This extensive multi-use trail system caters to various hiking preferences, including those accessible via publicโฆ
Last updated: July 23, 2026
4
hikers
4.01km
01:01
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
18
hikers
21.9km
05:39
120m
120m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
7
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
It's hard not to love this paved, multi-use trail that runs east-west through a greenbelt that transects almost all of Anchorage. It also ties into Goose Lake Park and the wider Anchorage trail system.
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You may see a lot of happy, loose dogs around here, because nowadays University Lake is an off-leash dog park. It's still a lovely green space bordering on some of the city's more popular commuter and leisure trails, though.
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Goose Lake has an actual sand beach, which makes it a popular place for swimming. It also has a lot of geese... which makes it a popular place for swimmer's itch, so make sure you shower quickly after swimming here. There's a lot of parking here, which means it's a great place to start or end your ride on the nearby paved trails.
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This marks one of the larger interpretive displays within Earthquake Park, a parcel of land that showcases the effects of the magnitude 9.2 earthquake that struck Alaska in 1964. It's well worth pulling off the main trail to take a look or, if you're coming from the east, catch your breath from the short but steep hill leading up to this point.
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Elderberry Park has some modest playground equipment and a few benches with views of the water and the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail that passes quite nearby. It's a great place for a break but not the best for starting or ending your ride, as it takes some luck to find parking nearby.
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The sand beach on this side of Goose Lake is a popular swimming spot during the summer (despite the presence of stubborn swimmer's itch). It's also the perfect staging spot for a run, with lots of parking so you can usually find a spot, except on very sunny weekend days.
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This small, paved "pavilion" is part of Earthquake Park, which showcases the effects of the magnitude 9.2 earthquake that struck Alaska in 1964. One of the steepest hills on the paved Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is also right here, although it is mercifully short... sort of. Earthquake Park also has some singletrack mountain bike trails, and a short loop of interpretive walking trail. The walking trail really isn't good for running (it's too narrow, overgrown, and often slippery), and it's best for everybody if runners stay off the mountain bike trails here.
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This is a sweet little park with a bit of playground equipment, some benches, and a view over the water. The paved Tony Knowles Coastal Trail also passes nearby as it traverses the only really major hill between Westchester Lagoon and the furthest downtown access point. If you're headed north on the Coastal Trail past Elderberry Park you'll find yourself chugging up a very steep hill; and of course, heading south leaves you to more or less freewheel it on the downhill.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many bus station hiking trails are available in Far North Bicentennial Park?
There are over 20 routes in Far North Bicentennial Park that are easily accessible from bus stations, offering a convenient way to explore the park's diverse landscapes.
What is the general difficulty level of bus station accessible hikes in Far North Bicentennial Park?
The majority of bus station accessible hikes in Far North Bicentennial Park are rated as easy, with a few moderate options. There are no difficult routes in this selection, making them suitable for a wide range of hikers.
Are there any family-friendly bus station hikes in Far North Bicentennial Park?
Yes, many of the trails are family-friendly. For an easy and scenic option, consider the University Lake loop from University of Alaska Anchorage, which offers pleasant views and a relatively flat terrain suitable for all ages.
Can I bring my dog on these bus station accessible trails?
Far North Bicentennial Park is generally dog-friendly. The North Gaseline Trail, though not directly listed as a bus station route here, is designated as an off-leash corridor within the park. Always ensure your dog is under control and check specific trail regulations for any restrictions. The Chester Creek Trail โ Goose Lake Park loop is a good option for a walk with your canine companion.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see on these hikes?
These trails offer a mix of landscapes typical of Far North Bicentennial Park, including thick woodlands of spruce and birch, open tundra, and areas alongside creeks and small lakes. You'll experience the genuine wilderness character of Alaska close to the city.
Are there any circular routes accessible from bus stations?
Yes, several routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point, which is convenient when relying on public transport. Examples include the University Lake loop trail loop and the Steam Locomotive No. 556 loop from Anchorage.
What is the best time of year to hike these trails?
Far North Bicentennial Park offers year-round beauty. Summer provides vibrant wildflowers and lush greenery, while autumn brings golden hues. Winter transforms the park into a snow-dusted wonderland, suitable for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on many trails. Always check current conditions before heading out.
What wildlife might I encounter on these trails?
The park is a haven for wildlife. Hikers frequently spot moose, and black bears and brown bears are also common, especially along trails near Campbell Creek. Bald eagles, lynx, and foxes are occasionally seen. Always be bear aware and carry bear spray.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Far North Bicentennial Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from 72 ratings. Reviewers often praise the park's accessibility combined with its wild character, extensive trail network, and diverse natural beauty, offering a true Alaskan outdoor experience close to Anchorage.
Are there any longer, more challenging bus station accessible hikes?
For a moderate challenge, consider the Westchester Lagoon loop from Sullivan Arena. This route covers nearly 10 kilometers and offers a good workout while still being easily reachable by bus.
Are there any specific viewpoints or natural features to look out for?
While specific viewpoints vary by trail, the park generally offers scenic views of Campbell Creek, small lakes, and dense forests. On clear days, some higher points within the park, like those along the Spencer Loop (not directly listed here but part of the park), can offer impressive views of Anchorage, Cook Inlet, and even Denali.
Most popular routes in Far North Bicentennial Park
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