If you plan to travel in or around the Anchorage area, then we recommend that you check out the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. This 11-mile multi-use trail begins in downtown Anchorage and extends along the scenic coastline. Because this trail is paved and fairly flat, you can enjoy biking, walking, rollerblading, jogging, and a variety of other outdoor recreational activities.
A few of the major views you can enjoy from the trail include the Chugach mountain range, the Sleeping Lady Mountain, Earthquake Park, and the Cook Inlet—all sights you will want to take in during your Alaskan vacation. You will also want to keep your eyes open for some local wildlife, including a variety of birds, moose, small mammals, beluga whales, and more. Some people have even seen a bear or two on occasion! (As with any wildlife encounter, be sure to exercise extreme caution and keep your distance when spotting any wildlife.)
The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail gives you the best combined views of downtown Anchorage along with the scenic coast and mountains. The trail also ends in Kincaid Park, where you can take advantage of other trail systems from that point. However, you will want to note that many of the trails that depart from Kincaid Park are not paved, so you will want to plan your hike accordingly.
Before you head out on any Alaska trail, including the Tony Knowles Coastal trail in Anchorage, be sure to prepare ahead. Here are a few important trail tips:
- Know your route before you head out on the trail. Get ahold of a map and plan your trek.
- Bring your own drinking water or a filter with you. Also, take along a few snacks in case your hike takes longer than planned.
- Pack for changing weather, as the Alaska weather can throw you a loop when you least expect it.
- Bring a friend or at least let a friend know where you plan to hike and approximately how long you will be out.
- Stay on the trail to respect the natural surroundings and minimize the chance of getting lost.
Whether you plan to stay in an AK motorhome or at a local hotel, the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is easily accessible by all Anchorage visitors. The downtown access to the trail is located near the railroad depot on the northeast end of West 2nd Avenue in downtown Anchorage. As previously mentioned, the other trailhead is located in southern Anchorage at Kincaid Chalet; plus, you can access the trail at many other points in between the two trailheads.
If you are looking for a place to stay in your motorhome rental in Alaska near the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, then we recommend that you check out the Centennial Campground off of Glenn Highway. This campground is only 15 minutes from the downtown area and has over 100 camping sites, including 6 drive-thru sites perfect for RVs. The cost is only $25 a night, and campers are free to use the facility’s dump station without additional charges.
Like many of the trails in or around the Anchorage area, you are bound to enjoy the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. Many people who live in Anchorage consider this trail one of their favorite local pastimes, and we are sure you will enjoy it too. Because the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is considered an easy hike, it should be an activity in which everyone in your party can participate.
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