The best running trails in Far North Bicentennial Park
5.0
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230
runners
34
runs
Jogging routes in Far North Bicentennial Park traverse over 4,000 acres of diverse terrain, making it Anchorage's largest park. The landscape features extensive networks of trails winding through spruce and birch forests, alongside creeks, and near small lakes. Runners can find paths ranging from flat and gentle to moderate and steep, often with good footing on well-packed dirt or gravel. The park offers varied challenges, including rolling hills and mountain views, providing a natural escape within the city.
Best jogging routes in Far North Bicentennial Park
- The most popular jogging route is Campbell Airstrip 5k trail loop, a 3.1 miles (5.0 km) trail that takes 36 minutes to complete. This path is known for its mostly flat, straight dirt and gravel surface, ideal for speed work.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Mountains to Sea Trail, a moderate 9.3 miles (15.0 km) path. This route winds through varied terrain, including sections of spruce and birch forests.
- Local runners also love the Wolverine Peak via Basher Trail, a 9.4 miles (15.2 km) trail leading through mountainous terrain with significant elevation gain, often completed in about 3 hours 1 minute.
- Jogging in Far North Bicentennial Park is defined by spruce and birch forests, creeks, and rolling hills with mountain views. The extensive network offers options for various ability levels, from easy loops to challenging climbs.
- The routes in Far North Bicentennial Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 1 review. More than 200 runners have used komoot to explore Far North Bicentennial Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
11
runners
15.2km
03:01
1,070m
1,070m
Prepare for a challenging jogging adventure on Wolverine Peak via Basher Trail, a difficult route that spans 9.4 miles (15.2 km) and climbs a significant 3497 feet (1066 metres). You can expect this strenuous journey to take around 3 hours and 1 minute to complete. The trail starts by winding through low forested hills and open meadows, offering a wilder feel before narrowing to a singletrack path through spruce groves and eventually opening up into expansive tundra. The ultimate reward is reaching Wolverine Peak, where you'll find sweeping panoramic views of the entire Anchorage bowl, extending across the inlet to the distant Aleutian and Alaska ranges. This route provides a dramatic shift in scenery from dense forest to vast mountain vistas.
When planning your visit, be aware that conditions can vary greatly with the seasons. The Basher Trail offers a quieter starting point compared to other access points, but in winter, heavy snow can make the path difficult to follow, even though lower sections often see enough traffic to be packed down. Always check current trail conditions before you head out, as the terrain can range from dirt and mud to snow and ice depending on the time of year. This preparation ensures you are ready for whatever the trail presents.
What sets this route apart is its unique progression from a more secluded, forested beginning to the exposed, high-alpine environment of Wolverine Peak. Unlike other access points, the Basher Trail immerses you in moose-inhabited meadows early on, creating a distinct sense of wilderness. The journey culminates in those unobstructed, far-reaching views from the summit, making the demanding climb well worth the effort for anyone seeking a truly memorable jogging experience in Chugach State Park.
9
runners
15.0km
01:44
110m
110m
Prepare for a diverse jogging experience on the Mountains to Sea Trail, a moderate route that takes you through varied terrain within Far North Bicentennial Park. You'll cover 9.3 miles (15.0 km) and gain 351 feet (107 metres) in elevation, offering a good workout that typically takes around 1 hour and 44 minutes to complete. As you jog, you'll encounter a mix of natural surfaces and possibly some greenways, providing a dynamic landscape for your run. Keep an eye out for scenic views, especially along the sections that merge with the Campbell Airstrip Trail, where the surroundings open up to offer glimpses of natural beauty. This trail is designed for a sustained run, allowing you to immerse yourself in the park's atmosphere.
The Mountains to Sea Trail is conveniently located within Far North Bicentennial Park in Anchorage, Alaska. You will find parking generally available at various trailheads throughout the park, ensuring easy access to the route. Before heading out, it's always a good idea to check local park resources for the most current conditions and any specific advisories that might affect your visit. Planning ahead ensures a smooth and enjoyable jogging experience.
