The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
Anchorage is surrounded on three sides by the water and on one side by the Chugach Mountain Range. The view of the Cook Inlet is best enjoyed on a hike or bike ride on 11-mile long Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. The trail can be accessed at several points in downtown Anchorage, in midtown, at Earthquake Park and at its end at Kincaid Park.
The beginning of the trail is at the West end of 2nd Avenue, just blocks from the down town hotels (Take E street or Christianson down to 2nd avenue and turn Left or West). Another easy access spot is off of L & 5ths streets just West of the Captain Cook Hotel. The Copper Whale in on the same corner offers bike rentals.
The trail, although in the city, is completely apart from it as well. You immediately feel as if you are in the wilderness. In fact, you should always be on the look out for moose on the trail. Highlights along the trail include The Oscar Anderson House at Elderberry Park, Westchester Lagoon, Earthquake Park, and the incredible views all along the way.
This trail is great for walking, running and biking in the summer or winter and, also in the winter, for Nordic Skiing. Get out and enjoy the city wilderness!
