Top Outdoor Things to Do in Anchorage
Despite it's status as the biggest city in Alaska, Anchorage is truly a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an abundance of activities for all ages and intensity levels. Whether you’re traveling with family, seeking an adrenaline-filled adventure, or looking to unwind in the serene beauty of nature, Anchorage delivers unforgettable experiences year-round.
Summer Outdoor Activities
Family-Friendly
Summer in Anchorage is perfect for families eager to explore the great outdoors. Start your adventure at the Eagle River Nature Center, about 40 minutes north of Anchorage, where well-maintained trails take you through the boreal forest. The trails feature boardwalks and viewing platforms, and the river valley offers stunning mountain views, and high chances of spotting wildlife like moose and beavers. Don’t forget to look up, because there may be a black bear up in the trees! Continue driving further north to Eklutna Lake — a hotspot for paddleboarding, kayaking, hiking, and biking. The turquoise waters of this glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains create a picture-perfect setting. For an outing south of Anchorage, head to Potter Marsh, a bird-watcher’s paradise where you can spot everything from sandhill cranes to Arctic terns. Families will also enjoy visiting the Alaska Zoo, home to an array of native species like musk oxen, wolves, and bears.
Active Adventures
For those seeking an active experience, Anchorage’s vast trail network is one of the city’s best features, making Anchorage a cycling haven. You can tour around the city by following the clearly-marked Moose Loop route, a 32-mile ride along paved paths that connect several parks and greenbelts. Track the ride with an app that shows a map of your route, and you’ll see an outline of a moose head when you’re done. Part of the loop follows the popular Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, and 11-mile paved multi-use trail that connects downtown to Kincaid Park. If you don’t feel up for tackling the whole Moose Loop, take to the Coastal Trail for an out and back ride that suits your activity level. You can easily rent a bike or e-bike downtown and enjoy a day cruising along the scenic coastline and forest.
Chugach State Park offers countless hiking opportunities in the Chugach Mountains on the edge of Anchorage. A popular destination is the Glen Alps Trailhead, where you can access several hiking trails including the flat Powerline Pass and the steep Flattop Mountain Trail. Or, drive south to Girdwood on one of the most beautiful Scenic Byways in Alaska, then hike the North Face Trail at Alyeska Resort. This challenging climb rewards hikers with views of Turnagain Arm and Glacier Valley, and you can enjoy a beverage from the bar and a snack from the deli before taking the Alyeska Tram down for free.
Other Outdoor Activities
If you’re in the mood for a laid-back day outside, Anchorage has plenty to offer. Cast a line at Ship Creek, located downtown, and try to catch a king salmon. For a leisurely game of disk golf, head to courses at Kincaid Park, Russian Jack Springs Park, or Westchester Lagoon. Waterfalls are another great way to unwind. Take a short drive north of town, and walk along Eagle River to Barbara Falls, then continue driving north to Thunderbird Falls, which is a short hike from the parking lot. Both offer tranquil settings for relaxation.
Winter Outdoor Activities
Family-Friendly
During winter months, Anchorage transforms into a winter wonderland. There are many outdoor activities for family fun. Spend the day tubing at the Arctic Valley Tube Park, where laughter echoes as kids and adults zoom down snowy hills. Ice skating at Westchester Lagoon is another family favorite, where you can warm up by a wood fire while enjoying hot chocolate. For a classic winter experience, enjoy sledding at local parks. Another memorable activity that is unique to northern climates is dog sledding. You can book a dog sledding tour with local mushers, and maybe even get to cuddle puppies.
Active Adventures
Winter travelers craving adventure will find no shortage of thrilling activities in Anchorage. Hit the slopes at Arctic Valley Ski Area, Hilltop Ski Area, or Alyeska Resort - which offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding terrain in the state. For something different, try fat biking at Far North Bicentennial Park on winding single-track trails. Anchorage also boasts world-class cross-country skiing trails. You’ll find miles of groomed trails at Kincaid Park, Russian Jack Springs Park, Far North Bicentennial Park, and around the University of Alaska Anchorage campus. For an added thrill, book a guided snowmachine tour to a glacier, or tackle the ice with a day of ice climbing on frozen waterfalls.
Other Outdoor Activities
Even in winter, Anchorage offers ways to unwind in the great outdoors. Treat yourself to a rejuvenating visit to the Alyeska Nordic Spa in Girdwood, where outdoor hot tubs, relaxation pools, and saunas provide the perfect way to relax in the crisp winter air. For a peaceful adventure, strap on snowshoes and explore trails from the Glen Alps Trailhead, where you’ll find stunning views of the Anchorage Bowl and surrounding mountains. If waterfalls captivate you, Barbara Falls and Thunderbird Falls take on an enchanting beauty when frozen, creating a serene winter escape.
No matter the season, Anchorage offers a wealth of outdoor activities that cater to every traveler. There is a saying in Alaska, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad gear.” With the right gear, you can enjoy the outdoors any time of year. From summer hikes to winter spa days, Anchorage invites you to embrace the outdoors.
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