The Tame, The Wild, The Beautiful

Those words describe the trails of Anchorage. The City of Anchorage has 10,946 acres of dedicated green space which includes over 290 miles of trails and greenbelts.

Anchorage citizens count their award-winning trail system as the city's best asset in regard to recreation.

I think the love of the outdoors and the beauty that only Alaska can provide are the foremost reasons why many have chosen to make Alaska their home state.

The trails of Anchorage allow visitors and residents alike to enjoy wildlife and nature amid scenic splendor. Our trails wind through the city's urban core, along the coastline and even extend up through the foothills of Chugach State Park.

Many of Anchorage's trails offer stunning views of the coast, ocean and mountains. Several are multi-use trails which range from walking and roller blading to dog mushing and skiing. Whether you enjoy running, hiking, biking or horseback riding, there is a trail for you.

The trails provide one of the best ways to experience the beauty of the wildflowers as well as the wildlife. You can take a leisurely stroll or go on an all day hike to the wilderness' edge at the Chugach State Park.

If you have not yet taken advantage of our trail system, you have missed one of the best parts of our city. I would like to highlight just a few of our many trails

Chugach State Park offers several hiking trails. The wildlife offers many "Kodak moments" and the views are breath-taking.

Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is the most popular trail in the city, especially for bikers. The trail follows 11 miles of coastline. You can see Beluga whales, moose and beautiful wildflowers. Some of the scenic views to be enjoyed include the Port of Anchorage, Cook Inlet and magnificent mountain ranges. This trail becomes more remote as you travel south and joins several parks. If that is not enough to draw you, then maybe close encounters with jets will. The trail also skirts the Anchorage International Airport.

Campbell Creek Trail is a wonder for viewing our wildlife and experiencing salmon fishing. You may meet a brown bear or a moose or you may see a coyote or a lynx. So, be sure to be "wildlife wise" when experiencing this trail and others in and around Anchorage. You can also visit the Campbell Creek Science center and enjoy many varieties of waterfowl at Taku Lake. If you like quaint wooden bridges, this is the trail for you.

I hope I have made you green with envy and planted a seed of desire to see and experience Anchorage and all of its magnificent trails. Just don't be surprised if you find you don't want to go home. You just may want to make Alaska real estate your dream home.

To learn more about Anchorage Trails
Anchorage Parks & Trails
Anchorage Trail System
Anchorage Area Hiking
Alaska Hike
Anchorage Running Club
Iditarod Official Site
Iditarod National Historic Trail