The best road cycling routes in Chugach National Forest
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riders
4
rides
Road cycling routes in Chugach National Forest traverse a vast landscape characterized by jagged mountains, expansive glaciers, and dramatic coastal fjords. The region encompasses diverse ecosystems, from temperate rainforests to boreal woods, offering varied backdrops for cyclists. Routes often parallel scenic highways, providing views of glacial waters, pristine lakes, and opportunities for wildlife observation. This environment presents a unique blend of physical challenge and natural features for road cyclists.
Best road cycling routes in Chugach National Forest
- The most popularβ¦
Last updated: July 7, 2026
40
riders
48.5km
02:01
330m
330m
The Bird to Gird Pathway offers an exceptional road cycling experience along the scenic Turnagain Arm, treating you to continuous, spectacular views of mountains, glaciers, and the ocean. You'll rideβ¦
6
riders
37.5km
01:35
200m
200m
Cycle the easy 23.3-mile Seward Highway & Exit Glacier Road in Kenai Fjords National Park, offering views of Exit Glacier.
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1
riders
67.4km
03:26
260m
260m
The road cycling route from Girdwood to Portage Lake offers an immersive Alaskan experience, tracing the dramatic shores of Turnagain Arm with the Chugach Mountains as your constant backdrop. You'llβ¦
4
riders
24.2km
01:33
560m
560m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5
riders
120km
05:25
980m
980m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Other adventures in Chugach National Forest
Tips from the Community
Once upon a time, you could see Portage Glacier from this viewpoint. Now it has receded behind a corner of the mountains, so from here you can only see the lake left behind by the glacier, and every so often a few icebergs might still float by. Still, the lake itself is wildly beautiful and the small visitor center nearby is interesting to visit... if it's open. More information here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/chugach/recarea/?recid=71946
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As you run past Taku Lake, keep an eye out for kayakers, assorted waterfowl, and maybe even river otters in the lake. The multiuse trail here is paved and has only mild inclines, but you might want to keep an eye out for flying fishhooks from people fishing from the shore. (Most of the time they are pretty good about watching out for trail users before they cast their hook into the water, but not always.)
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This state park features scenic trails along the bay and through the hills. It's a perfect spot to relax, enjoy a picnic, and take in the beautiful surroundings. Chugach State Park is the third-largest state park in the United States, covering an area of over 495,000 acres.
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This trail goes alongside the road next to Turnagain Arm. It's 13 miles long and great for biking, running, or walking. You'll see beautiful views of the water and mountains. The pathway passes by Chugach State Park and offers a chance to spot wildlife like whales and mountain goats. You can learn about the area's geology from signs along the trail. Plus, it connects to other paths in Girdwood, Bird, and Indian. There are places to rest and have a picnic too.
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This rest stop along the bayfront provides educational displays recounting the impactful 1964 earthquake. The quake submerged the initial Girdwood townsite, leading to its relocation. The earthquake triggered a massive tsunami that caused extensive damage and loss of life along the Pacific Ocean coast, including Alaska, Hawaii, and North America's west coast. Tsunami waves reached heights of over 100 feet (30 meters) in some areas.
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Explore the remains of Portage, a ghost town left in the wake of the 1964 Alaska earthquake. The sinking ground submerged most of the town underwater. Today, you can see the ruins of a few buildings and a "ghost forest" of dead trees flooded by saltwater. Portage now serves as a junction for the Seward Highway, Alaska Railroad, Portage Glacier park, and the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel to Whittier.
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Experience an awe-inspiring ride via the Seward Highway. Marvel at the magnificent landscapes for about two hours as you pass between Turnagain Arm's dramatic shores and the towering peaks of the Chugach Mountains. Your journey continues through the Kenai Peninsula, renowned for its range of outdoor activities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in Chugach National Forest?
This guide currently features 4 road cycling routes in Chugach National Forest, offering a range of experiences from easy to difficult.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Chugach National Forest?
The optimal time for road cycling in Chugach National Forest is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to September). During these months, roads are generally clear of snow, and the weather is milder, allowing for comfortable rides and access to scenic areas. The long daylight hours of summer also provide ample time for exploration.
Are there family-friendly road cycling options in Chugach National Forest?
Yes, Chugach National Forest offers routes suitable for families. The Seward Highway & Exit Glacier Road is an easy 23.3-mile path that guides cyclists past lakes and alongside glaciers, providing an accessible scenic ride. Additionally, the Trail of Blue Ice in Portage Valley is known for being flat and family-friendly.
What kind of scenery can I expect while road cycling in Chugach National Forest?
Road cycling in Chugach National Forest offers incredibly diverse and dramatic scenery. You'll encounter jagged mountains, expansive glaciers like Exit Glacier, and stunning coastal views along Turnagain Arm. Routes traverse temperate rainforests, boreal woods, and alpine tundras, with opportunities to see pristine lakes such as Portage Lake and glacial rivers.
Are there any challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Chugach National Forest offers routes with significant elevation gain. The route McHugh Falls and Overlook β Beluga Point loop from Winchester Heights is classified as difficult, covering 73.5 miles with over 1,000 meters of elevation gain, providing a demanding yet rewarding experience.
Can I expect to see wildlife while road cycling?
Chugach National Forest is rich in wildlife, and road cyclists often have opportunities to spot animals directly from the roadside. Common sightings include Dall sheep, mountain goats, moose, and various bird species like eagles. Along coastal sections, particularly near Turnagain Arm, you might even see beluga whales.
Are there paved bike paths or dedicated cycling lanes in the Chugach National Forest?
Yes, the region features dedicated paved bike paths. The Bird to Gird Pathway is a popular, traffic-free paved path hugging the Turnagain Arm. Other sections of the Seward Highway also have dedicated paved paths or wide shoulders, such as near Hope and Seward, providing safer and smoother riding experiences.
What are some notable landmarks or points of interest along the road cycling routes?
Along the road cycling routes, you can explore several natural landmarks. Highlights include the impressive Exit Glacier, the scenic Portage Lake, and the powerful Russian River Falls, known for bear viewing. The Harding Icefield Viewpoint also offers breathtaking panoramic vistas.
Are there any circular road cycling routes in the area?
Yes, there are circular options available. For instance, the Golden View Drive Pathway loop from Shangri-La Estates offers a moderate 15-mile loop, allowing you to start and end your ride in the same location.
Where can I find amenities like cafes or restrooms near the road cycling trails?
Communities like Girdwood, Hope, and Seward serve as access points to the forest and offer various amenities. Girdwood, in particular, is a good base with cafes, restaurants, and other services. Along the Seward Highway, you'll find occasional pull-offs and visitor centers, such as the Begich Boggs Visitor Center in Portage Valley, which provide facilities and information.
What is the general difficulty level of road cycling in Chugach National Forest?
Road cycling in Chugach National Forest offers a range of difficulty levels. You can find easy, relatively flat paths like sections of the Seward Highway and the Trail of Blue Ice. There are also moderate routes, such as the Bird to Gird Pathway and Girwood to Portage Lake, which include some elevation changes. For experienced cyclists, there are difficult routes with significant climbs.
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