The best traffic-free bike rides in Matanuska-Susitna Borough
4.9
(67)
1,259
riders
36
rides
If you've ever tried to plan touring cycling in Matanuska-Susitna Borough, you know how overwhelming the options can be. With so many routes, it's tough to tell which are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it β the last thing you want is to spend precious riding time on a route that doesn't deliver.
That's where we come in. Our komoot community has ridden, mapped, and reviewed countless routes across the Mat-Su Valley,β¦
Last updated: May 27, 2026
5.0
(9)
216
riders
34.0km
02:07
210m
210m
The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail offers a dynamic touring cycling experience, transitioning from urban Anchorage views to continuous coastal vistas along Knik Arm and Cook Inlet. You'll pedal past theβ¦
5.0
(11)
94
riders
52.1km
03:04
270m
270m
The Moose Loop via Ship Creek Trail offers a fantastic touring cycling overview of Anchorage, combining urban exploration with stunning natural scenery. This moderate route, spanning 32.3 miles (52.1 km)β¦
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4.5
(2)
16
riders
20.1km
01:11
80m
80m
The Ship Creek and Chester Creek Trail Loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience, weaving through Anchorage's varied landscapes. You'll pedal along paved paths, enjoying urban vistas of downtown andβ¦
15
riders
16.4km
01:34
110m
110m
The Eklutna Lakeside Trail offers a truly picturesque touring cycling experience, tracing the western shore of Eklutna Lake with its striking turquoise glacial waters. As you pedal along the packedβ¦
6
riders
35.7km
02:05
150m
150m
The Mini Moose loop offers a unique touring cycling experience through Anchorage, blending urban greenways with natural scenery. This moderate route, spanning 22.2 miles (35.7 km) with a gentle 485β¦
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Tips from the Community
Significant non-motorized trail improvements have been made this summer (no more washed-out segments). Lakeside path is open to just beyond 5 miles as crews continue trail work as of 8/29/24)
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The paved trail makes a sharp bend here, offering some views toward the marshland at the bottom of the bluff. There's also a small, unpaved spur trail near here that leads to a sand beach that isn't rideable, but you can always walk your bike or lock it to a nearby bench.
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This trail is actually a dirt road, and as long as conditions are dry it's surprisingly decent biking as long as you don't have skinny road tires. The trail actually continues to some primitive campgrounds past the far end of the lake and is great for bikepacking, but if you're not on a mountain bike you might want to leave yourself an out to turn around not along after crossing Bold Creek (on a bridge). Watch out for ATV traffic that is allowed on the road/trail Sunday through Wednesday. There are a series of foot- and bike-traffic-only detours from the road that help separate you from the motorized traffic on those days, but those side trails are sometimes washed out, so you if you go that way there could be stretches where you have to dismount your bike and push it.
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This is the gravel shore of Eklutna Lake, which is absolutely lousy for riding on most bikes but wonderful for a pre- or post-ride picnic and marveling at the lake, which really is a gem of the greater Anchorage area. Interestingly, it's also the drinking water reservoir for Anchorage.
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You may see a lot of happy, loose dogs around here, because nowadays University Lake is an off-leash dog park. It's still a lovely green space bordering on some of the city's more popular commuter and leisure trails, though.
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This section of paved multi-use trail runs from Dowling Road to Lake Otis Boulevard. But when taken as a whole, the Campbell Creek Trail runs northeast/southwest through almost the entirety of Anchorage.
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The Fish Creek Trail is an unexpected green space. The paved multi-use trail runs straight through a lovely, wooded greenbelt, set in the middle of some of Anchorage's more densely populated neighborhoods.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in Matanuska-Susitna Borough?
The Matanuska-Susitna Borough offers over 35 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes. These routes range from easy, family-friendly paths to more challenging, longer distances, ensuring options for various skill levels.
Are there any easy, no-traffic touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, the region has many easy routes perfect for beginners and families. For example, the Ship Creek and Chester Creek Trail Loop is an easy 20 km ride with minimal elevation gain. Another great option is the Eklutna Lakeside Trail, offering a scenic 16 km ride along the lake.
What kind of scenic views can I expect on these routes?
The Matanuska-Susitna Valley is known for its dramatic landscapes, bordered by the Alaska, Talkeetna, and Chugach Mountains. You can expect stunning views of towering peaks, vast glacial valleys, and fertile plains. Many routes offer glimpses of major rivers like the Matanuska and Knik, and some even provide distant views of the Matanuska Glacier or panoramic vistas from points like Bodenburg Butte.
Are there any loop routes for touring cyclists?
Yes, several loop routes are available. The Moose Loop via Ship Creek Trail is a moderate 52 km route offering diverse scenery and city greenways. For a shorter option, consider the Mini Moose loop, a 35 km moderate ride.
What attractions or points of interest can I visit along the no-traffic cycling routes?
Many routes pass by or are close to natural attractions. You can find beautiful lakes like Byers Lake, which features a loop trail and campground, or Red Shirt Lake. The Matanuska Greenbelt trails wind through forests, offering a picturesque experience, especially in the fall. The region also boasts the impressive Matanuska Glacier, the largest accessible glacier in Alaska.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Matanuska-Susitna Borough?
The best time for touring cycling in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough is typically from late spring through early fall (May to September). During these months, the weather is milder, trails are clear of snow, and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Fall offers particularly stunning views as the leaves change color.
Can I expect to see wildlife on these no-traffic routes?
Yes, the Matanuska-Susitna Borough is rich in wildlife. Cyclists often spot moose, various bird species, and occasionally bears, especially in areas like the Palmer Hay Flats State Game Refuge. The extensive trail networks, particularly in the Matanuska Greenbelt, wind through natural habitats, increasing your chances of wildlife encounters. Always maintain a safe distance and carry bear spray.
Are there options for public transport access to these cycling routes?
While some routes, particularly those closer to Anchorage like the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, might have more direct public transport access, options within the Matanuska-Susitna Borough itself can be more limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules or consider driving to trailheads, especially for routes further afield.
Where can I find parking for these no-traffic bike trails?
Many popular trailheads and recreation areas throughout the Matanuska-Susitna Borough offer designated parking facilities. For example, areas like Hatcher Pass Recreation Area, the Matanuska Greenbelt, and access points for trails around Palmer and Wasilla typically have parking. It's recommended to check specific trail information for detailed parking locations before your ride.
What do other touring cyclists say about the no-traffic routes in Matanuska-Susitna Borough?
The touring cycling routes in Matanuska-Susitna Borough are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the quiet and well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to immerse oneself in Alaska's wilderness without vehicle traffic.
Are there any long-distance no-traffic touring cycling routes?
For those seeking longer rides, the Matanuska-Susitna Borough offers options like the Moose Loop via Ship Creek Trail, which covers over 52 km. While many routes are designed for day trips, the interconnectedness of some trail systems, such as parts of the Matanuska Greenbelt, allows for extended exploration.
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