The most popular portion of the 22-mile Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, named after Alaska's seventh governor, is the 11-mile stretch that winds along Knik Arm and Cook Inlet between Kincaid Park and downtown Anchorage. The paved, relatively flat terrain accommodates walkers of all abilities and offers sweeping mountain, water and city views. If you want to cover more ground, consider renting a bike from nearby Pablo's Bicycle Rentals.
Must see and must do along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
- Westchester Lagoon: Trails for biking, running, snowshoeing and skiing; ice skating on the Lagoon in the winter; a playground and plenty of wide open space, all against the backdrop of Anchorage's surrounding mountain ranges and Cook Inlet.
- Earthquake Park: An 8.6 magnitude earthquake in 1964 caused a two-mile slide at Earthquake Park that swallowed entire neighborhoods and claimed many lives. The quake caused a divide in the adjacent bluffs is still visible from the park today.
- Point Woronzoff Park: This 191.7 acre park offers breathtaking views of Cook Inlet, Mount Susitna and Sleeping Lady. Be on the lookout for whales passing through the inlet, and watch jets take off and land from the nearby Ted Stevens International Airport.
Best and worst times to visit the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
Any time of year is a good time to visit the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. Just make sure to dress appropriately for the weather, which means layers, even in spring and summer. The weather can change quickly in Anchorage, so you don't want to be caught unprepared.
Access to the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
The trail begins near the Anchorage railroad depot, located 900 West 2nd Avenue, and ends at the Kincaid Chalet at Kincaid Park, with several access points in between, including Westchester Lagoon, Earthquake Park and Elderberry Park.
Wildlife along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
You have an excellent chance of seeing some of Anchorage's wildlife as you make your way along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. Moose are predominant, especially in the portion of the trail that cuts through Kincaid Park, but you may also be able to see beluga whales, bears and bald eagles.
Insider tip for Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
Don't step foot on the trail in summer without bug repellant. Mosquitoes and "no see-ums", tiny gnat-like bugs, are rampant.
Author's bio: Amy Newman has lived in Alaska for 13 years, the past six in Anchorage. She has written about Alaska travel for regional and national publication.