This particular route, while named the Mountains to Sea Trail, offers a distinct local Alaskan experience within the park, rather than spanning vast distances. It cleverly incorporates segments of other well-known paths, such as the Tour of Anchorage Trail and the Campbell Airstrip Trail, creating a unique blend for your run. This integration provides a varied journey, allowing you to explore different facets of the park's trail system in one continuous effort.
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5
runners
11.3km
01:59
620m
620m
Prepare for a challenging jogging experience on the Near Point Trail, a difficult route spanning 7.0 miles (11.3 km). You will gain 2032 feet (619 metres) in elevation, typically taking around 1 hour and 58 minutes to complete. The lower sections wind through a leafy forest, which can sometimes be muddy, before opening up into a powerline clearing. As you climb higher, you will leave the tree line behind, revealing expansive views of Anchorage, the ocean, and distant Chugach peaks from Near Point Summit.
The Near Point Trail is conveniently located as one of the closest Chugach Peaks to Anchorage, making it an excellent choice for an after-work jog or a dedicated training run. Dogs are welcome on the route, so you can bring your canine companion along. This trail is also notable for being one of the first in the area to melt out in the spring, allowing for an early start to your jogging season.
This route offers a dynamic shift in scenery, transitioning from dense forest to open alpine vistas. The varied terrain keeps your run engaging, providing both shaded sections and exposed climbs with rewarding panoramic views. It is a popular choice for those seeking a rigorous workout combined with stunning natural beauty, making it a standout option among the Chugach trails.
5.0
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3
runners
6.31km
00:42
30m
30m
Jog this 3.9-mile (6.3 km) moderate route in Far North Bicentennial Park, offering Chugach Mountain views and potential wildlife sightings.
3
runners
5.00km
00:36
20m
20m
An easy 3.1-mile jogging loop through spruce forests in Anchorage's Campbell Tract, offering wildlife sightings and Chugach Mountain views.
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Tips from the Community
You won't find any big terrain features here. Instead, this is a broad multi-use trail that connects the trail system around Service High School with the Campbell Tract trails, and further beyond into Anchorage. It's also part of the route known as the "Tour of Anchorage." Technically the Tour is an annual ski marathon, but its route is very popular for year-round recreation, and if you don't mind pedaling on snow there is even a fat-tire bike section in the race.
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This trail is broad and mostly hardened gravel with spots of pavement. Overall, it serves to connect neighborhoods on the east side of Anchorage with the greater trail network, but it such a lovely ride that it's become a bit of a sensation after opening just this year.
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Although this stretch of trail isn't paved, it's hard-packed gravel that is still good for a relaxed bike ride. Make sure you stay off the actual airstrip, which is also hardened gravel (but much larger).
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The Tour of Anchorage is a cross-country ski marathon that takes place every March, linking together a series of trails across the city. Those trails aren't just for skiing, though. They're designated for multi-use all year round, and are a core part of recreation throughout Anchorage. This stretch of trail is wide, well-packed dirt โ translation, you have good footing and won't get crowded by brush โ and sports only rolling hills, making it a great place to stretch your legs for a run.
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The run up Near Point is relatively short and veyr steep, along on a narrow footpath. It's also thoroughly fun, as long as you pay close attention to your routing to avoid a massive mud pit partway up its slopes.
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Yes, people really do run up Wolverine Peak, one of the most prominent mountains in the skyline around Anchorage. But this is no spur-of-the-moment jog: It comes with a punishing 3,625 feet (1,105ย m) of elevation gain on a narrow, dirt footpath that is sometimes steep enough that you might find yourself slipping and sliding on loose dirt.
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It's not often that you find an arrow-straight dirt and gravel trail that's mostly flat โ but that's exactly what you get here, as the running and walking trail parallels Campbell Airstrip. Great for running flat sprints. Campbell Airstrip is a hardened gravel airstrip that serves as part of the City of Anchorage's emergency resources. Even though it's not in frequent use you should still treat it as an active airstrip and stay off the airstrip itself, as planes sometimes do land and take off here.
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The Chugach Foothills Trail is really just a connector, meant to improve trail access from East Anchorage. But it's really quite lovely in its own right. Its mix of hard-packed gravel, dirt and the occasional bit of pavement makes for good running, and the wide trail is good for those who might feel nervous about running on narrower, more brushy trails. With that said, watch out for fast-moving bikers who are out to enjoy the trail too, and can really get moving fast along its relatively straight length.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Far North Bicentennial Park?
Far North Bicentennial Park offers a vast network of trails. On komoot, you can find over 30 dedicated running routes, ranging from easy loops to challenging climbs, ensuring options for all skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the running routes in Far North Bicentennial Park?
The park features diverse terrain, from flat and gentle paths to moderate and steep sections. Many trails have good footing on well-packed dirt or gravel, winding through spruce and birch forests, alongside creeks, and near small lakes. You'll encounter rolling hills and enjoy mountain views.
Are there any easy running routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there are several easy options. The Campbell Airstrip 5k trail loop is a popular choice, known for its mostly flat, straight dirt and gravel path, perfect for a gentle run or family outing. The park has 1 easy route listed on komoot.
Can I bring my dog on the running trails in Far North Bicentennial Park?
Far North Bicentennial Park is generally dog-friendly, but rules regarding leashes and waste removal apply. It's always best to check local park regulations or signage at trailheads for specific guidelines to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
What are some scenic viewpoints or natural attractions along the routes?
While running, you can enjoy serene views of quiet ponds and streams, and observe the seasonal beauty of the spruce and birch forests. Trails like the Spencer Loop offer views of Anchorage, Cook Inlet, and even Denali on clear days. The park also features the Whitewater Gorge and Campbell Creek.
Are there any challenging routes for experienced runners seeking a workout?
Absolutely. For those looking for a challenge, routes like Wolverine Peak via Basher Trail offer significant elevation gain and mountainous terrain, providing a strenuous workout. There are 6 difficult routes available on komoot.
How accessible is Far North Bicentennial Park by public transport or car?
The park is easily accessible from midtown Anchorage. Several trailheads, including Abbott Loop Community Park Trailhead, Smoke Jumper Trailhead, and Campbell Airstrip Trailhead, offer various entry points and parking options. Public transport access may vary, so checking local bus routes is advisable.
What wildlife might I encounter while jogging, and what safety precautions should I take?
The park is home to abundant wildlife, including moose, black and brown bears, bald eagles, and foxes. While enjoying the scenery, be aware of your surroundings, especially during salmon runs along Campbell Creek when bear activity can increase. Carry bear spray and know how to use it, and make noise to avoid surprising animals.
Are there any circular running routes in Far North Bicentennial Park?
Yes, many of the park's extensive trails are designed as loops or can be combined to create circular routes. The Campbell Airstrip 5k trail loop is a prime example of a popular circular option.
What is the best time of year to go running in Far North Bicentennial Park?
The park offers year-round recreational opportunities. Summer and fall provide vibrant landscapes and generally clear trails. Winter running is also popular, with some sections of trails even lit at night. Always check current trail conditions, especially for snow or ice, and be prepared for seasonal weather changes.
Are permits required to jog in Far North Bicentennial Park?
No, permits are generally not required for jogging or general recreational use of the trails in Far North Bicentennial Park. It is a public park open for enjoyment.
What do other runners say about the trails in Far North Bicentennial Park?
The running routes in Far North Bicentennial Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Runners often praise the park's diverse terrain, well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to experience nature and wildlife within the city limits.
Are there any routes that connect to other parks or trail systems?
Yes, Far North Bicentennial Park offers convenient trail connections to the adjacent Chugach State Park, providing even more extensive outdoor adventures and longer running possibilities for those looking to explore beyond the park's boundaries.
Most popular routes in Far North Bicentennial Park
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